Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| sarta | /ˈsaɾta/ | feminine |
| ringlera | /rinɡleɾa/ (from spelling rules) | feminine |
| retahíla | /retaˈila/ | feminine |
The term 'array' refers to an orderly series, arrangement or sequence. In Spanish, you can use sarta to describe a string of things, whether they are physical objects or metaphorical concepts. If you are referring to a long, tedious or repetitive sequence of words or events, retahíla is the more precise choice.
Which one should you use?
While sarta refers to a physical or metaphorical string, retahíla specifically implies a long, tedious or repetitive sequence of words or events. If you wish to express the idea of a 'bunch' or a 'heap' in an informal context, you might use montón. For a more formal way to express an array or arrangement, use arreglo.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
All the primary forms provided, sarta, ringlera and retahíla, are feminine nouns. The related verb arreglar means to clothe or ornament.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈsaɾta/
Did you know?
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, retahílas are not just lists of words but rhythmic oral traditions used to decide who is 'it' in a children's game.
- While sarta describes an array, it is the standard term used in the common idiom sarta de mentiras to describe a 'string of lies'.
- The word sarta comes from the Latin word 'sarta', which refers to something that has been sewn or patched together.
Examples in context
- El arreglo de datos es impresionanteThe array of data is impressive
- La matriz contiene los valores necesariosThe array contains the necessary values
- El arreglo de elementos está ordenadoThe array of elements is sorted
- La matriz tiene una estructura tridimensionalThe array has a three-dimensional structure
- Una sarta de perlas brillantes.A string of bright pearls.
- Me contó una sarta de mentiras.He told me a whole string of lies.
- Llevaba una sarta de cuentas de colores.She was wearing a string of colored beads.
Example conversation
Alejandro and María are looking at a jewelry display in a shop.
- Alejandro¿Te gusta esa sarta de cuentas?Do you like that string of beads?
- MaríaSí, es una sarta muy bonita.Yes, it is a very beautiful string.
- AlejandroEs un regalo perfecto para ella.It is a perfect gift for her.
- MaríaTienes razón, le encantará.You are right, she will love it.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “array” translations and entries sarta, retahíla, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries retahíla, sarta, CC BY-SA 4.0.
