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atornillar

A2 verb 11 min read

atornillar

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips atornillar in 30 Seconds

Explanation atornillar in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should focus on 'atornillar' as a simple action verb. Think of it as part of a list of 'doing' words like 'comer' (to eat) or 'beber' (to drink). You might not use it every day, but it is very useful when you are talking about basic objects in a house. Imagine you are pointing at a chair that is broken. You can say, 'Necesito un tornillo' (I need a screw). Then, you can use the verb: 'Yo atornillo la silla' (I screw the chair). It is a regular verb, so it follows the same pattern as 'hablar'. This makes it very easy to learn. Just remember the root 'atornill-' and add the endings: -o, -as, -a, -amos, -áis, -an. At this level, don't worry about complex tools or industrial uses. Just think about the physical act of putting a screw into something to fix it. If you are learning household vocabulary, 'atornillar' is the best friend of 'la mesa' (the table), 'la silla' (the chair), and 'el estante' (the shelf). It is a concrete word that describes a concrete action.

At the A2 level, you are expected to use 'atornillar' in more complete sentences and in different tenses. You should be able to say things like 'Ayer atornillé la puerta' (Yesterday I screwed the door) or 'Voy a atornillar el cuadro' (I am going to screw the picture frame). You should also learn the name of the tool: 'el destornillador' (the screwdriver). At this level, you start to use prepositions. For example, 'atornillar algo A la pared' (to screw something TO the wall). You might also encounter the imperative form in simple instructions, like 'Atornilla aquí' (Screw here). This is the level where you distinguish between 'atornillar' and 'clavar' (to nail). If you are assembling furniture, you will see this word in the manual. You should also be able to ask for help using this verb: '¿Puedes ayudarme a atornillar esto?' (Can you help me screw this in?). It is a practical word for everyday problem-solving in the home.

By the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'atornillar' in various grammatical moods, including the subjunctive. For example, 'Es importante que atornilles bien la base' (It is important that you screw the base in well). You will also use it to describe more complex processes. You might talk about 'atornillar piezas metálicas' (screwing metal pieces) or 'atornillar con un taladro eléctrico' (screwing with an electric drill). At this level, you should understand the passive 'se' construction: 'Esta parte se atornilla al final' (This part is screwed in at the end). You also begin to see the word in professional contexts. If you are describing a hobby like woodworking or car repair, 'atornillar' becomes a frequent part of your vocabulary. You should also know the opposite verb, 'desatornillar' (to unscrew), and use them together to describe taking something apart and putting it back together. Your sentences will become longer and more descriptive, using adverbs like 'fuertemente' (strongly) or 'cuidadosamente' (carefully).

At the B2 level, 'atornillar' is used with technical precision. You understand the difference between 'atornillar' and 'empernar' (to bolt) or 'enroscar' (to screw on/thread). You can discuss the nuances of different types of screws and how they are 'atornillados' into different surfaces like 'pladur' (drywall) or 'hormigón' (concrete). You might use the verb in more abstract or figurative ways, though this is still less common than literal usage. For example, 'El sistema está atornillado a una estructura antigua' (The system is bolted to an old structure), referring to a business or political system. You are also capable of following complex technical manuals in Spanish that use 'atornillar' in the 'se' passive or the third-person plural to give instructions. You can explain why something failed, such as 'El tornillo no se atornilló rectamente' (The screw wasn't screwed in straight). This level requires a deep understanding of the mechanical context surrounding the word.

At the C1 level, you use 'atornillar' with complete fluency, including its idiomatic and metaphorical extensions. You might use it to describe someone who is 'atornillado a su silla' (stuck in their chair/unwilling to move or change). You can participate in high-level discussions about engineering, architecture, or industrial design where 'atornillar' is just one of many joining techniques discussed. You understand the historical etymology (from 'tornillo' and the Latin 'tornus') and how the word relates to broader concepts of rotation and fixation. You can use the verb in complex literary contexts or formal reports. For instance, 'La normativa quedó atornillada al marco legal vigente' (The regulation was firmly attached/bolted to the current legal framework). At this level, you also recognize regional variations in tool names (like 'desarmador' vs 'destornillador') and can adapt your speech accordingly. You use the word not just as a verb of action, but as a verb of state and permanence.

