no cabe
/no kabe/from spelling rules
In Spanish, "it doesn't fit" is translated as no cabe.
The phrase no cabe is used specifically when referring to physical dimensions and spatial capacity. For example, you would use it if an object is too large to go into a particular space, such as a box or if a person is too large for a specific seat.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the negation no and the third-person singular form of the verb caber, which means "to fit".
Which one should you use?
While no cabe describes a general lack of space, you can add an indirect object pronoun to specify who the object is not fitting. For example, no me cabe means "it doesn't fit me".
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico and certain other Latin American countries, the phrase No me cabe can be used to say "it doesn't fit".
How does it change in a sentence?
Adding an indirect object pronoun like me, te or le to the verb allows you to specify the person whom the object is not fitting.
Did you know?
- While no cabe describes physical space, Spanish speakers use a different verb, quedar, to say a piece of clothing 'doesn't fit' in terms of size or style, such as no me queda.
- In Spanish, the expression no caber en sí is used to describe someone who is overwhelmed by a strong emotion, such as joy or pride, similar to the English phrase 'bursting with' an emotion.
- In some contexts, particularly in Mexico, the phrase no me cabe can be used figuratively to mean 'I cannot grasp it' or 'I cannot believe it'. It describes an idea being too large to fit into one's mind.
Examples in context
- Ahí no cabe.It doesn't fit there.This sentence shows how to use no cabe to indicate that something cannot fit in a specific location.Tatoeba #7603460 by arh, translation #9524893 by DJ_Saidez
- No me queda bien este vestido.This dress doesn't fit me well.
- Estos pantalones no son de mi talla.These pants are not my size.
- Este traje no se ajusta a mis medidas.This suit doesn't fit my measurements.
- No me queda el sombrero.The hat doesn't fit me.
- El libro no entra en la mochila.The book doesn't fit in the backpack.
- No me cabe esta camisa.This shirt doesn't fit me.
- Ese libro no cabe en la maleta.That book doesn't fit in the suitcase.
- El mueble no cabe por la puerta.The piece of furniture doesn't fit through the door.
Example conversation
Daniel and Sofia are trying to put a box in a cupboard.
- DanielIntenta empujar la caja.Try to push the box.
- SofíaNo puedo, no cabe.I can't, it doesn't fit.
- DanielQuizás si la giras.Maybe if you turn it.
- SofíaSigue sin caber, Daniel.It still doesn't fit, Daniel.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
