acuéstate y vete a dormir
/akwestate i bete a doɾmiɾ/from spelling rules
The English phrase 'lay down and go to sleep' is translated into Spanish as acuéstate y vete a dormir.
This phrase is used to give an instruction to someone to lie down in bed and begin sleeping. While the default form is common, other variations exist depending on the level of formality or the specific nuance of the instruction, such as settling in comfortably.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of two reflexive imperative verbs: acuéstate means 'lay yourself down' and vete means 'go yourself' (or 'go away').
Which one should you use?
The command acuéstate specifically refers to the act of getting into a bed or a lying position. This differs from túmbate, which is a more general command to lie down anywhere, such as on a floor or a sofa.
Did you know?
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, the command acuéstate is often paired with the phrase que descanses, wishing the person a restful sleep rather than just ordering them to bed.
- The verb dormir shares a common ancestor with the English word 'dormitory', which is a place specifically designed for sleeping.
- While acuéstate is a command for bed, in many Spanish-speaking cultures, a parent might use the softer a dormir to avoid sounding like they are barking an order.
Examples in context
- Por favor, acuéstese y duerma para una buena recuperación.Please lay down and go to sleep for a good recovery.
- Acuéstate y duerme, mañana tenemos un día emocionante.Lay down and go to sleep, tomorrow we have an exciting day ahead.
- Acuéstate y vete a dormir ahora mismo.Lay down and go to sleep right now.
- Estás muy cansado, así que acuéstate y vete a dormir.You are very tired, so lay down and go to sleep.
- Acuéstate y vete a dormir para descansar bien.Lay down and go to sleep to rest well.
Example conversation
Sofía is telling her tired brother Mateo to go to bed.
- SofíaMateo, parece que estás agotado.Mateo, it looks like you are exhausted.
- MateoSí, tengo mucho sueño.Yes, I am very sleepy.
- SofíaEntonces, acuéstate y vete a dormir.Then, lay down and go to sleep.
- MateoEstá bien, gracias Sofía.Okay, thanks Sofia.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries a, dormir, y, CC BY-SA 4.0.