At the C2 level, 'atornillar' is a tool in your vast linguistic arsenal that you use with absolute precision and stylistic flair. You can appreciate and use the word in technical white papers, legal documents describing physical installations, or sophisticated literature. You might use it to create vivid metaphors about stability, rigidity, or the inability to change. You understand all the technical derivatives and can discuss 'par de apriete' (torque) in relation to 'atornillar'. You are also familiar with very specific regional slang that might derive from the word. Your command of the verb allows you to play with its meaning, perhaps in a pun or a complex joke about DIY or bureaucracy. You can explain the subtle difference between 'atornillar' and 'afianzar' in a structural engineering context. For a C2 speaker, the word is not just about a screw; it's about the entire concept of mechanical and metaphorical fixation within the Spanish-speaking world's technical and cultural history.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

atornillar in 30 Seconds

Atornillar is a regular -ar verb meaning 'to screw' or 'to fasten with screws'.
It is used primarily in DIY, furniture assembly, and construction contexts.
The opposite action is 'desatornillar' (to unscrew).
Common tools associated with it are 'el tornillo' (the screw) and 'el destornillador' (the screwdriver).

The Spanish verb atornillar is a foundational action verb that every Spanish learner should master, particularly those interested in DIY, construction, or general home maintenance. At its core, it means 'to fasten or secure something using a screw.' This involves the physical act of rotating a screw into a pre-drilled hole or directly into a material like wood or metal. It is the direct counterpart to the English 'to screw in' or 'to bolt.' While it might seem like a purely technical term, its frequency in daily life—from assembling IKEA furniture to fixing a loose cabinet door—makes it an essential part of the A2 level vocabulary. Understanding this word allows you to navigate hardware stores, follow assembly instructions, and describe manual tasks with precision.

The Mechanical Process: The verb describes the rotational force applied to a tornillo (screw). It implies the use of a tool, typically a destornillador (screwdriver) or a taladro (drill). When you use this verb, you are focusing on the result of stabilization and attachment.
Transitive Usage: In most cases, atornillar is a transitive verb, meaning it requires a direct object—the thing you are screwing. For example, 'Atornillé la estantería' (I screwed the shelf). You can also use it with the preposition 'a' to indicate what the object is being fastened to, such as 'Atornilla la placa a la pared' (Screw the plate to the wall).

Para montar la mesa, primero tienes que atornillar las patas al tablero principal.

To assemble the table, first you have to screw the legs to the main tabletop.

Beyond the literal sense, atornillar can occasionally be found in metaphorical contexts, though less frequently than in English. In Spanish, if someone is 'atornillado a su puesto' (screwed to their position), it suggests they are refusing to leave a job or a role, often implying a sense of stubbornness or permanence that might be unearned. However, as an A2 learner, your primary focus should be the physical act of fastening. You will hear this word constantly in 'ferreterías' (hardware stores) or when watching Spanish-language DIY tutorials on YouTube. It is a 'doing' word that requires precision; just as you wouldn't use a hammer to 'atornillar', you shouldn't confuse this word with 'clavar' (to nail).

¿Podrías atornillar este cuadro con cuidado?

Could you screw this picture [frame] in carefully?

Variations in Complexity: While 'atornillar' is the standard, you might also encounter 'enroscar'. While 'enroscar' means to screw on (like a bottle cap or a lightbulb), 'atornillar' specifically implies the use of a screw with a head designed for a tool. Understanding this distinction prevents you from sounding like you're trying to 'screw' a lightbulb with a screwdriver!

Es imposible atornillar esto sin el destornillador adecuado.

It is impossible to screw this in without the proper screwdriver.

Using atornillar correctly involves understanding its conjugation as a regular '-ar' verb and knowing which prepositions typically follow it. Because it is a physical action, it is frequently used in the imperative mood (commands) or the infinitive after helping verbs like 'necesitar' (to need) or 'querer' (to want). In this section, we will explore the structural patterns that will help you sound more natural when discussing repairs or construction.

The Basic Structure: The most common pattern is: [Subject] + [Conjugated Atornillar] + [Object (the thing being screwed)]. For example: 'Yo atornillo el soporte' (I screw the bracket). If you are attaching one thing to another, use 'en' or 'a'. 'Atornilla el gancho en la madera' or 'Atornilla el gancho a la madera'. Both are acceptable, though 'a' often implies the destination.

Él está atornillando la bisagra de la puerta porque estaba floja.

He is screwing the door hinge because it was loose.

