andar entre algodones
/andaɾ entɾe alɡodones/from spelling rules
The English phrase 'walk on eggshells' can be translated into Spanish as andar entre algodones. If unsure, use andar entre algodones. Wiktionary also lists proceder entre algodones.
Meaning: to act carefully to avoid upsetting someone (verb)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA |
|---|---|
| andar entre algodones | /andaɾ entɾe alɡodones/ (from spelling rules) |
| proceder entre algodones | /pɾoθedeɾ entɾe alɡodones/ (Spain, from spelling rules) /pɾosedeɾ entɾe alɡodones/ (Latin America, from spelling rules) |
This phrase is used to describe a person's behavior when they are trying to avoid a reaction from a sensitive or volatile person. While English uses the imagery of fragile eggshells, Spanish uses the imagery of soft cotton to describe acting with extreme care to avoid a conflict.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase andar entre algodones literally means 'to walk among cotton wool/cotton balls'.
Which one should you use?
The primary form is andar entre algodones. Another related idiom con pies de plomo means 'with feet of lead'. A related idiom con pies de plomo means to act with extreme caution or prudence, though it focuses more on careful decision-making than avoiding upsetting someone.
How do you pronounce it?
/andaɾ entɾe alɡodones/
Did you know?
- The verb andar in this idiom shares its Latin root with the musical term 'andante', which describes a 'walking' tempo in classical music.
- While the English 'eggshells' highlight the risk of something breaking, the Spanish algodones suggests an environment so soft and cushioned that any sudden movement would be noticed.
- The word entre used in the phrase originates from the Proto-Indo-European root '*h₁enter', making it a distant relative of the English word 'inter'.
Examples in context
- Nuestro jefe es bastante impredecible, así que siempre debemos andar con pies de plomo.Our boss is quite unpredictable, so we must always walk on eggshells.
- Siento que tengo que andar entre algodones con él.I feel like I have to walk on eggshells around him.
- No quiero andar entre algodones todo el día.I don't want to walk on eggshells all day.
Example conversation
Javier and Lucía are talking about a difficult coworker.
- Javier¿Cómo va el trabajo con el nuevo gerente?How is work going with the new manager?
- LucíaMuy mal, tengo que andar entre algodones con él.Very badly, I have to walk on eggshells around him.
- JavierLo siento mucho, debe ser muy estresante.I am very sorry, it must be very stressful.
- LucíaSí, es agotador estar siempre así.Yes, it is exhausting to be like this all the time.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “walk on eggshells” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries andar, entre, proceder, CC BY-SA 4.0.
