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B1 noun #6,000 most common 9 min read

grill

Top 6,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips grill in 30 Seconds

Explanation grill in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should focus on 'la parrilla' as a simple noun related to food and cooking. Think of it as part of your kitchen vocabulary. You might learn it alongside words like 'la cocina' (the kitchen), 'la carne' (the meat), and 'el fuego' (the fire). At this stage, you only need to know that 'la parrilla' is the object you use to cook a 'hamburguesa' or 'pollo' when you are outside. You should also recognize the phrase 'a la parrilla' on a menu, as it tells you how the food is cooked. It is a feminine word, so you say 'la parrilla'. Practice saying 'Me gusta la carne a la parrilla' to express your food preferences. Don't worry about the metaphorical meanings yet; just focus on the physical grill and the delicious food that comes from it. You might see it in pictures of families having a picnic or a party in a garden. It is a very common word in Spanish-speaking cultures because eating together outdoors is very popular.

At the A2 level, you begin to use 'la parrilla' in more descriptive sentences and understand its role in social contexts. You can talk about what you are doing with the grill using simple verbs like 'limpiar' (to clean), 'encender' (to light/turn on), and 'poner' (to put). For example, 'Voy a encender la parrilla para la cena'. You also learn to distinguish between 'la parrilla' (the tool) and 'la barbacoa' (the event). At this level, you might describe a past event: 'Ayer comimos pescado a la parrilla'. You should also be aware of regional differences, such as the importance of the 'asado' in South America where the 'parrilla' is the centerpiece of the home. You can start using adjectives to describe the grill, like 'parrilla eléctrica' or 'parrilla de carbón'. This helps you communicate more specific needs when shopping or ordering food. You are moving beyond just naming the object to describing actions and preferences associated with it.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'la parrilla' in various contexts, including culinary, technical, and metaphorical. You understand that 'a la parrilla' is a standard way to describe grilled food on any menu. You also learn the word 'parrillada', which refers to a mixed grill dish, and how it differs from the physical 'parrilla'. In this stage, you might encounter the word in a different context: 'la parrilla de televisión', which means the TV program schedule. This shows you how Spanish uses physical shapes (like a grid) to describe abstract concepts (like a time schedule). You can also use the word in the context of cars, referring to the radiator grille. Your ability to use 'la parrilla' with different prepositions (en, a, de, sobre) becomes more natural. You can explain the process of grilling: 'Primero hay que calentar la parrilla, luego se pone la carne y se le da la vuelta'. This level requires a deeper understanding of how the word fits into the broader culture of Spanish-speaking countries.

At the B2 level, you use 'la parrilla' with nuance and can participate in detailed discussions about cooking techniques or media schedules. You understand the cultural significance of 'la parrilla' in countries like Argentina and Uruguay, where it is not just a tool but a symbol of national identity. You can discuss the pros and cons of different types of grills, such as 'parrilla de leña' (wood grill) versus 'parrilla de gas'. You are also familiar with idiomatic expressions or more formal uses, such as 'parrilla de salida' in racing (starting grid). Your vocabulary includes related terms like 'brasas' (embers), 'parrillero' (the grill master), and 'marcar' (to sear). You can write a review of a restaurant (una parrilla) and describe the quality of the service and the food. You are able to use the word in complex sentence structures, such as: 'Si hubiéramos limpiado la parrilla antes, la carne no se habría pegado'. This level shows a high degree of control over the word's various meanings and its grammatical environment.

At the C1 level, your understanding of 'la parrilla' is near-native. You appreciate the subtle differences between 'parrilla', 'asador', 'fogón', and 'anafe'. You can engage in technical conversations about the metallurgy of a 'parrilla de acero inoxidable' or the thermodynamics of heat distribution. You use the word metaphorically with ease, discussing the 'parrilla de contenidos' of a digital streaming platform or the 'parrilla de salida' of a political race. You understand regional slang and variations—for example, how 'estar en la parrilla' might be used in some contexts to mean being in a difficult or high-pressure situation (similar to 'in the hot seat'). You can analyze literature or film where the 'parrilla' serves as a setting for family conflict or reconciliation. Your use of the word is precise, and you can switch between formal and informal registers depending on whether you are at a high-end 'parrilla' restaurant in Buenos Aires or a casual 'barbacoa' in Madrid. You also recognize historical references to the word, such as the martyrdom of San Lorenzo on a 'parrilla'.

