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Question

Difficulty: MediumInterpreting Vocabulary and Idioms in Context

An advertisement flyer for a new community library and cultural hub in Madrid contains the following translated paragraph:

'To celebrate our grand opening this Saturday, we are going to *tirar la casa por la ventana*! We will have free poetry readings, complimentary local pastries, and live acoustic music. We want this first day to be unforgettable for our neighbors, so everything will be completely free of charge.'

Based on the context of the promotional advertisement, what is the meaning of the italicized Spanish idiomatic expression '*tirar la casa por la ventana*'?

  1. To celebrate lavishly and spare no expenseAnswer
  2. B
    To physically throw old household items out of a window during a clean-up
  3. C
    To sell the organization's property to fund future projects
  4. D
    To relocate the cultural hub to a larger residential building

Answer

To celebrate lavishly and spare no expense
The correct answer stating 'To celebrate lavishly and spare no expense' is correct because the Spanish idiom 'tirar la casa por la ventana' (literally 'to throw the house out the window') figuratively means to spare no expense or go all out for an event. In the context of a grand opening offering free activities, food, and music, the idiom refers to the lavish celebration organized for the neighborhood.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the promotional context of the advertisement.
The text describes a grand opening event for a community library that offers free music, pastries, and workshops, aiming to make the day unforgettable.
Understanding the surrounding context helps determine the tone and intent behind the vocabulary used.
2
Evaluate the italicized Spanish expression in the context of the grand opening details.
The expression 'tirar la casa por la ventana' is linked to offering free services, food, and entertainment, signifying that the organizers are sparing no effort or expense for the event.
Identifying the link between the idiom and the described actions reveals its figurative meaning rather than a literal one.
3
Select the option that matches the figurative meaning of the expression.
The option describing celebrating lavishly and sparing no expense is selected.
This choice correctly translates the idiom's figurative meaning, whereas the other options rely on literal translations, false cognates, or unwarranted inferences.

Key Concept

Interpreting Spanish idiomatic expressions within promotional materials by analyzing surrounding contextual clues.
Estimated Time:1m 30s
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Topics

Interpreting Vocabulary and Idioms in Context