lanza la pelota
/lanθa la pelota/from spelling rules
The English phrase 'throw the ball' is translated into Spanish as lanza la pelota.
This phrase describes the action of propelling a ball through the air using one's hand. Depending on the verb chosen, the nuance changes: lanzar implies a more controlled or intentional motion, whereas the synonym tirar can also mean to pull or to toss something more haphazardly.
Which one should you use?
The phrase can be expressed using different verbs. Use lanzar la pelota for a controlled throw. Alternatively, you can use tirar la pelota, though tirar can also imply tossing something more haphazardly or even pulling it.
How does it change in a sentence?
In Spanish, the phrase changes based on whom you are addressing and whether you are using a command. The infinitive form 'to throw the ball' is lanzar la pelota. When giving a command to someone you know informally (tú), use the imperative lanza la pelota. When addressing someone formally (usted), use the imperative lance la pelota.
How do you pronounce it?
/lanθa la pelota/
Did you know?
- In the phrase lanza la pelota, the word lanza is also the noun for a 'spear'. This creates a mental image of the ball being thrown like a weapon.
- The Spanish word pelota shares a common ancestor with the English word 'pill', as both derive from the Latin pila, meaning a ball or a rounded mass.
- The verb lanzar is also the standard term used in Spanish for launching a satellite or a rocket into space.
Examples in context
- Necesito que usted lance la pelota más fuerte.I need you to throw the ball harder.
- Por favor, tire la pelota hacia aquí.Please throw the ball over here.
- Tira la pelota hacia mí, por favor.Throw the ball to me, please.
- Oye, ¿por qué no arrojas la pelota más lejos?Hey, why don't you throw the ball farther?
- Lanza la pelota hacia mí.Throw the ball towards me.
- Si no lanza la pelota, no podemos jugar.If he doesn't throw the ball, we can't play.
- ¡Lanza la pelota muy alto!Throw the ball very high!
Example conversation
María and Javier are playing in a park.
- MaríaJavier, lanza la pelota.Javier, throw the ball.
- JavierEstá bien, la lanzo ya.Alright, I'm throwing it now.
- María¡Lánzala más alto!Throw it higher!
- JavierAquí va.Here it goes.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries la, lanza, pelota, CC BY-SA 4.0.