At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of 'la parrilla' and its place in the Spanish language's history and evolution. You can discuss the etymology of the word, tracing it back to the Latin 'parra'. You are aware of the most obscure uses, such as in specialized engineering or historical architecture. You can use the word in creative writing to evoke specific sensory details or cultural atmospheres. You understand the nuances of 'parrilla' in different dialects across the entire Spanish-speaking world, from the 'parrillas' of the Andean regions to the 'parrilladas' of the Caribbean. You can lead a seminar on the 'parrilla de programación' in the context of 20th-century media history. Your command of the word allows you to use it in puns, wordplay, and sophisticated irony. You are not only fluent in the word's usage but also its cultural connotations, including the socio-economic implications of the 'parrilla' culture in various Hispanic societies. At this level, 'la parrilla' is just one of many tools in your expansive linguistic repertoire, used with total precision and cultural sensitivity.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

grill in 30 Seconds

La parrilla is the Spanish word for a metal grill or grate used for cooking over fire.
It is also used to describe a TV schedule (parrilla de programación) and a racing starting grid.
The phrase 'a la parrilla' is used on menus to mean 'grilled'.
It is a feminine noun (la parrilla) and is central to Hispanic culinary culture.

The Spanish word la parrilla refers primarily to the metal grate or gridiron used for cooking food over an open flame or bed of coals. While an English speaker might use the word 'grill' to describe the entire appliance, the cooking method, or even the social event, Spanish speakers often distinguish between the physical tool (la parrilla), the cooking style (a la parrilla), and the social gathering (often called una barbacoa or un asado depending on the region). Understanding 'la parrilla' is essential for anyone interested in Hispanic culinary traditions, especially in regions like Argentina, Uruguay, and Northern Mexico, where grilling is a central pillar of social and family life.

Physical Object: The actual metal structure where meat, vegetables, or fish are placed. It can be a simple portable grate or a large built-in brick structure.
Cooking Method: Technique involving radiant heat. In menus, you will see 'Pollo a la parrilla' (Grilled chicken) or 'Verduras a la parrilla' (Grilled vegetables).
The Restaurant: In many Latin American countries, a 'parrilla' is also the name of a steakhouse or a restaurant specializing in grilled meats.

El chef puso los filetes sobre la parrilla bien caliente para sellar los jugos.

Historically, the parrilla evolved from simple iron rods used by gauchos in the pampas of South America. They would cook entire carcasses of beef using minimal tools. Today, the design has become sophisticated, with adjustable heights and V-shaped channels to drain fat, but the name remains the same. It is a word that evokes the smell of charcoal, the sound of sizzling fat, and the warmth of a gathering. In Spain, you might hear 'parrilla' used interchangeably with 'plancha' in casual conversation, though a 'plancha' is technically a flat metal plate without the gaps of a grill. However, if you are looking for that smoky, charred flavor, 'parrilla' is the word you need to know.

¿Prefieres la carne cocinada a la parrilla o al horno?

Beyond the kitchen, 'parrilla' has found its way into media and entertainment. In Spain and Latin America, the 'parrilla de programación' refers to a television or radio schedule—the 'grid' of shows planned for the day or week. This metaphorical use highlights the 'grid-like' nature of the physical object. Whether you are ordering a 'parrillada mixta' (a mixed grill platter) or checking the TV schedule, the word 'parrilla' is ubiquitous. It is a B1 level word because it moves beyond basic food vocabulary into specific cultural practices and secondary meanings.

Using 'la parrilla' correctly involves understanding its role as a noun and how it interacts with prepositions. The most common prepositional phrase is a la parrilla, which functions as an adjective or adverb describing how something was prepared. For example, 'salmón a la parrilla' (grilled salmon). Note that in Spanish, the article 'la' is almost always required when referring to the object itself.

Direct Object: Limpié la parrilla después de usarla. (I cleaned the grill after using it.)
Location: Pon las salchichas en la parrilla. (Put the sausages on the grill.)
Descriptive: Esa parrilla eléctrica es muy eficiente. (That electric grill is very efficient.)

El secreto de una buena parrilla es mantener la temperatura constante.

