Spanish Phrase
La ventana está atascada.
Meaning
This phrase describes a window that cannot be moved or opened due to a mechanical obstruction or friction. It uses the verb 'estar' to indicate a temporary state or condition rather than a permanent characteristic.
When to use
Use this phrase when reporting a maintenance issue in a house, hotel, or apartment. It is also useful when asking for help to open a window that won't budge.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Laventanaestáatascada
La ventana
A feminine noun phrase; 'la' is the definite article 'the' and 'ventana' means 'window'.
Está
The third-person singular form of 'estar', used to describe temporary states or locations.
Atascada
The past participle of 'atascar' used as an adjective, meaning 'stuck' or 'jammed'.
🗨In Conversation
¿Puedes abrir la ventana? Hace calor.
Can you open the window? It is hot.
Lo intenté, pero la ventana está atascada.
I tried, but the window is stuck.
✕Common Mistakes
La ventana es atascada.
Avoid using 'ser' for states or conditions; 'estar' is the correct verb for being stuck.
La ventana está atascado.
Adjectives must agree in gender with the noun; 'ventana' is feminine, so use 'atascada'.
↔Alternatives
No puedo abrir la ventana.
I can't open the window.
La ventana no se abre.
The window won't open.
Cultural Tip
In many older Spanish or Latin American buildings, humidity can cause wooden frames to swell, making 'atascada' a very common term. When talking to a landlord or maintenance worker, using 'está atascada' clearly identifies a physical blockage rather than a broken lock.