dale
/ˈdale/
The English phrase "hit him" can be translated into Spanish as dale, which is an encouraging expression used to tell someone to go ahead or start doing something.
Which one should you use?
dale is used as an encouraging command to proceed, whereas Golpéelo and Métele un golpe refer specifically to the physical act of striking someone.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, the expression Ponle una zurra is used specifically to mean "give him a thrashing".
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈdale/
Did you know?
- In many Spanish-speaking countries, you can use dale as a standalone sentence to mean 'OK' or 'Agreed', acting more like a verbal nod than a command to strike.
- The Italian expression daje is a linguistic sibling to the Spanish dale, sharing the same root of 'give' followed by a dative pronoun.
- Depending on the tone and context, dale can shift from a supportive cheer to an expression of impatience, similar to saying 'come on' in English.
Examples in context
- Juan hizo un comentario despectivo, así que Pedro le dio un golpe.Juan made a derogatory comment, so Pedro hit him.
- ¡El matón se acercó demasiado y María le metió un golpe!The bully came too close, and Maria hit him!
- Después de meses de acoso, le dieron una tunda al agresor.After months of harassment, they gave the aggressor a beating.
- Si alguien intenta hacerte daño, defiéndete y ponle una zurra.If someone tries to harm you, defend yourself and give them a thrashing.
- Si quieres empezar la presentación, dale.If you want to start the presentation, go ahead.
- Dale con ese proyecto ahora mismo.Go ahead with that project right now.
- No tengas miedo, dale.Don't be afraid, go for it.
Example conversation
Daniel and María are talking about starting a new exercise routine.
- Daniel¿Debería empezar a entrenar hoy?Should I start training today?
- María¡Claro, dale sin dudarlo!Of course, go for it without hesitation!
- DanielEstá bien, lo intentaré.Alright, I will try it.
- María¡Tú puedes, Daniel!You can do it, Daniel!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry dale, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries dale, CC BY-SA 4.0.