When talking about verbs associated with 'parrilla', you will frequently use asar (to roast/grill). While 'grillear' is an anglicism sometimes heard in border regions or among bilingual speakers, it is generally considered incorrect in standard Spanish. Instead, use 'cocinar a la parrilla' or 'hacer una parrillada'. If you are describing the action of putting something on the heat, use 'echar a la parrilla' or 'poner en la parrilla'.

In more advanced contexts, you might use 'parrilla' to describe the front part of a car (the radiator grille). For example, 'La parrilla del coche se dañó en el accidente' (The car's grill was damaged in the accident). This shows the versatility of the word beyond the culinary world. In professional kitchens, 'la parrilla' can also refer to the station where the grill chef works. 'Juan está a cargo de la parrilla hoy' (Juan is in charge of the grill station today).

Toda la familia se reunió alrededor de la parrilla para esperar la comida.

You will encounter the word parrilla in a variety of real-world settings, ranging from the most casual backyard gatherings to high-end gastronomic environments. In the Southern Cone (Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, Paraguay), the 'parrilla' is a sacred object. If you are invited to an 'asado', you will undoubtedly hear people discussing the state of the 'parrilla', whether it’s too high, too low, or if it needs more 'carbón' (charcoal).

At a Restaurant: The waiter might ask: '¿Desea su chuletón a la parrilla o a la piedra?' (Do you want your ribeye grilled or on hot stone?)
At a Hardware Store: You might ask: '¿Tienen parrillas de acero inoxidable?' (Do you have stainless steel grills?)
In Media: 'La parrilla televisiva de este verano incluye muchos programas de telerrealidad.' (The TV schedule this summer includes many reality shows.)

En el mercado central, el olor a carne en la parrilla atrae a cientos de turistas.

In Mexico, while 'asado' is used, 'carne asada' is the common term for the event, but the physical object is still the 'parrilla'. You might hear someone say, 'Limpia la parrilla con una cebolla' (Clean the grill with an onion)—a common traditional trick where a halved onion is rubbed on the hot grate to sanitize and season it. In professional culinary schools across the Spanish-speaking world, 'Parrilla' is a specific module of study where students learn about different types of wood (leña) and how they affect the flavor of the food.

Finally, in the context of sports or racing, 'parrilla de salida' is the term for the starting grid. When watching Formula 1 in Spanish, the commentator will say, 'Fernando Alonso sale desde la tercera posición de la parrilla' (Fernando Alonso starts from the third position on the grid). This wide range of applications makes 'parrilla' a fascinating word that bridges the gap between the kitchen, the living room, the racetrack, and the auto shop.

One of the most frequent errors English speakers make is using the word grill directly in Spanish sentences. While some people might understand you, it sounds very foreign. Another common mistake is confusing 'parrilla' with 'barbacoa'. In many Spanish-speaking countries, 'barbacoa' refers to the social event or a specific pit-cooking method (especially in Mexico), whereas 'parrilla' is the specific metal tool used for direct grilling.

Parrilla vs. Plancha: A 'plancha' is a flat, solid metal plate. A 'parrilla' has bars with spaces in between. If you want those charred lines on your steak, ask for 'parrilla'.
Parrilla vs. Asador: An 'asador' can be the person cooking, the restaurant, or a larger spit-roasting device. 'Parrilla' is more specific to the grate.

Incorrecto: Quiero el pollo al grill.
Correcto: Quiero el pollo a la parrilla.

Another mistake is gender agreement. Because 'parrilla' ends in 'a', it is feminine. Students often say 'el parrilla' because the English word 'grill' feels masculine or neutral. Always use 'la'. Additionally, don't confuse 'parrilla' with 'parrillada'. 'Parrilla' is the tool; 'parrillada' is the meal consisting of various grilled meats. If you say 'Me gusta comer la parrilla', it sounds like you enjoy eating metal! You should say 'Me gusta la parrillada' or 'Me gusta la comida a la parrilla'.

Lastly, be careful with the metaphorical uses. Don't use 'parrilla' to mean 'to grill someone' (interrogate). In Spanish, to interrogate someone harshly is 'interrogar' or 'freír a preguntas' (to fry with questions), or more informally, 'poner en un aprieto'. Using 'parrillear' to mean 'to question' will result in confusion. Stick to the culinary or organizational (TV schedule) meanings to stay safe.

