barrer las calles
sweep the streets
The Spanish phrase 'barrer las calles' translates to 'sweep the streets' in English. It's derived from the verb 'barrer' which means 'to sweep' in English, while 'las calles' means 'the streets'. This phrase could be used in contexts related to cleaning or maintenance tasks, such as municipal or local cleaning services who perform this job regularly. It could also be used metaphorically, for instance when talking about a comprehensive or thorough cleaning, changing or reforming process.
Example sentences using: barrer las calles
Mi abuelo se dedicaba a barrer las calles por las mañanas.
My grandfather used to sweep the streets in the mornings.
This sentence uses the phrase 'barrer las calles' to express the routine action performed by the grandfather within a specific timeframe, which is in the mornings. The verb 'barrer' is in the past referring that it was a habitual action.
No es fácil barrer las calles durante el invierno.
It is not easy to sweep the streets during winter.
In this example, 'barrer las calles' denotes an action that presents difficulty due to an external condition, which is, in this case, the winter season. The adverb 'no' negates the simplicity of the action, emphasizing the challenge it presents during the cold season.
Se los contrató para barrer las calles después del desfile.
They were hired to sweep the streets after the parade.
In this sentence, 'barrer las calles' is part of the description of a job that was hired to be completed after a specific event, which is the parade. The phrase illustrates a work agreement related to cleaning the streets.