When giving instructions, the imperative is key. In a formal setting or a manual, you might see 'Atornille' (usted), whereas a friend might say 'Atornilla' (tú). If you are following a recipe for disaster—like trying to fix something without the right tools—you might hear 'No lo atornilles demasiado fuerte' (Don't screw it in too tight), as this could strip the screw, a process called 'trasroscar' or 'correr la rosca' in Spanish.

¿Han atornillado ya todas las piezas del mueble?

Have they already screwed all the pieces of the furniture together?

Passive and Reflexive Nuances: You might see 'se atornilla' in manuals to indicate how something 'is screwed' (passive 'se'). For example: 'Esta pieza se atornilla aquí' (This piece is screwed in here). This is a very common way to describe assembly steps without identifying a specific person doing the action.

Si no atornillas bien la base, la lámpara se va a caer.

If you don't screw the base in well, the lamp is going to fall.

Finally, consider the adverbial complements. You can 'atornillar fuertemente' (tightly), 'atornillar ligeramente' (lightly), or 'atornillar a fondo' (all the way in). These modifiers help specify the intensity of the action, which is crucial in mechanical contexts where over-tightening can be just as bad as leaving something loose.

The word atornillar is ubiquitous in environments where physical objects are created, repaired, or maintained. While you might not hear it in a philosophy lecture, you will certainly encounter it in a variety of practical everyday situations. Understanding these contexts will help you recognize the word when it's spoken quickly or in a noisy environment like a construction site.

The Home Improvement Store (La Ferretería): This is the primary habitat of the word. You might hear a customer ask, '¿Qué tipo de tornillo necesito para atornillar madera a metal?' (What kind of screw do I need to screw wood to metal?). The staff will use the verb to explain the application of various fasteners.
Furniture Assembly: Whether you're helping a friend move or following instructions for a new desk, atornillar is the star of the show. Instructions will say: 'Atornille los pernos A en los orificios B'. In conversation, someone might say, 'Ayúdame a atornillar esto, que yo no tengo fuerza'.

El carpintero está atornillando el marco de la ventana.

The carpenter is screwing in the window frame.

In the automotive world, mechanics use it constantly. From 'atornillar la matrícula' (screwing on the license plate) to more complex engine work involving 'pernos' (bolts), the action remains the same. You will also hear it in the context of technology—specifically hardware repair. When a technician opens a laptop, they have to 'desatornillar' (unscrew) the casing and later 'atornillar' it back together. It’s a word of restoration and completion.

Tengo que atornillar la tapa de la batería para que no se salga.

I have to screw the battery cover on so it doesn't come out.

Creative and Artistic Fields: Sculptors, stagehands in theaters, and exhibition designers use atornillar when discussing how to secure art pieces or set decorations. It implies a secure, semi-permanent attachment that is more reliable than glue or tape.

¿Prefieres atornillar el estante o usar clavos?

Do you prefer to screw the shelf in or use nails?

Finally, you might hear it in childhood memories or family settings. A parent teaching a child how to use tools will patiently say, 'Gira hacia la derecha para atornillar' (Turn to the right to screw it in). This phrase—'derecha atornillar, izquierda desatornillar'—is the Spanish equivalent of 'righty-tighty, lefty-loosey'.

Learning atornillar is straightforward, but there are several linguistic pitfalls that English speakers often fall into. These errors usually stem from direct translation or confusing 'atornillar' with other verbs that describe similar but distinct actions. Recognizing these mistakes early will help you communicate with the precision of a native speaker.

Confusing 'Atornillar' with 'Enroscar': In English, we 'screw in' a lightbulb and 'screw in' a screw. In Spanish, these are different. For a lightbulb, a bottle cap, or anything with a threaded rim that you twist by hand, use enroscar. Reserve atornillar specifically for when a tornillo (screw) and usually a tool are involved. Saying 'atornillar una bombilla' sounds like you are trying to use a screwdriver on a lightbulb!
Mixing up 'Atornillar' and 'Clavar': This is a common beginner mistake. Clavar means 'to nail' or 'to drive in' (like a stake). If you tell a carpenter to 'clavar' a screw, they might actually hit it with a hammer, which would ruin the threading. Always use the specific verb for the hardware you are using.

Incorrecto: Voy a atornillar el clavo en la pared.
Correcto: Voy a clavar el clavo en la pared.

You can't 'screw' a nail; you 'nail' a nail.