While la parrilla is the most common term, several other words occupy the same semantic space. Depending on the country and the specific type of cooking, you might choose a different word to be more precise. For example, in Argentina, while the grate is the 'parrilla', the entire brick structure and the act of cooking is the 'asador'.

La Barbacoa: Often refers to the social event (like a BBQ party) or the specific Mexican method of slow-cooking meat in a pit.
La Plancha: A flat metal griddle. Common for seafood and thin cuts of meat in Spain.
El Fogón: A more rustic term for a fire pit or a place where fire is made for cooking.
La Rejilla: A general term for any small grid or rack, such as the cooling rack for cookies or the rack inside an oven.

Cocinamos las gambas a la plancha, pero el chuletón fue a la parrilla.

In technical contexts, like automotive engineering, you might hear 'calandra' instead of 'parrilla' for the car's front grille, though 'parrilla' is much more common in everyday speech. If you are talking about the 'grill' on a window or a security gate, the word is 'reja'. It's important to distinguish these because 'parrilla' is almost exclusively associated with heat, fire, and organizational grids.

Understanding these nuances will make your Spanish sound much more natural. For instance, if you are at a Spanish 'chiringuito' (beach bar), you will likely see 'pescado a la espalda' or 'pescado a la parrilla'. The former is a specific way of cutting the fish before grilling it. Using the right term shows a deep appreciation for the culinary culture you are engaging with.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The term 'parrilla' was used for architectural grids long before it became the standard word for a cooking tool.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /pəˈrɪlə/

US /pəˈriːə/

The stress is on the second syllable: pa-RRI-lla.

Rhymes With

silla mejilla ardilla pastilla mantequilla bombilla semilla vajilla

Common Errors

Pronouncing the double 'll' as a single 'l' (pa-ree-la).
Rolling the 'rr' too softly or not at all.
Misplacing the stress on the last syllable (pa-rri-LLÁ).
Confusing the pronunciation with the English word 'gorilla'.
Using the English 'grill' sound instead of the Spanish 'a' and 'i' sounds.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Easy to recognize in menus and news, but metaphorical uses require context.

Writing 4/5

The double 'rr' and 'll' can be tricky for beginners to spell correctly.

Speaking 5/5

Requires the ability to roll the 'rr' and pronounce the 'll' correctly.

Listening 4/5

Regional variations in the 'll' sound (y vs sh) can be confusing.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

carne fuego cocinar hierro comer

Learn Next

asado brasas carbón adobar sazonar

Advanced

programación automoción martirio retícula irradiación

Grammar to Know

Gender of nouns ending in -illa

La parrilla, la silla, la mejilla (almost always feminine).

Double 'rr' pronunciation

Parrilla requires a strong trill of the tongue.

Use of 'a la' for cooking methods

A la parrilla, a la plancha, a la estaca.

Preposition 'en' for location

La carne está en la parrilla (on top of it).

Agreement of adjectives

Parrilla limpia, parrillas sucias.

Examples by Level

La parrilla está caliente.

The grill is hot.

Simple subject + verb 'estar' + adjective.

Me gusta la carne a la parrilla.

I like grilled meat.

The phrase 'a la parrilla' acts as an adjective.

Pon el pollo en la parrilla.

Put the chicken on the grill.

Imperative 'pon' + preposition 'en'.

¿Dónde está la parrilla?

Where is the grill?

Question with 'dónde' and 'estar'.

Comemos pescado a la parrilla.

We eat grilled fish.

Present tense 'comemos'.

La parrilla es negra.

The grill is black.

Describing a permanent characteristic with 'ser'.

Necesito una parrilla nueva.

I need a new grill.

Noun 'parrilla' modified by adjective 'nueva'.

El fuego está bajo la parrilla.

The fire is under the grill.

Prepositional phrase 'bajo la'.

Mañana vamos a usar la parrilla para la fiesta.

Tomorrow we are going to use the grill for the party.

Future 'ir a + infinitive'.

Mi padre limpia la parrilla cada domingo.

My father cleans the grill every Sunday.

Present tense describing a routine.

No pongas las verduras todavía en la parrilla.

Don't put the vegetables on the grill yet.

Negative imperative 'no pongas'.

La parrilla de mi abuelo es muy grande.

My grandfather's grill is very big.

Possessive 'de' + noun.

Compramos una parrilla eléctrica para el balcón.

