afilarse
/afilaɾse/from spelling rules
To taper is expressed in Spanish as afilarse.
The verb is used to describe something that becomes thinner or narrower toward one end.
Meaning: to become thinner or narrower at one end (verb)
How do you pronounce it?
/afilaɾse/
Did you know?
- The word afilado can be used as a slang term in some regions to describe someone who is very alert or 'on edge', similar to the English 'sharp'.
- The word afilado describes something that has tapered to a point, but it can also be used to describe a person's voice that is piercing or shrill.
- The verb afilar is occasionally used metaphorically to mean 'to prepare' or 'to hone' an argument or a plan before presenting it.
Example conversation
Daniel and Lucía are looking at a piece of furniture.
- DanielMira cómo se empieza a afilarse la pata.Look at how the leg starts to taper.
- LucíaSí, tiene un diseño muy elegante.Yes, it has a very elegant design.
- Daniel¿Crees que es demasiado delgado al final?Do you think it is too thin at the end?
- LucíaNo, Daniel, creo que está perfecto.No, Daniel, I think it is perfect.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