Another mistake involves the direction of the action. The prefix 'a-' in 'atornillar' indicates moving toward or into a state of being screwed. The prefix 'des-' in desatornillar indicates the opposite (unscrewing). Students often forget the 'des-' and try to use 'atornillar' for both actions, leading to confusion. Always remember: 'atornillar' is for assembly, 'desatornillar' is for disassembly.

No intentes atornillar sin hacer un agujero guía primero.

Don't try to screw it in without making a pilot hole first.

The 'Screw Up' False Friend: In English, 'to screw up' is a common idiom for making a mistake. Do not use 'atornillar' for this! If you want to say you messed up, use 'meter la pata' or 'arruinarlo'. Saying 'atornillé el examen' will literally mean you used a screwdriver on your test paper, which would certainly be a strange way to fail!

Recuerda atornillar en el sentido de las agujas del reloj.

Remember to screw in clockwise.

In Spanish, as in English, there are many ways to describe the act of joining things together. While atornillar is specific to screws, knowing its synonyms and related verbs will expand your ability to describe different methods of construction and repair. Each word carries a slightly different nuance regarding the tool used or the permanence of the connection.

Atornillar vs. Empernar: Atornillar is the general term for using screws. Empernar is more technical and specifically refers to using 'pernos' (bolts) which usually require a nut (tuerca) on the other side. You 'atornilla' a shelf to a wall, but you might 'emperna' the engine of a car.
Atornillar vs. Enroscar: As mentioned before, enroscar is used for threading things together by hand, like a cap on a bottle or a hose to a faucet. Atornillar almost always implies a mechanical fastener with a head for a tool.
Fijar and Asegurar: These are broader terms. Fijar means 'to fix' or 'to attach' and can be done with glue, nails, or screws. Asegurar means 'to secure'. You might 'atornillar' a panel to 'asegurar' (secure) the structure.

Es mejor atornillar las maderas que simplemente pegarlas.

It is better to screw the woods together than simply gluing them.

In some regions, you might hear ajustar (to adjust/tighten). While not a direct synonym, if someone says 'ajusta el tornillo', they mean you should screw it in a bit more to make it tighter. Conversely, aflojar is to loosen. If a screw is too tight, you don't 'desatornillar' it slightly; you 'lo aflojas'.

¿Puedes atornillar este soporte para que quede firme?

Can you screw this bracket in so it stays firm?

Lastly, unir (to join) is the most general verb. You can 'unir' two pieces by 'atornillándolas'. This shows the relationship between the general intent (joining) and the specific method (screwing). Knowing these levels of specificity allows you to describe your actions more vividly and accurately in a workshop or home setting.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The word 'tornillo' is a diminutive of 'torno' (lathe). So 'atornillar' literally means 'to little-lathe' something into position.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /a.toɾ.ni.'ʎaɾ/

US /a.toɾ.ni.'ʝaɾ/

The stress is on the last syllable '-ar' because it is an infinitive ending in 'r'.

Rhymes With

brillar cantar hablar llegar mirar pasar saltar trabajar

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'll' like an English 'l'. It must be a 'y' sound.
Forgetting the 'r' at the end of the infinitive.
Putting the stress on the 'i' instead of the 'a'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize if you know 'tornillo'.

Writing 3/5

The double 'l' and prefix 'a-' require some practice.

Speaking 3/5

Pronouncing the 'll' correctly is important for sounding natural.

Listening 2/5

The 'a-' prefix can sometimes blend with other words in fast speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

tornillo herramienta madera pared mano

Learn Next

destornillador desatornillar enroscar clavar taladrar

Advanced

perno tuerca par de apriete rosca chapa tirafondo

Grammar to Know

Regular -ar verb conjugation

Yo atornillo, tú atornillas, él atornilla...

The use of 'a' for destination

Atornillar el gancho a la pared.

Passive 'se' for instructions

Se atornilla la base antes de poner el cristal.

Infinitive after 'hay que'

Hay que atornillar esto fuerte.

Negative imperative formation

No atornilles (tú) todavía.

Examples by Level

Yo atornillo la mesa.

I screw [in] the table.

Present tense, 1st person singular.

¿Tú atornillas la silla?

Do you screw [in] the chair?

Question form, 2nd person singular.

Él atornilla el juguete.

He screws [in] the toy.

Present tense, 3rd person singular.

Nosotros atornillamos la caja.

