cada dedo
/kada dedo/from spelling rules
cada dedo is the Spanish phrase for "each finger".
The phrase refers to every individual digit on a person's hand.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of cada (each/every) and dedo (finger/toe).
Which one should you use?
In Spanish, the word dedo is used for both fingers and toes, whereas English distinguishes between the two.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word cada is always followed by a singular noun, even when referring to a group of items.
Did you know?
- In Spanish, the phrase sacar el dedo (literally 'to take out the finger') is a common way to describe the gesture of giving someone the middle finger.
- The phrase poner el dedo en la llaga (to put the finger in the wound) is a common idiom meaning to touch upon a sensitive or painful subject.
- The root of dedo comes from a Proto-Indo-European word meaning 'to show' or 'point out'. This reflects how fingers were historically used as tools for pointing.
Examples in context
- Cada dedo tiene una uña.Each finger has a nail.
- Le duele cada dedo de la mano.Each finger on his hand hurts.
- Debes vendar cada dedo por separado.You must bandage each finger separately.
Example conversation
Sofía is teaching Alejandro how to play a piano chord.
- SofíaDebes apoyar cada dedo en una tecla.You must place each finger on a key.
- AlejandroEs muy difícil mantener la posición.It is very difficult to keep the position.
- SofíaToma tu tiempo, Alejandro.Take your time, Alejandro.
- AlejandroCreo que ya lo tengo.I think I've got it now.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries cada, dedo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
