acarícialo
/akaɾiθjalo/from spelling rules
The English phrase "stroke it" can be translated into Spanish as acarícialo.
This phrase is used to instruct someone to move their hand gently over a person or animal to show affection.
What does it mean word for word?
The word consists of the imperative verb acaricia (stroke or caress) and the direct object pronoun lo (it or him).
Which one should you use?
While acarícialo implies a gentle and affectionate motion, you should use the verb rascar if the intention is to scratch an itch.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form of the phrase changes based on the gender and number of the object being stroked. If the object is a feminine noun, such as la gata (the female cat), use acaríciala. For a group of masculine or mixed-gender objects or animals, use the plural form acarícialos. If the group consists exclusively of feminine objects or animals, use acarícialas.
How do you pronounce it?
/akaɾiθjalo/
Did you know?
- The verb acariciar can be used to describe the way the sun or the wind touches your skin, not just human or animal contact. It turns a physical action into a poetic element of nature.
- If you are talking about a person, using acarícialo can sometimes carry a much more romantic or even sensual connotation than the simple English 'stroke it' might suggest in a casual setting.
- If you accidentally use the verb palpar instead of acariciar, a native speaker might think you are performing a medical exam or searching for a hidden object.
Examples in context
- Acarícialo con suavidad, es muy dócil.Stroke it gently, it's very docile.
- Acaricia eso, se sentirá bien.Stroke that, it will feel good.
- Acarícialo como sueles hacerlo.Stroke it as you usually do.
- Si el perro está nervioso, acarícialo suavemente.If the dog is nervous, stroke it gently.
- Acarícialo para que se sienta mejor.Stroke it so he feels better.
- Es un gatito muy tierno, acarícialo un poco.It is a very cute kitten, stroke it a little.
Example conversation
Alejandro and Lucía are looking at a puppy.
- AlejandroMira qué cachorro tan lindo.Look at such a cute puppy.
- LucíaSí, parece muy tranquilo.Yes, it seems very calm.
- AlejandroAcarícialo para que se sienta seguro.Stroke it so it feels safe.
- LucíaTienes razón, es muy dulce.You are right, it is very sweet.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