We screw [in] the box.

Present tense, 1st person plural.

Ellos atornillan la estantería.

They screw [in] the bookshelf.

Present tense, 3rd person plural.

Usted atornilla la puerta.

You (formal) screw [in] the door.

Formal address.

Ella quiere atornillar el cuadro.

She wants to screw [in] the picture.

Infinitive after 'querer'.

Necesito atornillar esto.

I need to screw this in.

Infinitive after 'necesitar'.

Ayer atornillé las patas de la mesa.

Yesterday I screwed the table legs.

Preterite tense.

¿Atornillaste el soporte a la pared?

Did you screw the bracket to the wall?

Preterite tense with preposition 'a'.

Mañana voy a atornillar el armario.

Tomorrow I am going to screw the wardrobe.

Future with 'ir a'.

Atornilla esto con cuidado, por favor.

Screw this in carefully, please.

Imperative (tú).

No atornilles el tornillo todavía.

Don't screw the screw in yet.

Negative imperative.

Estamos atornillando las bisagras.

We are screwing the hinges.

Present progressive.

El carpintero atornilló el marco.

The carpenter screwed the frame.

3rd person preterite.

¿Podemos atornillar la placa aquí?

Can we screw the plate here?

Modal verb 'poder' + infinitive.

Espero que atornilles bien la base.

I hope you screw the base in well.

Present subjunctive.

Si tuviera un destornillador, lo atornillaría.

If I had a screwdriver, I would screw it in.

Conditional mood.

Se atornilla la pieza A con la pieza B.

Piece A is screwed with piece B.

Passive 'se'.

Había atornillado todo antes de que llegaras.

I had screwed everything in before you arrived.

Past perfect.

Atornillando fuerte, conseguí fijar el estante.

By screwing hard, I managed to fix the shelf.

Gerund as an adverb of manner.

Dudo que ellos hayan atornillado el motor.

I doubt that they have screwed the motor in.

Present perfect subjunctive.

Para que no se mueva, hay que atornillarlo.

So it doesn't move, it must be screwed in.

'Hay que' + infinitive + object pronoun.

Aunque lo atornilles, se seguirá moviendo.

Even if you screw it in, it will keep moving.

Concessive clause with subjunctive.

El técnico está atornillando la placa base al chasis.

The technician is screwing the motherboard to the chassis.

Technical context.

Asegúrate de atornillar los pernos con el par adecuado.

Make sure to screw the bolts with the proper torque.

Technical vocabulary 'par'.

Se recomienda atornillar las vigas para mayor estabilidad.

It is recommended to screw the beams for greater stability.

Impersonal 'se'.

Una vez atornillado, el panel no se puede quitar fácilmente.

Once screwed in, the panel cannot be removed easily.

Past participle as an adjective.

Habíamos atornillado la estructura antes de la tormenta.

We had screwed the structure in before the storm.

Past perfect indicating completion.

Es necesario atornillar a fondo para que el cierre funcione.

It is necessary to screw all the way in for the lock to work.

Adverbial phrase 'a fondo'.

Si no lo hubieras atornillado, se habría caído.

If you hadn't screwed it in, it would have fallen.

Third conditional (past unreal).

¿Quién atornilló esta tapa de forma tan descuidada?

Who screwed this lid on so carelessly?

Evaluative adverb 'descuidada'.

El político lleva años atornillado a su cargo público.

The politician has been bolted to his public office for years.

Metaphorical usage.

La pieza debe atornillarse siguiendo un patrón en cruz.

The piece must be screwed in following a cross pattern.

Reflexive passive with modal 'debe'.

Al atornillar sobre superficies delicadas, usa un protector.

When screwing onto delicate surfaces, use a protector.

'Al' + infinitive construction.

Quedó tan bien atornillado que parece una sola pieza.

It ended up so well screwed in that it looks like a single piece.

Resultative 'quedar' + participle.

No basta con atornillar; hay que nivelar primero.

It's not enough to screw it in; you have to level it first.

Complex sentence with 'no basta con'.

El diseño permite atornillar y desatornillar sin dañar la rosca.

The design allows for screwing and unscrewing without damaging the thread.

Infinitives as nouns.

Incluso tras atornillarlo, percibí una ligera vibración.

Even after screwing it in, I noticed a slight vibration.

Prepositional phrase 'tras' + infinitive.

Se atornilló a la idea de no vender la empresa.

