Guide: How to Say “Swept” in Spanish

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various ways to express the word “swept” in Spanish. Whether you’re looking for the formal expression or the more colloquial variations, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also provide you with useful tips, examples, and regional differences to ensure you have a thorough understanding of how to use this term. So, let’s dive in and discover how to say “swept” in Spanish!

Formal Ways to Say “Swept” in Spanish

In formal Spanish, there are several phrases you can use to convey the meaning of “swept.” Here are a few options you can consider:

1. Limpio – This is the most straightforward translation of “swept” in a formal context. It suggests cleanliness and tidiness resulting from sweeping. For instance:
   

   Mi hermana limpió todo el suelo con la escoba. (My sister swept the entire floor.)

2. Barrió – This word is the simple past tense form of the verb “barrer” (to sweep). It is commonly used when referring to someone who swept a specific area. For example:
   

   La señora barrió el patio esta mañana. (The lady swept the patio this morning.)

3. Realizó la limpieza – This phrase translates to “performed the cleaning” and is suitable for more formal or professional settings. It implies a thorough cleaning process that includes sweeping. Here’s an example:
   

   El conserje realizó la limpieza exhaustiva de todas las áreas. (The janitor performed a thorough cleaning of all the areas.)

Informal Ways to Say “Swept” in Spanish

Now, let’s explore some more colloquial and informal ways to express “swept” in Spanish. These options are commonly used in informal conversations among friends, family, or acquaintances.

1. Barrió todo – This phrase literally translates to “swept everything” and is a common colloquial expression. It implies a general sweeping action without specifying the exact area. Here’s an example:
   

   Lourdes barrió todo antes de que llegaras. (Lourdes swept everything before you arrived.)

2. Le dio una pasada con la escoba – This informal phrase means “gave it a brush with the broom” and is often used to describe a quick sweeping action. It suggests a less thorough cleaning process compared to the formal expressions. For instance:
   

   Víctor le dio una pasada con la escoba al cuarto de invitados. (Víctor gave the guest room a quick brush with the broom.)

3. Sacudió el polvo – Although it directly translates to “dusted off the dust,” this phrase is often used informally to mean “swept the dust away.” It is commonly used when referring to sweeping dust or dirt from surfaces. Here’s an example:
   

   Juan sacudió el polvo del alféizar de la ventana. (Juan swept the dust off the windowsill.)

Regional Variations

Spanish is a rich language with various regional variations, and it is important to note that certain terms or phrases can have different meanings or pronunciations based on the Spanish-speaking region. However, when it comes to the word “swept,” the differences are minimal. The previously mentioned formal and informal expressions are generally understood and used across different Spanish-speaking countries.

Tips and Examples

To help you further understand the usage of “swept” in Spanish, here are some additional tips and examples:

• Varying degrees of cleanliness: Keep in mind that different expressions may imply varying degrees of cleanliness or thoroughness. Words like “limpio” (clean) or “realizó la limpieza” (performed the cleaning) suggest a more thorough and complete sweeping action, while phrases like “barrió todo” (swept everything) or “le dio una pasada con la escoba” (gave it a brush with the broom) imply a less meticulous cleaning process.
• Use context clues: When encountering unfamiliar expressions or regional variations, it is helpful to rely on context clues to understand the meaning. Consider the situation, the cleaning actions being described, and the overall conversation to interpret the intended message correctly.
• Practice verb conjugation: To effectively use the phrase “swept” in Spanish, it is essential to understand the verb “barrer” (to sweep) and its conjugations. Familiarize yourself with the different tenses and forms of this verb to enhance your communication skills. Practice by creating sentences using various conjugations of “barrer.”

Now that you have a solid understanding of how to say “swept” in Spanish, you can confidently engage in conversations involving cleaning and household chores. Remember to practice and actively incorporate these phrases into your Spanish vocabulary to reinforce your language skills. ¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)