si te queda el saco, póntelo
The phrase "if the shoe fits" is translated into Spanish as si te queda el saco, póntelo.
This idiom is used to suggest that if a criticism or description applies to someone, they should accept it.
Did you know?
- The word saco in this phrase can refer to a 'sack' or a 'jacket' depending on the region, meaning the 'fit' could be an oversized bag or a formal coat.
- The word saco comes from the Latin saccus, which was borrowed from the Ancient Greek sákkos and originally derived from a Semitic language.
- While the English version is often a general observation, the Spanish si te queda el saco, póntelo is structured as a direct command to the person being criticized.
Examples in context
- Si te queda el saco, póntelo.If the shoe fits, wear it.This sentence demonstrates how to use si te queda el saco, póntelo.Tatoeba #1573657 by alexmarcelo, translation #1892936 by CM
- Si te queda el saco, póntelo, que no miento.If the shoe fits, wear it, because I am not lying.
- Ella se ofendió, pero si te queda el saco, póntelo.She got offended, but if the shoe fits, wear it.
Example conversation
Alejandro is defending himself after Elena suggests he is being lazy.
- ElenaEres un poco vago últimamente, Alejandro.You are being a bit lazy lately, Alejandro.
- Alejandro¡Eso no es cierto! No soy perezoso.That's not true! I am not lazy.
- ElenaBueno, si te queda el saco, póntelo.Well, if the shoe fits, wear it.
- AlejandroNo me parece justo que me digas eso.I don't think it's fair for you to say that to me.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries el, queda, saco, si, te, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
