arcadas
/aɾkadas/from spelling rules
The English phrase "retching" is translated into Spanish as arcadas.
arcadas is the noun used to describe the act of retching.
Meaning: the act of retching (noun)
Which one should you use?
The plural form arcadas is the standard way to refer to the act of retching, but the singular form arcada can be used to describe a single instance of the action.
How does it change in a sentence?
In Spanish, you do not 'do' retching. Instead, you use the verb tener (to have) with the noun arcadas to express the action.
How do you pronounce it?
/aɾkadas/
Did you know?
- The word arcada shares a root with arco meaning 'arch', reflecting the arching motion the body makes during a gag reflex.
- In many Spanish-speaking regions, the word arcada can also refer to a structural arch in architecture.
- The phrase tener arcadas can be used figuratively in politics or social commentary to describe a visceral reaction to a corrupt or repulsive policy.
Examples in context
- El olor desagradable le hizo dar arcadas.The unpleasant smell made him retch.
- El paciente tenía arcadas constantes.The patient was having constant retching fits.
- No puedo parar las arcadas.I cannot stop the retching.
- Tuvo varias arcadas después de comer.He had several bouts of retching after eating.
- Las arcadas me dejan muy cansado.The retching leaves me very tired.
Example conversation
Alejandro and Elena are discussing a bad smell in the kitchen.
- AlejandroHuele muy mal aquí dentro.It smells very bad in here.
- ElenaSí, me están dando arcadas.Yes, I'm having retching.
- AlejandroAbre la ventana rápido, Elena.Open the window quickly, Elena.
- ElenaYa lo estoy haciendo, Alejandro.I'm already doing it, Alejandro.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