We bought an electric grill for the balcony.

Preterite 'compramos' and specific type of grill.

El olor de la parrilla es delicioso.

The smell of the grill is delicious.

Noun phrase as a subject.

¿Sabes cómo encender la parrilla?

Do you know how to light the grill?

Verb 'saber' + 'cómo' + infinitive.

Ella prefiere la verdura a la parrilla.

She prefers grilled vegetables.

Verb 'preferir' + noun.

He visto la parrilla de televisión y no hay nada bueno.

I've seen the TV schedule and there's nothing good.

Metaphorical use for a schedule/grid.

La carne se pegó a la parrilla porque no estaba bien aceitada.

The meat stuck to the grill because it wasn't well oiled.

Reflexive 'se pegó' and causal 'porque'.

Fuimos a una parrilla argentina muy famosa en el centro.

We went to a very famous Argentine steakhouse downtown.

Using 'parrilla' to mean a type of restaurant.

La parrilla del coche se rompió tras el impacto.

The car's grille broke after the impact.

Technical use for a car part.

Si quieres un sabor ahumado, usa una parrilla de leña.

If you want a smoky flavor, use a wood grill.

Conditional 'si' + present.

El parrillero giró la carne con mucha habilidad.

The grill master turned the meat with great skill.

Related noun 'parrillero'.

Me encanta la parrillada mixta que sirven aquí.

I love the mixed grill they serve here.

Distinction between 'parrilla' and 'parrillada'.

Asegúrate de que la parrilla esté a la altura correcta.

Make sure the grill is at the correct height.

Subjunctive 'esté' after 'asegúrate de que'.

El piloto saldrá desde la pole position en la parrilla de salida.

The driver will start from pole position on the starting grid.

Sports terminology 'parrilla de salida'.

La grasa gotea a través de la parrilla y aviva las llamas.

The fat drips through the grill and fans the flames.

Verbs of movement and consequence.

Es fundamental limpiar la parrilla mientras aún está tibia.

It is essential to clean the grill while it is still warm.

Impersonal expression 'es fundamental'.

La nueva parrilla de programación busca atraer a un público más joven.

The new programming grid aims to attract a younger audience.

Abstract usage in business/media.

Aunque sea una parrilla pequeña, cocina la carne de maravilla.

Even though it's a small grill, it cooks the meat wonderfully.

Concessive 'aunque' + subjunctive.

El diseño de la parrilla permite que el calor se distribuya uniformemente.

The design of the grill allows the heat to be distributed evenly.

Subjunctive 'se distribuya' after 'permitir que'.

No hay nada como el sonido de la carne chisporroteando en la parrilla.

There is nothing like the sound of meat sizzling on the grill.

Gerund 'chisporroteando' as a modifier.

Pusieron a los candidatos en la parrilla con preguntas muy difíciles.

They put the candidates on the grill with very difficult questions.

Metaphorical use for interrogation/pressure.

La disposición de los elementos en la parrilla influye en el ahumado.

The arrangement of elements on the grill influences the smoking process.

Precise vocabulary 'disposición', 'influir'.

El coche clásico destaca por su imponente parrilla cromada.

The classic car stands out for its impressive chrome grille.

Descriptive 'destacar por'.

San Lorenzo fue martirizado en una parrilla, según la tradición.

Saint Lawrence was martyred on a gridiron, according to tradition.

Historical/Religious reference.

La cadena de televisión ha modificado su parrilla para cubrir las elecciones.

The TV network has modified its schedule to cover the elections.

Compound tense 'ha modificado'.

Una parrilla mal nivelada puede arruinar la cocción de las piezas más delicadas.

An unevenly leveled grill can ruin the cooking of the most delicate pieces.

Past participle 'nivelada' as adjective.

El chef defendió el uso de la parrilla abierta frente al horno de brasas.

The chef defended the use of the open grill over the charcoal oven.

Comparing technical cooking methods.

En la parrilla de salida, la tensión se palpaba en el ambiente.

On the starting grid, the tension was palpable in the air.

Idiomatic 'se palpaba en el ambiente'.

La porosidad del hierro fundido en la parrilla es clave para el sabor.

The porosity of the cast iron in the grill is key to the flavor.

Technical noun 'porosidad'.

La obsolescencia de la parrilla de programación tradicional es evidente en la era del streaming.