He clung (screwed himself) to the idea of not selling the company.

Reflexive metaphorical usage.

La rigidez del protocolo parece atornillada a una época pretérita.

The rigidity of the protocol seems bolted to a bygone era.

Sophisticated metaphorical language.

Es imperativo atornillar el anclaje al sustrato rocoso.

It is imperative to bolt the anchor to the rocky substrate.

Academic/Technical vocabulary.

La obsolescencia programada impide desatornillar ciertos componentes.

Planned obsolescence prevents unscrewing certain components.

Socio-economic context.

Atornilló su destino al de la revolución sin dudarlo.

He bolted his destiny to that of the revolution without hesitation.

Literary metaphor.

La precisión al atornillar determina la integridad estructural del conjunto.

Precision when screwing determines the structural integrity of the assembly.

Scientific/Engineering register.

Pese a estar atornillada, la placa cedió ante la corrosión.

Despite being screwed in, the plate gave way to corrosion.

Concessive 'pese a' + infinitive.

El operario procedió a atornillar los pernos de alta resistencia.

The operator proceeded to screw the high-resistance bolts.

Formal 'proceder a' construction.

Nada hay más firme que aquello que el tiempo ha atornillado.

Nothing is firmer than that which time has bolted down.

Poetic/Philosophical inversion.

Common Collocations

atornillar a la pared

atornillar fuertemente

atornillar con un destornillador

atornillar las patas

atornillar una placa

atornillar a fondo

atornillar madera

atornillar metal

atornillar bisagras

atornillar soportes

Common Phrases

atornillar bien

— To screw something in securely so it doesn't move.

Asegúrate de atornillar bien el estante.

atornillar mal

— To screw something in incorrectly or crookedly.

Si lo atornillas mal, se romperá la madera.

atornillar de más

— To over-tighten a screw, risking damage.

Ten cuidado de no atornillar de más.

atornillar a mano

— To screw in by hand using a manual screwdriver.

Prefiero atornillar a mano para no dañar el mueble.

listo para atornillar

— Ready to be fastened with screws.

El mueble ya está listo para atornillar.

difícil de atornillar

— Hard to screw in, usually due to position or material.

Este rincón es muy difícil de atornillar.

atornillar en cruz

— To screw in a cross pattern for even pressure.

En las ruedas, se debe atornillar en cruz.

atornillar por fuera

— To screw from the outside of a structure.

Hay que atornillar por fuera para que no se vea.

atornillar por dentro

— To screw from the inside.

Atornilla por dentro para un acabado más limpio.

volver a atornillar

— To screw back in after removal.

Después de limpiar, hay que volver a atornillar la tapa.

Often Confused With

atornillar vs clavar

To nail. Use a hammer for 'clavar', a screwdriver for 'atornillar'.

atornillar vs enroscar

To screw on by hand (like a lid). Use 'atornillar' for screws.

atornillar vs pegar

To glue. 'Atornillar' is mechanical, 'pegar' is chemical.

Idioms & Expressions

"estar atornillado a la silla"

— To be stuck in one's position or job, often refusing to move.

El jefe lleva veinte años atornillado a la silla.

informal

"atornillar las ideas"

— To solidify or firmly establish one's thoughts or plans.

Necesito un tiempo para atornillar mis ideas antes de la reunión.

figurative

"faltarle un tornillo"

— To be crazy or acting strangely (literally 'to be missing a screw').

A ese hombre le falta un tornillo.

slang

"apretar los tornillos"

— To pressure someone to do something or to be more strict.

El profesor nos va a apretar los tornillos este examen.

informal

"atornillarse en el cargo"

— To refuse to leave a political or professional office.

Se atornilló en el cargo y no hubo forma de sacarlo.

political

"tener un tornillo flojo"

— Similar to 'missing a screw', meaning to be a bit crazy.

Parece que tiene un tornillo flojo con ese plan.

informal

"darle una vuelta de tuerca"

— To give something a new twist or to increase pressure (related to screws/bolts).

Hay que darle una vuelta de tuerca a este proyecto.

metaphorical

"atornillar el futuro"

— To secure one's future firmly.

Con este contrato, ha atornillado su futuro.

literary

"atornillado al suelo"

— To be frozen in place, usually by fear or surprise.

Se quedó atornillado al suelo cuando vio el accidente.

descriptive

"atornillar la victoria"

— To secure a victory firmly (common in sports).

