andar a tres menos cuartillo — meaning & examples

Meanings:

• 1.

  Spainarchaicregional
  • Literally, to be at or near quarter to three (approximately 2:45); used historically to indicate an approximate time.
  • An old or regional expression implying that the time, situation, or condition is slightly short of a full or expected state (figurative use).

  Examples

  Beta

  • El reloj marcaba andar a tres menos cuartillo cuando decidió salir de casa.

    The clock showed it was about quarter to three when he decided to leave the house.

  • Recuerdo que la reunión terminó andar a tres menos cuartillo, justo antes de la cena.

    I remember the meeting ended at about quarter to three, just before dinner.

  • Andábamos a tres menos cuartillo y aún faltaban varios invitados por llegar.

    It was around quarter to three and several guests had still not arrived.

  • El tren salió andar a tres menos cuartillo, según el anuncio en la estación.

    The train departed at about quarter to three, according to the announcement at the station.