The obsolescence of the traditional programming grid is evident in the streaming era.

Abstract academic vocabulary.

El intrincado diseño de la parrilla del radiador denota una ingeniería superior.

The intricate design of the radiator grille denotes superior engineering.

Sophisticated verbs 'denotar' and adjectives 'intrincado'.

Aquel asado se convirtió en una oda a la parrilla, con cortes magistrales.

That barbecue became an ode to the grill, with masterful cuts.

Literary/Metaphorical language.

Se debate si la parrilla de salida debería invertirse para aumentar el espectáculo.

It is debated whether the starting grid should be reversed to increase the spectacle.

Passive 'se debate' + subjunctive 'invertirse'.

La parrilla, como artefacto cultural, trasciende la mera funcionalidad culinaria.

The grill, as a cultural artifact, transcends mere culinary functionality.

Philosophical/Sociological tone.

La pátina de grasa en la parrilla vieja aportaba un matiz insustituible al sabor.

The grease patina on the old grill provided an irreplaceable nuance to the flavor.

Specific terms like 'pátina' and 'matiz'.

El crítico gastronómico diseccionó la técnica del parrillero con suma precisión.

The food critic dissected the grill master's technique with utmost precision.

High-level vocabulary 'diseccionó', 'suma'.

Bajo la parrilla de luces, el escenario cobró una dimensión onírica.

Under the lighting grid, the stage took on a dreamlike dimension.

Alternative use for lighting structures.

Common Collocations

limpiar la parrilla

a la parrilla

parrilla de salida

parrilla de programación

parrilla eléctrica

parrilla de carbón

encender la parrilla

poner en la parrilla

parrilla de hierro

marcas de parrilla

Common Phrases

carne a la parrilla

— Meat cooked on a grill.

La carne a la parrilla es típica de Argentina.

verduritas a la parrilla

— Grilled small vegetables, often as a side dish.

Acompañamos el plato con verduritas a la parrilla.

pollo a la parrilla

— Grilled chicken.

El pollo a la parrilla estaba muy jugoso.

parrilla de luces

— A grid or rack of lights, common in theater or film.

La parrilla de luces falló durante el concierto.

parrilla de radio

— Radio broadcast schedule.

Escuché el anuncio en la parrilla de radio de la mañana.

estar en la parrilla

— To be ready to be cooked (or metaphorically, ready to start).

Los proyectos ya están en la parrilla para el próximo año.

parrilla frontal

— Front grille of a car.

La parrilla frontal del nuevo modelo es más ancha.

hacer una parrilla

— To have a barbecue (common in some regions).

Vamos a hacer una parrilla este sábado.

parrilla giratoria

— A rotating grill or rotisserie.

Cocinamos el cordero en una parrilla giratoria.

parrilla doble

— A sandwich-style grill that holds food between two grates.

Usa la parrilla doble para que el pescado no se rompa.

Often Confused With

grill vs barbacoa

Barbacoa is the event or a pit-style cooking; parrilla is the metal grate.

grill vs plancha

Plancha is a solid flat surface; parrilla has bars with gaps.

grill vs rejilla

Rejilla is a general small grid; parrilla is specifically for grilling or large structures.

Idioms & Expressions

"poner toda la carne en la parrilla"

— To go all out; to put all one's efforts or resources into something.

Para ganar el campeonato, el equipo puso toda la carne en la parrilla.

informal

"estar en la parrilla de salida"

— To be at the starting point of a new venture or phase.

Estamos en la parrilla de salida de un nuevo proyecto tecnológico.

neutral

"quemarse en la parrilla"

— To fail publicly or to be under intense scrutiny.

El ministro se quemó en la parrilla de la opinión pública.

metaphorical

"saltar de la parrilla al fuego"

— Similar to 'out of the frying pan and into the fire' (less common than 'caer de la sartén al fuego').

Cambió de trabajo y saltó de la parrilla al fuego.

rare

"tener algo en la parrilla"

— To have something planned or in preparation.

Tenemos varias sorpresas en la parrilla para el final del show.

informal

"parrilla de combate"

— A state of readiness for action.

El ejército está en parrilla de combate.

military/slang

"ser un parrillero"

— To be someone who loves or is an expert at grilling.

