Meaning
To embrace someone as a sign of affection.
Cultural Background
In Spain, the 'abrazo' is often combined with two kisses (dos besos) on the cheeks when meeting friends of the opposite sex or between women. Men in Argentina are very likely to 'dar un abrazo' and a single kiss on the cheek to other male friends, which is more common than in other Spanish-speaking countries. The 'abrazo' is a sign of deep trust (confianza). If someone gives you a hug in a business context, it means you have moved beyond being just acquaintances.
The 'Dar' Rule
Remember that in Spanish, you 'give' (dar) affection. This applies to 'dar un beso' (kiss) and 'dar ánimos' (encouragement) too.
Air Hugs
In digital messages, writing 'Un abrazo' is the equivalent of 'Best' or 'Warmly' in English.
Meaning
To embrace someone as a sign of affection.
The 'Dar' Rule
Remember that in Spanish, you 'give' (dar) affection. This applies to 'dar un beso' (kiss) and 'dar ánimos' (encouragement) too.
Air Hugs
In digital messages, writing 'Un abrazo' is the equivalent of 'Best' or 'Warmly' in English.
Test Yourself
Choose the correct verb to complete the phrase.
Mañana voy a ____ un abrazo a mi abuela.
In Spanish, we 'give' (dar) hugs.
Fill in the missing indirect object pronoun (me, te, le, nos, les).
Mi hermano ____ dio un abrazo a mí ayer.
Because the recipient is 'a mí', the pronoun must be 'me'.
Match the phrase to the situation.
You are writing an informal email to a friend.
'Un abrazo fuerte' is a common informal sign-off.
Complete the dialogue.
Juan: '¡Felicidades por tu boda!' Pedro: '¡Gracias! Ven aquí y ____.'
'Dame un abrazo' is the natural response to a celebration.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
When to give a hug
Family
- • Birthdays
- • Arrivals
- • Goodbyes
Friends
- • Celebrations
- • Support
- • Greetings
Practice Bank
4 exercisesMañana voy a ____ un abrazo a mi abuela.
In Spanish, we 'give' (dar) hugs.
Mi hermano ____ dio un abrazo a mí ayer.
Because the recipient is 'a mí', the pronoun must be 'me'.
You are writing an informal email to a friend.
'Un abrazo fuerte' is a common informal sign-off.
Juan: '¡Felicidades por tu boda!' Pedro: '¡Gracias! Ven aquí y ____.'
'Dame un abrazo' is the natural response to a celebration.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsNo, it sounds very unnatural. Always use 'dar'.
It is neutral to informal. In very formal settings, use a handshake.
'Abrazar' is the general verb. 'Dar un abrazo' usually refers to a single, specific instance of hugging.
Use 'un fuerte abrazo' or 'un gran abrazo'.
Yes, it is very common among friends and family.
Yes, 'Un abrazo' is a perfect way to end an email to a friend.
Related Phrases
Dar un beso
similarTo give a kiss
Estrechar entre los brazos
specialized formTo hold tightly in one's arms
Un apretón de manos
contrastA handshake
