Typical Spanish expressions

What could be better than the local expressions of a country to make you feel like one of the locals, because in order to learn Spanish and understand in depth the context of a Spanish conversation it is important to know the expressions that are used.  It's true that it can be confusing at times, but don't despair! We help you to understand phrases and expressions that we Spaniards use a lot so that you feel more comfortable.

Curious local expressions and we explain why you should know them (especially if you are in Valencia):

 
1. La gota que colmó el vaso: Someone is trying your patience! We use this phrase to refer to "a situation that has been getting worse to the point of exploding". Putting up with it until you can't take it anymore is the straw that breaks the camel's back.
2. En un abrir y cerrar de ojos - In the blink of an eye: Something that has happened quickly, such as the action of blinking. If you are asked to do something in the blink of an eye, you are being asked to rush through a job.
3. Arrimar el hombro - Lend a hand: If they tell you to lend a hand? They need you to help with an action! Someone who needs urgent help on a job will ask you to lend a hand.
4. Aburrirse como una ostra - Bored as an oyster: As far as we know, oysters don't get bored! But we still use this expression to refer to this state of mind.
5. Meter la pata - Screwing up: If you've been told that you've screwed up... you've made a mistake. And if you messed up... it means that the mistake was more serious.
5. A la marcheta: When asked "how are you doing?", many Valencians will answer "a la mar-cha" or "a la marcheta". It doesn't mean that we are going to a party, nor does it mean that we are going for a walk. It would be the equivalent of "let's get going" or "no pri-sa but without pause", but much sweeter.
6. ¡De categoría! - Category!: Things in Valencia are neither good, nor magnificent, nor stupendous: they are top-notch. Whatever you like, international, superior, or special, but if something is upmarket, it's wonderful.
7. Arroz con cosas - Rice and stuff: Anything not included in the traditional paella recipe is denoted by the Valencians as "arroz con cosas" (rice with things). Not to be confused with baked rice, arroz a banda, arroz negro or other recipes of their own. It's a bit complicated to understand, but a few months of eating authentic paella every week and I assure you that you'll be the first one who won't want to eat "arroz con cosas" any more.

There are many more expressions that we will help you to know and understand thanks to our team of professionals at Costa de Valencia Spanish school, a place to learn and feel at home.
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