cuentas
/kwentas/from spelling rules
In Spanish, "beads" is translated as cuentas.
The word refers to small decorative objects with a hole for stringing, typically used to make jewelry. Note that cuentas is a homonym. Depending on the context, it can also mean "accounts" (such as bank accounts) or "counts/tallies."
Which one should you use?
While cuentas is the general term for beads, it can be confused with its other meanings of "accounts" or "counts."
Is it said differently in some regions?
Different regions favor specific terms: in Mexico, chaquiras is typically used for beads. In Argentina, mostacillas is the most common word. And in Spain, abalorios is a primary term. Note that mostacillas is often used specifically for very small decorative beads, such as seed beads used in embroidery or jewelry making.
How does it change in a sentence?
The singular form of cuentas is cuenta.
How do you pronounce it?
/kwentas/
Did you know?
- The word cuentas is used in the common expression rendir cuentas, which means to provide a formal explanation or justify one's actions. While it literally translates to 'rendering accounts', it describes the act of being held accountable.
- While cuentas is the general term, the Mexican word chaquiras specifically evokes a deep indigenous tradition of intricate beadwork used to denote social status and tribal identity in various ethnic groups.
- The term abalorios used in Spain is often used to describe anything of little value or even 'trinkets' in a dismissive way.
Examples in context
- Las piedras se conectaban a lo largo de las líneas como cuentas en un collar.Stones were being connected along the lines like beads on a string.This sentence uses cuentas to describe stones being connected like beads on a string.Tatoeba #10410848 by carlosalberto, translation #10410354 by carlosalberto
- Puedes jugar a Go usando lo que tengas, como fichas de póquer, cuentas, botones, monedas, etc. No necesitas usar piedras de Go.You can play Go using whatever you have, such as poker chips, beads, buttons, coins, etc. You do not need to use Go stones.This sentence uses cuentas as an example of items that can be used as game pieces.Tatoeba #10359281 by carlosalberto, translation #10359279 by carlosalberto
- Compré unas cuentas bellas para mi pulsera.I bought some beautiful beads for my bracelet.
- Le gusta hacer manualidades con abalorios coloridos.She enjoys crafting with colorful beads.
- En México tienen tradiciones de trabajos en chaquiras muy elaboradas.In Mexico, they have intricate beadwork traditions.
- Compré cuentas de cristal para hacer un collar.I bought glass beads to make a necklace.
Example conversation
Javier and María are looking at a craft supply box.
- Javier¿Tienes suficientes cuentas para el proyecto?Do you have enough beads for the project?
- MaríaSí, tengo muchas cuentas de colores en la caja.Yes, I have many colored beads in the box.
- JavierPerfecto, entonces podemos empezar a trabajar.Perfect, then we can start working.
- MaríaMuy bien, yo buscaré el hilo también.Very well, I will look for the thread too.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
