estar entre rejas
being behind bars
The phrase 'estar entre rejas' literally translates to 'being between bars' in English. However, the idiomatic expression is often used to mean 'behind bars' or 'in prison'. It is a metaphorical way of describing someone who is in jail or prison, just like the English phrase 'behind bars'.
Example sentences using: estar entre rejas
El ladrón temía estar entre rejas después de ser atrapado.
The thief was afraid of being behind bars after being caught.
This sentence describes a scenario where a thief fears of being jailed or imprisoned (estar entre rejas) after getting caught. It uses the phrase in a literal context, referring to actual imprisonment.
Si continúas con esta conducta, podrías estar entre rejas.
If you continue with this behavior, you could be behind bars.
This sentence uses the phrase to warn someone that their current behavior could lead to imprisonment. It emphasizes the serious repercussions of the person's actions and uses the phrase metaphorically.
A pesar de estar entre rejas, se sentía libre por dentro.
Despite being behind bars, he felt free inside.
This sentence alludes to the physical constraint of being in jail ('estar entre rejas') but contrasts it with a sense of internal freedom. It speaks to the dichotomy of physical imprisonment and internal liberty.