Spanish word of the day: Echar una mano

What does echar una mano mean?

Echar una mano (idiomatic expression) – Literally “to throw a hand,” this friendly Spanish idiom means to help someone out or give a hand with a task. It’s used whenever someone offers assistance, whether it’s something small like carrying groceries or bigger like helping with a project.

Example sentences with echar una mano

• ¿Puedes echarme una mano con estas cajas?
  📦 Can you give me a hand with these boxes?

• Siempre estoy dispuesto a echar una mano cuando un amigo lo necesita.
  🤝 I’m always willing to help when a friend needs it.

• Gracias por echarme una mano con la mudanza.
  🏠 Thanks for helping me with the move.

This idiom uses the verb “echar”. If you need to remember how to conjugate it, our conjugation tables te pueden echar una mano!

Echar una mano in context

You’ll hear echar una mano all the time in Spanish-speaking countries because helping each other is a big part of daily life and culture. This phrase is informal and warm, perfect for asking for or offering help without making it a big deal. It can be used in all kinds of situations-from family gatherings to work environments-whenever someone needs support.

If you want to sound natural and friendly in Spanish, use echar una mano whenever you talk about helping out or pitching in. It’s a great way to show solidarity and kindness, and it makes everyday interactions feel more personal and cooperative. So next time you want to ask for help or offer it, just say, “¿Me echas una mano?” Additionaly, you might also hear “echar un cable”, which means the same thing.