toque de queda

/ˈto.ke ðe ˈke.ða/
phraseIntermediate💡 curfew
⚖️Law
formal

A legally mandated restriction on public movement during specific hours, typically at night, to maintain public order or safety.

El toque de queda comienza a las 10 p.m. y termina a las 6 a.m.

The curfew starts at 10 p.m. and ends at 6 a.m.

La policía patrulla las calles para hacer cumplir el toque de queda.

The police patrol the streets to enforce the curfew.

💡

Commonly used during states of emergency, protests, or natural disasters.

Related Phrases

quedarse en casaphrase
to stay at home
estado de emergenciaphrase
state of emergency

💡Pro Tip

Legal Context

The phrase is often used in formal legal and governmental contexts, not casual conversation.

Gold Rule

Enforcement

A toque de queda is legally enforceable, and violations may result in penalties.

📖Word Origin

From Spanish 'toque' (strike/tap) and 'quedar' (to remain), originally referring to the sound of a bell signaling the end of public activity.

📝Usage Notes

In modern usage, it refers to a government-imposed restriction on movement during specific hours, often enforced by law enforcement.

Word Breakdown

toque
strike or signal
root
+
de
of
preposition
+
quedar
to remain
root
Diccionario Español-Inglés