Idioms & Expressions
C1Everyday idioms used across Latin America
About Idioms & Expressions dictation
Idioms & Expressions is a C1 (advanced) Spanish dictation topic for advanced learners refining nuance, idiom and academic Spanish. Everyday idioms used across Latin America. Listen to each sentence, type exactly what you hear, and get instant word-by-word feedback that highlights the words you missed. Practising with real, level-appropriate sentences trains your ear, spelling and grammar at the same time.
Examples of what you'll practise
- “Ese departamento frente al mar nos costó un ojo de la cara, pero no nos arrepentimos de haberlo comprado.”
- “Desde que perdió el trabajo, mi primo anda sin un peso y tiene que pedir prestado para el pasaje.”
- “Si sigues gastando a manos llenas en tonterías, a fin de mes vas a estar con el agua al cuello.”
- “Mi abuela siempre decía que el dinero no crece en los árboles, así que aprendí a ahorrar desde chico.”
- “Con tantas cuotas pendientes, apenas logramos llegar a fin de mes sin endeudarnos todavía más.”
- “Ella vive como si nadara en dinero, aunque todos sabemos que está hasta el cuello de deudas.”
Tips for C1 dictation
- Pay attention to weak forms and contractions (“gonna”, “’ve”, “to” → /tə/) — that’s where meaning hides.
- Turn on “Repeat” to auto-play each sentence 2–3 times, and use the hint key when you’re truly stuck.
- Review the words you mishear afterwards — spaced repetition brings them back at the right time.
Frequently asked questions
What level is the Idioms & Expressions dictation?
Idioms & Expressions is aimed at C1 (advanced) learners. The sentences use vocabulary and grammar suited to that level, so it’s challenging without being overwhelming.
How does dictation practice help my Spanish?
Dictation forces you to listen closely and reproduce every single word, which sharpens listening, spelling and grammar far faster than passive listening. You immediately see which words you missed and can fix them.
How should I practise the Idioms & Expressions dictation?
Listen to a sentence, type exactly what you hear, then check the word-by-word feedback. Replay or slow the audio down when you need to, use a hint if you’re stuck, and review the words you mishear afterwards.