Mi tío es un parrillero de corazón.

colloquial

"darle a la parrilla"

— To grill food frequently or as a main activity.

Este verano le hemos dado mucho a la parrilla.

informal

"parrilla caliente"

— A situation that is difficult to handle.

Ese debate fue una parrilla caliente para el presentador.

metaphorical

"asado en la parrilla"

— Something that is certain to happen.

Ese contrato ya está asado en la parrilla.

regional/slang

Easily Confused

grill vs parrillada

Sounds similar to parrilla.

Parrilla is the tool; parrillada is the meal of various grilled meats.

Compré una parrilla para hacer una parrillada.

grill vs asador

Used in similar contexts.

Asador can be the person, the restaurant, or a spit-roast; parrilla is the grate.

El asador puso el pollo en la parrilla.

grill vs grilla

Direct cognate of 'grid'.

Grilla is often used for abstract grids (schedules) in LatAm, while parrilla is the physical tool.

La grilla de canales es la misma que la parrilla de programación.

grill vs reja

Both involve metal bars.

Reja is a security gate or window bars; parrilla is for cooking or schedules.

Puse una reja en la ventana y una parrilla en el jardín.

grill vs estante

Both are structures to hold things.

Estante is a solid shelf; parrilla is a grid for heat or airflow.

Pon el libro en el estante, no en la parrilla.

Sentence Patterns

La [noun] está [adjective].

La parrilla está sucia.

Voy a [verb] la parrilla.

Voy a limpiar la parrilla.

Quiero [food] a la parrilla.

Quiero pulpo a la parrilla.

Si [condition], ponlo en la parrilla.

Si el fuego está listo, ponlo en la parrilla.

Debido a [reason], la parrilla de programación cambió.

Debido a la huelga, la parrilla de programación cambió.

Es imperativo que la parrilla [subjunctive].

Es imperativo que la parrilla esté bien nivelada.

El [noun] de la parrilla es [adjective].

El diseño de la parrilla es moderno.

¿Dónde compraste la parrilla?

¿Dónde compraste la parrilla de gas?

Word Family

Nouns

parrillada (mixed grill)

parrillero (grill master)

parrillaje (set of grills)

Verbs

emparrillar (to grill/place on a grid)

parrillear (colloquial: to grill)

Adjectives

parrillero (related to the grill)

emparrillado (gridded/grilled)

asador

brasas

carbón

leña

rejilla

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in culinary and media contexts.

Common Mistakes

El parrilla → La parrilla
Nouns ending in -illa are feminine. Always use the feminine article 'la'.
Cocinar en el grill → Cocinar a la parrilla
While 'grill' is understood, 'a la parrilla' is the correct and natural Spanish expression.
Me gusta comer la parrilla → Me gusta la carne a la parrilla
Saying you eat 'la parrilla' implies you are eating the metal grate itself.
Parrilla de programas → Parrilla de programación
While 'programas' is okay, 'programación' is the standard industry term for a schedule.
Usar parrilla para 'interrogate' → Interrogar / Freír a preguntas
The English metaphor 'to grill someone' doesn't translate literally to 'parrillear'.

Tips

Parrilla vs. Parrillada

Don't confuse the tool with the meal. If you want to eat, order a 'parrillada'. If you want to cook, buy a 'parrilla'.

The Double R

The 'rr' in parrilla is strong. Practice rolling your tongue to sound more natural when saying this word.

The Argentinian Asado

In Argentina, the person at the parrilla is the 'parrillero'. It's a role of honor; don't offer advice unless you're an expert!

Feminine Noun

Remember: 'la parrilla'. Even though 'grill' might feel masculine in English, in Spanish it follows the -a ending rule.

Cleaning Tip

Use a halved onion on a hot parrilla to clean it naturally. It's a common trick in many Spanish-speaking countries.

TV Schedules

When you hear 'parrilla' in a news context, look for mentions of programs or times—it's likely the TV schedule.

Starting Grid

In sports like Formula 1, 'parrilla de salida' is the only term used for the starting lineup.

Reading Menus

Look for 'a la parrilla' to find the healthiest options, as it usually involves less added fat than frying.

Car Talk

If someone is showing off their car's 'parrilla', they are talking about the front grille, not a cooking device.

