aplastar
/aplasˈtaɾ/
To squish in Spanish is aplastar.
The verb aplastar is used to describe the action of squeezing, compressing or crushing something. While it covers the general idea of squishing, it often carries a stronger connotation of flattening something completely, such as an insect or a metal can.
Meaning: to squeeze, compress, or crush (verb)
Which one should you use?
If you want to express squishing in the sense of squeezing something with your hands, such as a piece of fruit or a sponge, without necessarily flattening it, estrujar is often a more precise choice than aplastar. Additionally, if you want to convey the idea of squashing in a less formal manner, you can use chafar.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some Latin American countries, the verb pisar can be used to convey the idea of squishing or stepping on something.
How does it change in a sentence?
The past participle of aplastar is aplastado, which is used to describe something that has been squished or crushed or to form compound tenses.
How do you pronounce it?
/aplasˈtaɾ/
Did you know?
- In Spain, calling someone a plasta is a common way to say they are an incredibly annoying or boring person. It stems from the idea of someone being as dull and thick as a flattened lump of dough.
- You can use the slang verb chafar to say you have 'squished' or ruined a surprise or a plan. It moves the concept of squishing from a physical action to a metaphorical disappointment.
- In certain Latin American regions, the verb pisar is used to mean 'to squish' even if no foot was involved in the action. This differs from the literal English meaning of 'to step on'.
Examples in context
- Al moverme, ¡cuidado de no aplastar esa torta!Be careful not to squash that cake while I'm moving!
- Tus abrazos me hacen sentir aplastujado de alegría.Your hugs make me feel squished with joy.
- ¡Cuidado, no vayas a chafar ese juguete!Be careful not to squash that toy!
- Tengo cuidado de no pisar los caracoles en el jardín.I'm careful not to squish the snails in the garden.
- Quisiera machucar estas papas para hacer puré.I would like to squish these potatoes to make mashed potatoes.
- aplastó la lataHe/she squished the can
- No dejes que el camión vaya a aplastar las cajas.Don't let the truck crush the boxes.
- Es fácil aplastar una lata de refresco.It is easy to crush a soda can.
- Ten cuidado de no aplastar las flores con tus pies.Be careful not to squash the flowers with your feet.
Example conversation
Daniel and Sofía are packing a suitcase.
- DanielPon los zapatos abajo para no aplastar la ropa.Put the shoes at the bottom so you don't squish the clothes.
- SofíaTienes razón, Daniel. Lo voy a mover.You're right, Daniel. I'll move it.
- DanielAhora ya no vamos a aplastar nada.Now we aren't going to squish anything.
- SofíaPerfecto, ya podemos cerrar la maleta.Perfect, now we can close the suitcase.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry aplastar, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
