chof
/t͡ʃof/from spelling rules
The English term swish in basketball can be translated into Spanish as chof.
This term refers to a successful basketball shot that goes through the hoop without touching the rim or the backboard.
Meaning: successful basketball shot that does not touch the rim or backboard (noun)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some Latin American countries, the word Zas can also be used to express the concept of a swish.
How do you pronounce it?
/tʃof/
Did you know?
- The word chof is an onomatopoeia that is used more broadly in Spanish to describe the sound of any object falling into water.
- While chof describes the sound, many Spanish-speaking commentators will simply use the English word 'swish' when broadcasting professional games. This reflects the heavy influence of American basketball culture on Spanish-language sports media.
- In many Spanish-speaking countries, the phrase limpia la red (clean the net) is used to describe a 'swish' shot. It describes the aesthetic perfection of the shot rather than the sound it makes.
Examples in context
- El vestido de seda provocaba un siseo sofisticado al pasarThe silk dress caused a sophisticated hissing sound when it passed by
- Las hojas secas producen un siseo al ser pisadasDry leaves make a swish when stepped on.
Example conversation
Javier and Elena are playing basketball at a park.
- Javier¡Mira mi tiro, Elena!Look at my shot, Elena!
- Elena¡Increíble, fue un chof!Incredible, it was a swish!
- JavierTengo mucha suerte hoy.I am very lucky today.
- ElenaNo es suerte, Javier, es talento.It's not luck, Javier, it's talent.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
