la del pulpo

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Spanish

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Etymology

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Literally, the one of the octopus"; more accurately, "the octopus treatment. Octopuses are often given a beating when prepared to ensure that their meat stays tender before and after cooking.

Noun

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la del pulpo f (uncountable)

  1. (idiomatic) a severe scolding or reprimand; a ticking-off
    Se ha reunido con el jefe y le ha dado la del pulpo por lo de los informes.
    He has had a meeting with the boss and he was given a real ticking-off for the trouble with the reports.
  2. (idiomatic, uncountable, dated) a beating, usually given to a child by his parents

Derived terms

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