contextura
/konteɡsˈtuɾa/
The English phrase 'body frame' is translated into Spanish as contextura.
contextura refers to the size and shape of a person's skeleton and physical build. To describe a specific type of body frame, use the preposition 'de' followed by contextura and an adjective, such as de contextura robusta (of a sturdy build).
Which one should you use?
The word complexión is a very common synonym for contextura when referring to a person's physical build.
How do you pronounce it?
/konteɡsˈtuɾa/
Did you know?
- The word complexión is often used in medical or formal contexts to discuss a person's overall constitution. In English, 'complexion' almost exclusively refers to skin color or quality, but in Spanish, it describes the entire physical build.
- While contextura describes a person's build, the same word is used in Spanish to describe the weave or density of a fabric.
- While English speakers use 'frame' as a metaphor for the skeleton, contextura comes from the Latin 'contextus', meaning a weaving together or a joining.
Examples in context
- La constitución corporal de María es delgada y elegante.Maria's body frame is thin and elegant.
- Mi amigo tiene una estructura corporal atlética debido al ejercicio regular que realiza.My friend has an athletic body frame due to regular exercise.
- Me gusta su complexión, se ve muy saludable.I like his body frame, he looks very healthy.
- Tiene una contextura muy robusta.He has a very robust body frame.
- Su contextura es delgada y alta.Her body frame is thin and tall.
- La ropa le queda bien por su contextura.The clothes fit him well because of his body frame.
Example conversation
Daniel and Sofía are discussing a new coworker at the office.
- Daniel¿Has visto al nuevo empleado?Have you seen the new employee?
- SofíaSí, tiene una contextura muy atlética.Yes, he has a very athletic body frame.
- DanielEs cierto, parece un deportista.It's true, he looks like an athlete.
- SofíaSeguro que entrena mucho.He surely trains a lot.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry contextura, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
