a prueba de balas
/a ˌpɾweba de ˈbalas/
The English phrase bulletproof is translated into Spanish as a prueba de balas. Wiktionary also lists antibalas.
Meaning: capable of withstanding a bullet (adj)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA |
|---|---|
| a prueba de balas | /a ˌpɾweba de ˈbalas/ |
| antibalas | /ˌantiˈbalas/ |
The term is used to describe something capable of withstanding a bullet. The phrase a prueba de balas is commonly used as a post-modifier after a noun, such as in the phrase vidrio a prueba de balas (bulletproof glass).
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase a prueba de balas literally means proof against bullets.
Which one should you use?
While a prueba de balas is a descriptive phrase used for various objects, antibalas is a compound adjective often used for specific equipment, such as a chaleco antibalas (bulletproof vest).
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, the term a prueba de proyectiles is often used for bulletproof.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word antibalas is an invariable adjective, which means it does not change for gender or number.
How do you pronounce it?
/a ˌpɾweba de ˈbalas/
Did you know?
- While a prueba de balas refers to physical bullets, Spanish speakers use the same a prueba de construction to describe a 'foolproof' or 'error-proof' plan as a prueba de errores.
- The word balas shares a root with the Middle French balle, which originally described a small round ball or pellet rather than a modern firearm cartridge.
- The word antibalas is an invariable adjective, meaning it does not change its ending to match the gender or number of the noun it describes.
Examples in context
- Esto es vidrio a prueba de balas.This is bulletproof glass.This sentence is useful for learning how to use a prueba de balas after a noun.Tatoeba #10063118 by manufrutos, translation #10062005 by ddnktr
- Tom llevaba un chaleco antibalas, así que la bala no le mató.Tom was wearing a bulletproof vest, so the bullet didn't kill him.This sentence shows how to use the adjective antibalas when describing equipment.Tatoeba #1116453 by Shishir, translation #1103210 by CK
- Por favor, proporcióneme un chaleco a prueba de balas.Please provide me with a bulletproof vest.
- Necesitamos vehículos blindados para garantizar la seguridad.We need armored vehicles to ensure security.
- ¡Ese coche es totalmente a prueba de balas!That car is totally bulletproof!
- Me gustaría comprar una chaqueta antibalas.I would like to buy a bulletproof jacket.
- El coche es a prueba de balas.The car is bulletproof.
Example conversation
Alejandro and María are discussing security measures for a client.
- María¿Es este coche a prueba de balas?Is this car bulletproof?
- AlejandroSí, María, es totalmente a prueba de balas.Yes, María, it is totally bulletproof.
- MaríaMe alegra saberlo, es muy necesario.I am glad to know that, it is very necessary.
- AlejandroTu seguridad es nuestra prioridad, María.Your security is our priority, María.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “bulletproof” translations and entries a prueba de balas, antibalas, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries a, antibalas, de, prueba, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