El equipo atornilló la victoria en el último minuto.

journalistic

Easily Confused

atornillar vs destornillar

Sounds like the tool 'destornillador'.

'Destornillar' is an older/less common variant of 'desatornillar' (to unscrew). Use 'desatornillar' to be safe.

Voy a desatornillar (unscrew) la tapa.

atornillar vs entornillar

Very similar sound.

This is a regional or archaic synonym for atornillar. Use 'atornillar' as it is universally understood.

Él entornilló la madera (Less common).

atornillar vs tornar

Same root.

'Tornar' means to return or to turn/change something. It has nothing to do with screws.

El tiempo torna (changes) las cosas.

atornillar vs torcer

Starts with 'tor-'.

'Torcer' means to twist or bend something out of shape.

No tuerzas (don't bend) el tornillo.

atornillar vs atormentar

Similar prefix and length.

'Atormentar' means to torment or torture. Very different!

No me atormentes (don't torment me) con preguntas.

Sentence Patterns

S + atornillar + O

Yo atornillo la mesa.

Ir a + atornillar + O

Voy a atornillar el cuadro.

Atornillar + O + a + L

Atornilla el soporte a la pared.

Es importante que + atornilles

Es importante que atornilles bien.

Se + atornilla + S

Se atornilla la tapa aquí.

Atornillar + con + Herramienta

Atornilla con el taladro eléctrico.

Al + atornillar + ...

Al atornillar, ten cuidado con la madera.

Atornillado + a + Concepto

Su vida está atornillada a su trabajo.

Word Family

Nouns

el tornillo (screw)

el destornillador (screwdriver)

el atornillado (the act of screwing)

la atornilladora (power screwdriver/drill)

Verbs

desatornillar (to unscrew)

entornillar (less common variant of atornillar)

Adjectives

atornillado (screwed in/fixed)

desatornillado (unscrewed)

la tuerca (nut)

el perno (bolt)

la rosca (thread)

la arandela (washer)

el taladro (drill)

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in practical and domestic contexts; low in academic or literary contexts.

Common Mistakes

Atornillar una bombilla. → Enroscar una bombilla.
You 'enroscar' (twist) a lightbulb with your hand. You 'atornillar' a screw with a tool.
Atornillé el examen. → Metí la pata en el examen.
'Atornillar' cannot be used for 'to screw up' (make a mistake). Use 'metí la pata'.
Atornillar con un martillo. → Clavar con un martillo.
You use a hammer for 'clavar' (nailing), not for 'atornillar' (screwing).
Atornillar el tornillo afuera. → Desatornillar el tornillo.
To remove a screw, use the specific verb 'desatornillar'.
Atornillar con la pared. → Atornillar a la pared.
The preposition 'a' indicates where the object is being fastened. 'Con' suggests the wall is helping you.

Tips

Know your tools

Learn 'destornillador' alongside 'atornillar'. They are a pair. If you are in a shop, asking for a 'destornillador para atornillar madera' will make you sound very competent.

The 'a' prefix

Remember the 'a-' at the beginning. Without it, 'tornillar' is not a word. It's like 'to-screw' in English, where the 'a' indicates the action towards the object.

The Ferretería experience

Don't be afraid to go into a local hardware store and practice. Say 'Necesito algo para atornillar esto'. It's a great way to learn real-world Spanish.

The double L

Ensure your 'll' is a 'y' sound. 'A-tor-ni-yar'. If you say 'A-tor-ni-lar', people might not understand you immediately.

The 'missing screw'

'Faltarle un tornillo' is a very common and funny way to say someone is crazy. It's a great idiom to use with friends.

Righty-Tighty

In Spanish, we say 'A la derecha se aprieta (o atornilla), a la izquierda se afloja'. This is the golden rule of mechanics everywhere.

Don't over-tighten

Use the phrase 'No lo atornilles demasiado' to warn someone not to strip the screw. 'Pasar de rosca' is the verb for stripping the thread.

Visualizing the thread

The word 'rosca' (thread) is related. When you 'atornillar', you are following the 'rosca'. Imagine the spiral as you say the word.

Spelling check

It is 'atornillar', with two 'l's and two 'r's (one at the start of the syllable, one at the end). It's a good word to practice your Spanish spelling rules.

