alzar la voz
/alθaɾ la boθ/from spelling rules
The English phrase 'speak out' is translated into Spanish as alzar la voz.
Alzar la voz is used when someone speaks up to defend a cause or express an opinion that might otherwise be suppressed.
Meaning: assert or promote one's opinion, to make one's thoughts known (verb)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase alzar la voz literally means 'to raise the voice'.
Which one should you use?
Do not confuse alzar la voz with gritar. While alzar la voz means to speak out or assert oneself, gritar refers specifically to the physical act of shouting or yelling loudly.
How does it change in a sentence?
As a verbal phrase, the verb alzar must be conjugated to match the subject, such as alzo la voz for 'I speak out'.
How do you pronounce it?
/alθaɾ la boθ/
Did you know?
- The verb alzar shares its root with the English word 'altitude'. Both come from the Latin altus, meaning 'high'.
- In Spanish, voz can refer to a person's physical voice or to a 'vote' in certain historical or formal contexts, linking the act of speaking out to the act of voting.
- In some regional dialects, using alzar la voz can be a subtle way to suggest someone is being bossy or authoritative, depending on the tone used.
Examples in context
- Es importante que usted hable con franqueza durante la reunión de negociosIt's important for you to speak openly during the business meeting.
- Le invitamos a expresar su opinión acerca de este temaWe invite you to express your opinion on this matter.
- Los participantes deberán manifestar su punto de vista sobre el tema en discusiónThe participants should express their point of view on the topic under discussion.
- No te preocupes, puedes hablar sin pelos en la lenguaDon't worry, you can speak your mind without holding back.
- En este debate, no tienes que morderte la lenguaIn this debate, you don't have to bite your tongue.
- Debes alzar la voz por tus derechos.You must speak out for your rights.
- Ella decidió alzar la voz contra la injusticia.She decided to speak out against the injustice.
- No tengas miedo de alzar la voz.Do not be afraid to speak out.
Example conversation
Javier and Sofía are discussing a problem at their workplace.
- JavierEl jefe no está escuchando nuestras quejas.The boss is not listening to our complaints.
- SofíaEntonces tenemos que alzar la voz juntos, Javier.Then we have to speak out together, Javier.
- JavierTienes razón, Sofía. No podemos callarnos más.You are right, Sofía. We cannot stay silent anymore.
- SofíaHablemos con Recursos Humanos mañana mismo.Let's talk to Human Resources tomorrow.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries alzar, la, voz, CC BY-SA 4.0.
