salir por la puerta grande
Lemma Details
Translation: to leave with honor; to go out in glory; to exit triumphantly; to leave on a high note
Part of Speech: idiom
Etymology: This Spanish idiom literally means 'to exit through the big door/main gate' and originates from bullfighting tradition. In bullfighting, a matador who performs exceptionally well is honored by being allowed to exit the arena through the main gate (puerta grande) on the shoulders of spectators. Over time, this expression has expanded beyond bullfighting to describe any honorable or triumphant departure or conclusion.
Commonality: 60%
Guessability: 30%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Después de veinte años en la empresa, el director salió por la puerta grande con una gran fiesta de jubilación.
After twenty years at the company, the director left with honor with a big retirement party.
El equipo ganó el campeonato y salió por la puerta grande de la temporada.
The team won the championship and ended the season on a high note.
El torero cortó dos orejas y salió por la puerta grande de Las Ventas.
The bullfighter cut two ears and left triumphantly through the main gate of Las Ventas.
Mnemonics
- Think of a triumphant matador being carried through the main gate on fans' shoulders - the ultimate honor.
- Visualize walking through grand double doors to thunderous applause rather than slipping out a side exit.
- Remember 'grande' (big/great) connects to doing something great and leaving with greatness.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This expression is deeply rooted in Spanish bullfighting culture but has expanded to general use in sports, business, politics, and personal achievements. It represents the Spanish cultural value of honor and dignified success. The idiom is used throughout the Spanish-speaking world, even in countries where bullfighting is not practiced.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'salir por la puerta grande' means to leave honorably or triumphantly, 'salir por piernas' means to run away or flee quickly, often from danger or trouble.
Notes: The contrast between these expressions highlights the difference between an honorable exit and a hasty retreat.
Mnemonic: 'Grande' (big/great) suggests honor and triumph, while 'piernas' (legs) suggests using your legs to run away.
Explanation: 'Salir por la puerta grande' specifically refers to leaving with honor and triumph, often at the end of something, while 'salir airoso' means to come out of a difficult situation successfully or unscathed.
Confused word:
A pesar de las dificultades, salió airoso de la situación.
Despite the difficulties, he came out of the situation successfully.
Notes: 'Salir airoso' can apply to any situation overcome successfully, while 'salir por la puerta grande' typically refers to concluding something important with honor.
Mnemonic: 'Puerta grande' focuses on the honor of the exit itself, while 'airoso' (successful/unscathed) focuses on overcoming challenges.