Example: A veces hay que dar una de cal y otra de arena para enseñar.
Definition
"Dar una de cal y otra de arena" is a Spanish expression meaning to alternate between criticism and praise or between strictness and kindness, often used to describe a balanced approach to teaching or managing situations.
Translations
to be inconsistent
wisselende signalen geven
donar una de freda i una de calenta
souffler le chaud et le froid
mal so mal so handeln
Etymology
The phrase "dar una de cal y otra de arena" literally translates to 'give one of lime and another of sand.' It originates from traditional masonry, where lime and sand are mixed to make mortar. The expression metaphorically suggests mixing harsh and gentle actions to achieve a balanced effect.
Learn to use this expression actively
"Dar una de cal y otra de arena" appears in the Vocaplus list "Spanish - General - Modismos y refranes - (C2) - parte 1", containing 105 commonly used expressions.
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to be inconsistent