A1 Idiom Neutral

Cruzarse de brazos

To cross one's arms / do nothing

Meaning

To remain inactive or passive in a situation where action is needed.

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Cultural Background

Often used in workplace labor disputes to describe unions or management. Used frequently in family settings to scold children for not helping with chores.

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Use with 'quedarse'

Adding 'quedarse' makes the phrase sound more natural in most contexts.

Meaning

To remain inactive or passive in a situation where action is needed.

💡

Use with 'quedarse'

Adding 'quedarse' makes the phrase sound more natural in most contexts.

Test Yourself

Complete the sentence with the correct form.

No te _______ de brazos, ¡ayúdame!

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: cruces

The imperative form 'no te cruces' is required.

Which sentence is correct?

Choose the correct usage.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: Él está de brazos cruzados.

The past participle 'cruzados' is the correct adjective form.

🎉 Score: /2

Visual Learning Aids

Practice Bank

2 exercises
Complete the sentence with the correct form. Fill Blank A1

No te _______ de brazos, ¡ayúdame!

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: cruces

The imperative form 'no te cruces' is required.

Which sentence is correct? Choose A2

Choose the correct usage.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: Él está de brazos cruzados.

The past participle 'cruzados' is the correct adjective form.

🎉 Score: /2

Frequently Asked Questions

2 questions

It can be, as it implies someone is lazy or indifferent.

Yes, 'Me quedé de brazos cruzados' means you felt helpless.

Related Phrases

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Estar de manos atadas

similar

To have one's hands tied.

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No mover un dedo

synonym

To not lift a finger.

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