lavar la ropa
/labaɾ la ɾopa/from spelling rules
To wash clothes in Spanish is lavar la ropa.
The phrase lavar la ropa is used to describe the act of cleaning clothing using water and soap. This applies whether you are washing items by hand or using a washing machine. Additionally, the word secadora refers to a dryer.
How does it change in a sentence?
In Spanish, the definite article la is almost always included before ropa, even if an English speaker might simply say "wash clothes" without the word "the".
How do you pronounce it?
/labaɾ la ɾopa/
Did you know?
- The word ropa shares a root with the English word 'robe'. Both originate from a Germanic word meaning 'something torn off' or 'plundered'.
- In some Spanish-speaking regions, the phrase lavar la ropa sucia en público is used as an idiom meaning to discuss private family grievances openly.
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, it is common to use a lavadero, a large concrete laundry sink, which often serves as a social hub for neighbors to chat while washing clothes.
Examples in context
- ¿Podrías lavar la ropa sucia por mí?Could you wash the dirty clothes for me?
- Tengo que lavar la ropa hoy.I have to wash the clothes today.
- ¿Puedes lavar la ropa en la lavadora?Can you wash the clothes in the washing machine?
- Ella prefiere lavar la ropa a mano.She prefers to wash the clothes by hand.
Example conversation
Javier and Sofía are discussing their household chores.
- Javier¿Vas a lavar la ropa ahora, Sofía?Are you going to wash the clothes now, Sofía?
- SofíaSí, voy a lavar la ropa en una hora.Yes, I am going to wash the clothes in one hour.
- JavierPerfecto, yo voy a limpiar la cocina.Perfect, I am going to clean the kitchen.
- SofíaMuy bien, terminaremos pronto.Very well, we will finish soon.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries la, lavar, ropa, CC BY-SA 4.0.
