alteraciones
/alteɾaθjones/from spelling rules
The English phrase "alterations" is translated into Spanish as alteraciones.
alteraciones refers to changes made to the structure or state of something, such as modifications in a system. While it can be applied to clothing, it often carries a more technical, medical or systemic connotation, such as alterations in a biological system or a computer program. When you are specifically referring to alterations made to clothing, such as shortening sleeves, Spanish speakers more commonly use the word arreglos.
Which one should you use?
While alteraciones is a general term for alterations, you can use different words depending on the context and desired level of formality. For a formal context involving changes or modifications, you might use modificaciones. For a more general way to express the concept, you can use cambios. If you are referring to small alterations, touch-ups or minor adjustments, the informal term retoques is appropriate. In the specific context of garment adjustments, arreglos is the standard choice over alteraciones.
How does it change in a sentence?
The singular form of the noun is alteración.
How do you pronounce it?
/alteɾaθjones/
Did you know?
- While alteraciones describes a change, in a legal or civic context it can specifically refer to a 'disturbance of the peace' or a public riot, as in alteraciones del orden público.
- The word arreglos used for clothing alterations literally means 'arrangements' or 'fixes', coming from the verb arreglar which can mean anything from tidying a room to repairing a car.
- If you ask a tailor for alteraciones on a suit, they might think you are talking about a medical or psychological disturbance rather than a hem adjustment.
Examples in context
- Estoy solicitando algunas modificaciones en el proyecto.I am requesting some alterations to the project.
- Necesito realizar algunos cambios en mi vestido para que me quede perfecto.I need to make some alterations to my dress so that it fits perfectly.
- Después de la dieta, tuve que hacer algunos arreglos en mi ropa.After the diet, I had to make some alterations to my clothes.
- Las fotografías necesitan algunos retoques para resaltar los colores.The photographs need some alterations to enhance the colors.
- Hubo alteraciones en el plan original.There were alterations to the original plan.
Example conversation
Elena and Alejandro are discussing a suit at a tailor shop.
- ElenaAlejandro, ¿el traje necesita alteraciones?Alejandro, does the suit need alterations?
- AlejandroSí, las mangas están muy largas.Yes, the sleeves are too long.
- ElenaPuedo encargarme de esas alteraciones hoy.I can take care of those alterations today.
- AlejandroMuchas gracias, Elena.Thank you very much, Elena.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