Religious Link

San Lorenzo is often depicted with a parrilla. Knowing this helps you understand many classical Spanish paintings.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a **PAR**rot on a **RILLA** (gorilla) cooking on a **parrilla**. The parrot and the gorilla are having a BBQ.

Visual Association

Imagine the parallel lines of the grill bars forming the letter 'll' in the middle of the word pa-rri-lla.

Word Web

carne fuego carbón asado cocina hierro comida amigos

Challenge

Try to describe your favorite grilled food using only Spanish words, including 'parrilla', three times in one minute.

Word Origin

From the Spanish word 'parra' (vine/trellis), which comes from the Gothic 'parra' or 'parrjan' (to enclose/protect). The suffix '-illa' is a diminutive.

Original meaning: Originally referred to a small trellis or grid-like structure used to support vines or other plants.

Romance (Spanish), with Germanic roots.

Cultural Context

No major sensitivities, but be aware that 'parrilla' can refer to different things (car parts, TV schedules) depending on context.

English speakers often use 'BBQ' for both the event and the tool. In Spanish, use 'parrilla' for the tool and 'barbacoa' or 'asado' for the event.

San Lorenzo (the saint on the grill) La Parrilla de San Lorenzo (famous restaurant in Valladolid) Formula 1 'Parrilla de Salida'

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Cooking outdoors

¿Dónde está el carbón?
La parrilla está lista.
No quemes la carne.
Pásame las pinzas.

Ordering food

Lo quiero a la parrilla.
¿Viene con verduras?
¿Es a la parrilla o frito?
La parrillada para dos.

Watching racing

Está en la parrilla.
Mala posición de salida.
La parrilla está completa.
Semáforo en verde.

Discussing TV

¿Qué hay en la parrilla?
Cambiaron el horario.
Nueva serie en la parrilla.
Parrilla de verano.

Car maintenance

Se rompió la parrilla.
Parrilla cromada.
Limpiar el radiador.
Repuesto de parrilla.

Conversation Starters

"¿Te gusta más la comida a la parrilla o al horno?"

"¿Cuál es el secreto para que la carne no se pegue a la parrilla?"

"¿Has probado alguna vez una parrillada argentina auténtica?"

"¿Qué opinas de la actual parrilla de programación en televisión?"

"¿Prefieres las parrillas de carbón o las de gas para cocinar?"

Journal Prompts

Describe un día perfecto de verano cocinando en la parrilla con tus amigos.

Escribe una receta paso a paso para hacer el mejor pollo a la parrilla.

Compara las ventajas y desventajas de usar una parrilla eléctrica frente a una de leña.

Relata una experiencia en un restaurante tipo 'parrilla' que te haya gustado mucho.

Imagina que eres un parrillero famoso. ¿Qué consejos le darías a un principiante?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

En general, la parrilla es el objeto metálico (la rejilla) donde se pone la comida. La barbacoa suele referirse al evento social o al mueble completo que incluye la parrilla, las patas y a veces una tapa. En México, la barbacoa es también un método de cocción lenta bajo tierra.

Se dice 'a la parrilla'. Por ejemplo, 'pollo a la parrilla'. También se puede usar 'asado', aunque 'a la parrilla' es más específico sobre el uso de la rejilla.

No, también se usa para la programación de televisión (parrilla de programación), para la rejilla delantera de un coche y para la posición de salida en las carreras de coches (parrilla de salida).

Es siempre femenino: 'la parrilla'. Los sustantivos que terminan en -illa suelen ser femeninos en español.

Una parrillada es un plato que consiste en una selección de diferentes carnes, embutidos y a veces verduras, todos cocinados a la parrilla y servidos juntos.

Se recomienda limpiarla cuando aún está caliente usando un cepillo de alambre o incluso media cebolla, que ayuda a desinfectar y quitar la grasa pegada.

Es una expresión idiomática que significa arriesgarlo todo o poner todo el esfuerzo posible en una situación para lograr un objetivo.

Normalmente, la rejilla del horno se llama 'rejilla', pero en algunos contextos se puede llamar parrilla si se usa para asar directamente sobre el fuego.

Viene de 'parra', que se refería a las estructuras de madera o metal usadas para que las vides crecieran. De ahí pasó a significar cualquier estructura en forma de rejilla.

Sí, aunque la cultura de la parrilla es especialmente fuerte en Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay y el norte de México, se entiende y se usa en todo el mundo hispanohablante.