picos y valles
/pikos i baʝes/from spelling rules
picos y valles is the Spanish phrase for "peaks and valleys".
This phrase is used to describe a series of alternating high and low points in a situation or over a period of time.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is a literal translation of "peaks and valleys": picos means peaks or summits, and valles means valleys.
Did you know?
- Depending on the country, pico is used as a slang term for a 'kiss' or a 'quick peck'.
- In Spanish, the word pico can refer to a mountain peak but it also means a bird's 'beak'.
- While 'picos y valles' is understood, a Spanish speaker is much more likely to use the phrase 'altibajos' to describe the ups and downs of life or a career.
Examples in context
- La economía tiene sus picos y valles.The economy has its peaks and valleys.
- El mercado financiero presenta constantes picos y valles.The financial market presents constant peaks and valleys.
Example conversation
Mateo and Sofía are discussing their freelance business.
- MateoEl negocio ha tenido picos y valles este año.The business has had peaks and valleys this year.
- SofíaSí, algunos meses fueron muy difíciles.Yes, some months were very difficult.
- MateoPero ahora estamos en un punto alto.But now we are at a high point.
- SofíaEspero que se mantenga así, Mateo.I hope it stays that way, Mateo.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
