"Neil Coffey" <neil@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
> wrote in message
news:g027kb$ltu$1@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
> Michelle C wrote:
>
>> The english word, "get" is proving to be an elusive word to translate
to
>> Spanish. My dictionary has a complete page devoted to the
word...obtain,
>> acquire, bring, etc. The problem is that I don't know which is
customary
>> to use in the following type sentence: I will get the mail. Or I will
>> get the ball.
>
> Hi Michelle,
>
> English 'get' is a very "functional" verb and to translate it into many
> languages it can help to try and find a synonym that "gets" to the
bottom
> of what you're really trying to say. So instead of thinking
> about how to translate "I'll get the mail", think about how to translate
> "I'll go for the mail" (ir ****) or "I'll bring/fetch the mail" (traer).
> (Actually, 'get' could even be synonyms for things like "I'll open
> the mail", "I'll deal with the mail" and probably
> other possibilities...)
>
> Neil
Hola Neil,
I see what you mean. My first inclination was to substitute a suitable
specific verb for "get", but I've found sometimes there are customary ways
of saying things, and was afraid that although I'd be understood, I'd
sound
like an idiot. I can already sound like an idiot without added
challenges.
;-) However, you have answered my question, and I appreciate it.
Muchas gracias!
Michelle


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