Listen for the drill

In DIY videos, the sound of the 'taladro' (drill) usually accompanies the word 'atornillar'. Use these videos to hear the word in context.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'A-Torn-In-A-Wall'. You use a screw to fix 'a torn' piece of wood 'in a wall'. A-TORN-ILLAR.

Visual Association

Imagine a giant 'Torn' (like a tornado) spinning a screw into a board. The spinning motion is the key.

Word Web

tornillo destornillador madera fijar herramientas taller mueble rosca

Challenge

Try to find five things in your room that are 'atornillados' and name them in Spanish (e.g., 'La puerta está atornillada').

Word Origin

Derived from the Spanish noun 'tornillo' (screw), which comes from the Latin 'tornus', meaning a lathe or a turner's wheel.

Original meaning: To turn or rotate something into place.

Romance (Latin root)

Cultural Context

The word is entirely neutral and safe to use in all contexts. No sensitivity issues.

In English, we use 'screw' for many things (including slang). In Spanish, 'atornillar' is much more specific to the physical act and lacks the vulgar connotations of the English word.

Don Quixote's armor might have needed some 'atornillado' (though they used straps then). Modern architecture in Spain, like the works of Calatrava, involves massive 'atornillados' in steel.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Furniture Assembly

¿Dónde se atornilla esta pieza?
Atornilla las patas primero.
No atornilles demasiado.

Construction

Atornillar al pladur.
Usar tornillos largos para atornillar.
Atornillar el marco de la ventana.

Electronics Repair

Atornillar la tapa trasera.
Cuidado al atornillar la placa.
Faltan tornillos por atornillar.

Car Maintenance

Atornillar la matrícula.
Hay que atornillar el parachoques.
Atornilla bien los bornes de la batería.

Art & Decoration

Atornillar el cuadro a la pared.
¿Cómo quieres atornillar el espejo?
Atornillar soportes para las luces.

Conversation Starters

"¿Sabes cómo atornillar esto sin romper la madera?"

"¿Prefieres atornillar los muebles tú mismo o que lo haga un profesional?"

"¿Tienes un destornillador eléctrico para atornillar más rápido?"

"¿Cuántos tornillos necesitamos para atornillar toda la estantería?"

"¿Te parece que está bien atornillado o necesita otro tornillo?"

Journal Prompts

Describe un momento en el que tuviste que atornillar algo y no tenías las herramientas adecuadas.

¿Qué prefieres: atornillar, clavar o pegar cosas? Explica por qué.

Escribe instrucciones paso a paso sobre cómo atornillar un estante a la pared.

Imagina que estás construyendo una casa de madera. ¿Qué partes tendrías que atornillar?

¿Crees que es importante saber atornillar y hacer reparaciones básicas en casa?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

'Atornillar' specifically refers to using a screw (tornillo) and usually a tool like a screwdriver. 'Enroscar' is used for anything with a thread that you twist, often by hand, like a bottle cap, a lightbulb, or a hose. For example, you 'enroscas' a lightbulb but 'atornillas' a shelf bracket.

The most common word is 'desatornillar'. Some people might use 'destornillar', but 'desatornillar' is the standard opposite of 'atornillar'. You can also use 'aflojar' if you just want to loosen it.

No. 'Atornillar' only refers to the physical act of using screws. To say 'I screwed up', you should use phrases like 'metí la pata', 'cometí un error', or 'la cagué' (vulgar).

La herramienta principal es el 'destornillador' (screwdriver). También puedes usar un 'taladro' (drill) con una punta de atornillar o una 'atornilladora' eléctrica.

Sí, es un verbo totalmente regular terminado en -ar. Se conjuga como 'hablar' o 'cantar'. Esto lo hace muy fácil de usar en todos los tiempos.

En España y la mayoría de los países se dice 'destornillador'. En México y algunos países de Centroamérica, es común escuchar 'desarmador'.

Es una expresión metafórica que significa que alguien se niega a dejar su trabajo o cargo, generalmente sugiriendo que han estado allí demasiado tiempo o que no quieren dar paso a otros.

Se dice 'tornillo'. Si es un tornillo grande para construcción, a veces se llama 'perno' (bolt).

En español, al igual que en inglés, se gira 'en el sentido de las agujas del reloj' (clockwise) para atornillar. La regla es 'derecha atornillar, izquierda desatornillar'.

Sí, puedes 'atornillar' en madera, metal, plástico o cualquier material, siempre que uses el tornillo y la técnica adecuados.