verb

echar

pour · put · throw away

Es hacer que algo o alguien salga de un lugar o poner algo en otro sitio.

Definition & meaning

The verb echar is one of the most versatile and frequently used verbs in the Spanish language. Depending on the context, it can have several distinct meanings:

To throw, toss, or cast: This is the most literal meaning, referring to the act of propelling something away from oneself.
To pour or put: Used commonly in culinary or daily contexts, such as adding ingredients to a dish or pouring a liquid into a container.
To fire or expel: In professional or social contexts, it means to dismiss someone from their job or to kick someone out of a place.
To start or begin: When used in the form "echar a + infinitive," it indicates the start of an action, such as "echar a correr" (to start running).
To miss: When paired with the word "de menos," it means to miss someone or something.
To play or cast (a game): Often used when referring to games of chance, such as "echar una partida" (to play a game).

Grammar & Word origin

Grammar:

echar is a regular -ar verb.
It is a transitive verb, meaning it usually requires a direct object to complete its meaning.
It is frequently used in idiomatic expressions (phrasal verbs) like "echar de menos" (to miss) or "echar una mano" (to lend a hand).

Origin: