cadena de bicicleta
/kadena de biθikleta/from spelling rules
The Spanish phrase for "bicycle chain" is cadena de bicicleta.
This phrase refers to the metal chain that connects a bicycle's pedals to its rear wheel.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is built from cadena (chain) and de bicicleta (of bicycle).
Is it said differently in some regions?
In many Latin American countries, the term cadena de la bicicleta is used. In Spain, you will commonly hear the word cadena to refer to the bicycle chain.
How does it change in a sentence?
To make the phrase plural, you change the noun cadena to cadenas while keeping de bicicleta singular.
Did you know?
- Spanish uses cadena to describe a 'broadcast chain' or television network, which is not common in English.
- If a chain breaks, a mechanic might say that it 'se ha roto la cadena', but in a metaphorical sense, romper la cadena can also mean to break a habit or a cycle.
- The word bicicleta is built from the Latin prefix bi- for 'two' and the Greek word kúklos for 'circle' or 'wheel'.
Examples in context
- Es esencial mantener el piñón y la cadena limpiosIt is essential to keep the gear and bicycle chain clean
- ¿Has revisado la cadena de la bici?Have you checked the bicycle chain?
- La cadena de bicicleta está muy sucia.The bicycle chain is very dirty.
- Necesito comprar una cadena de bicicleta nueva.I need to buy a new bicycle chain.
Example conversation
María and Mateo are looking at a bike in the garage.
- MaríaMateo, mira la cadena de bicicleta.Mateo, look at the bicycle chain.
- MateoParece que está muy oxidada.It looks very rusty.
- María¿Puedes arreglarla tú?Can you fix it?
- MateoSí, solo necesito algunas herramientas.Yes, I just need some tools.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries bicicleta, cadena, de, CC BY-SA 4.0.
