alpargatas
/alpaɾɡatas/from spelling rules
The Spanish word for espadrilles is alpargatas.
This term refers specifically to lightweight, casual footwear that features a canvas upper and a sole made from esparto rope.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In the Valencian region of Spain, these shoes are often called espardenyes. In certain parts of Andalusia, such as the province of Jaén, you may hear the term esparteñas. In some Latin American countries like Argentina and Uruguay, they are colloquially known as alpargates.
How does it change in a sentence?
The singular form is alpargata, but the word is most commonly used in its plural form alpargatas.
How do you pronounce it?
/alpaɾɡatas/
Did you know?
- In some Spanish-speaking contexts, the word alpargata can be used metaphorically to describe someone who is considered simple or rustic. This usage is quite different from the literal meaning of the footwear.
- In Spain, alpargatas were historically the footwear of the working class and peasants, but they became a symbol of high fashion and luxury in the 1940s after being adopted by celebrities and designers.
- During the Spanish Civil War, alpargatas were often used as markers of political or regional identity among various militia groups.
Examples in context
- No puedo correr en alpargatas!I can't run in espadrilles!This sentence demonstrates that it is difficult to run while wearing alpargatas.Tatoeba #6832886 by Rockspa, translation #11267477 by Luornu
- Las alpargatas son un calzado muy cómodo y versátil.Espadrilles are very comfortable and versatile footwear.
- Las alpargatas son muy cómodas para el verano.Espadrilles are very comfortable for the summer.
- Prefiero usar alpargatas en la playa.I prefer wearing espadrilles at the beach.
Example conversation
Daniel and Sofía are shopping for summer clothes.
- Daniel¿Te gustan estas alpargatas blancas?Do you like these white espadrilles?
- SofíaSí, me encantan, son muy bonitas.Yes, I love them, they are very pretty.
- DanielCompraré unas para ti también.I will buy a pair for you too.
- SofíaGracias, Daniel, eres muy amable.Thank you, Daniel, you are very kind.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
