IdiomAnimals
Spanish
Spanishcazar al vuelo
Meaning: To seize or take something quickly before someone else can.
Literally: To hunt in flight
Example: “Cazó al vuelo la última entrada del concierto.” — She jumped at the chance and grabbed the last concert ticket.
English equivalent: To jump at the chance
Equivalents in other languages
Thai: น้ำขึ้นให้รีบตัก Literally: When the water rises, hurry to scoop it
Hebrew: קופצים על המציאה (Kofsim al hamtsi'a) Literally: To jump on the bargain
English: jump at the chance
Origin: A skilled hunter brings down a bird in flight, without waiting for it to land. Catching something al vuelo is grasping it instantly as it passes, an opportunity or a hint; the related cazarlas al vuelo means being quick on the uptake. It has no particular story behind it.
More Spanish idioms
- vender la moto To trick or deceive someone, often by persuading them to believe a false story.
- codo con codo Standing shoulder to shoulder, side by side in close proximity.
- llevar la contraria To argue against or contradict someone habitually.
- para andar por casa Makeshift, temporary, or of poor quality; fit only for casual home use.
- salvar las apariencias To maintain an outward show of respectability or normalcy despite underlying problems.
- crecer como la espuma To increase or expand very rapidly and dramatically.
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