How To Say “Tow” In Spanish
Tow, the English verb meaning to pull or haul, presents itself as a unique obstacle for Spanish language learners; the Spanish word for tow doesn’t quite match up with the English word. However, this doesn’t have to cause frustration. The Spanish word for tow depends on the context in which the word is being used; usually, it is replaced with one of two Spanish words.
Remolcar
Remolcar is used when speaking about towing a vehicle. It is made up of the Latin root remolc- meaning ‘pull,’ and the Spanish suffix -ar, forming a first-person present-tense verb in the language. Depending on the context of the sentence, remolcar is conjugated differently. For example, “I am towing a car,” is Yo remolco un carro. It can also be used figuratively in the Spanish language; for example, Niño, no andes remolcándote – meaning ‘boy, don’t hang back.’
Remolque
Remolque is the Spanish word for physical tow, like a winch or heavy rope. It is derived from the Latin root remorque, meaning dragnet. Remolque is often used to refer specifically to a proper towing vehicle; for example, “The tow truck attached a remolque to the broken car,” would be translated as; El grúa ató un remolque al auto roto. Just like the word remolcar, remolque can be used figuratively, too. For example, Los periodistas remolcaron la verdad – meaning ‘the journalists dragged the truth out.’
Conclusion
Tow may present a unique challenge for Spanish speakers, but it doesn’t have to be one that intimidates them. With a bit of research, Spanish learners are sure to be able to express complicated English words, like tow, in the Spanish language. All it takes to find Spanish substitutes for English words is a bit of perseverance and patience. After all, knowing how to say tow in Spanish will serve as a big help when traveling or conversing with Spanish-speakers.
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