Spanish Phrase
El cubo está rebosando.
Meaning
This phrase describes a container that has reached its maximum capacity and is now spilling its contents over the edges. It uses the present progressive tense to indicate that the action is happening right at this moment.
When to use
Use this phrase when you notice water, sand, or any material spilling out of a bucket. It is most common during household cleaning, gardening, or construction tasks.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Elcuboestárebosando
El cubo
A masculine noun phrase. 'El' is the definite article 'the' and 'cubo' means 'bucket'.
Present Continuous
Formed by the verb 'estar' (está) followed by the gerund ending in '-ando' for -ar verbs.
🗨In Conversation
¡Cuidado! El cubo está rebosando.
Watch out! The bucket is overflowing.
¡Ay, no! Se me olvidó cerrar el grifo.
Oh, no! I forgot to turn off the tap.
✕Common Mistakes
El cubo es rebosando.
Use 'estar' instead of 'ser' for continuous actions and temporary states.
El cubo está rebosado.
Use the gerund form 'rebosando' to express that the action is currently in progress.
↔Alternatives
El cubo se está desbordando.
The bucket is overflowing/spilling over.
El cubo está demasiado lleno.
The bucket is too full.
Cultural Tip
While 'cubo' is the standard term for bucket in Spain, many Latin American countries prefer the word 'balde'. Additionally, the verb 'rebosar' is often used metaphorically to describe intense emotions, such as 'rebosar de felicidad' (to overflow with happiness).