suelta el teléfono
/swelta el telefono/from spelling rules
The English phrase 'get off your phone' is translated into Spanish as suelta el teléfono.
This phrase is used as a command to tell someone to stop using their mobile device and pay attention. While suelta el teléfono literally means 'let go of the phone', it is a common way to tell someone to stop using their device.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase suelta el teléfono literally means 'let go of the phone'.
Which one should you use?
The phrase suelta el teléfono implies physically letting go of the device. You may also use deja el teléfono, which means 'leave the phone' and is a common way to say 'leave the phone alone' or 'stop using it'.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Latin America, you may specifically hear the informal phrase suelta el celular, por favor to ask someone to let go of their cellphone.
How does it change in a sentence?
To command a group of people to get off their phones, use the plural form suelten el teléfono.
Did you know?
- The verb soltar used in suelta el teléfono is the same word used for an animal being set free or a knot being untied.
- In many Spanish speaking cultures, using the word suelta can sound more urgent or aggressive than deja, as it literally demands the physical release of the object.
- The word teléfono comes from the Ancient Greek words têle, meaning 'far off', and phōnḗ, meaning 'voice'.
Examples in context
- ¡Suelta el teléfono y mírame!Get off your phone and look at me!
- Suelta el teléfono, estamos cenando.Get off your phone, we are having dinner.
- Por favor, suelta el teléfono un momento.Please, get off your phone for a moment.
Example conversation
Alejandro and Lucía are at a cafe, but Lucía is distracted by her device.
- AlejandroLucía, suelta el teléfono y presta atención.Lucía, get off your phone and pay attention.
- LucíaLo siento, Alejandro, solo es un mensaje rápido.I'm sorry, Alejandro, it's just a quick message.
- AlejandroSiempre estás con el móvil.You are always on your phone.
- LucíaTienes razón, ya lo guardo.You're right, I'll put it away now.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries el, suelta, teléfono, CC BY-SA 4.0.
