sostén esto
/sosten esto/from spelling rules
In Spanish, the phrase for 'hold this' is sostén esto.
This phrase is a request for someone to grip or support an object with their hands.
What does it mean word for word?
The word esto is a neuter demonstrative pronoun meaning 'this' when referring to an unspecified object or situation.
Which one should you use?
While sostén esto implies supporting the weight of an object, sujeta esto is often used when the speaker wants someone to grip or secure an object in place.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form sostén esto uses the informal imperative (tú) command form of the verb 'sostener'. To say 'hold this' more politely or to a stranger, use the formal imperative sostenga esto.
Did you know?
- The word sostén is also used as a noun in many Spanish-speaking countries to refer to a 'bra' or 'brassiere'.
- The word sostén is related to the French word soutien-gorge, which literally translates to 'breast-support'.
- In some contexts, sostén can refer to the emotional or financial 'support' of a family, such as the person who provides the income.
Examples in context
- Sostén esto.Hold this.This sentence is useful for practicing the phrase sostén esto.Tatoeba #4506022 by cueyayotl, translation #1972645 by CK
- Sostenga esto mientras busco mi billetera.Hold this while I search for my wallet.
- ¿Podría usted sostener esto por un momento, por favor?Could you hold this for a moment, please?
- Sostén esto un momento, por favor.Hold this for a moment, please.
- Sostén esto para que yo pueda abrir la puerta.Hold this so I can open the door.
Example conversation
Lucía is helping Alejandro carry groceries.
- LucíaSostén esto un segundo.Hold this for a second.
- AlejandroClaro, yo lo sostengo.Sure, I'll hold it.
- LucíaGracias, ahora voy por las llaves.Thanks, now I'll go for the keys.
- AlejandroNo hay problema, Lucía.No problem, Lucía.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries esto, sostén, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
