pinza para el pelo
/pinθa paɾa el pelo/from spelling rules
The English phrase hair clip is translated into Spanish as pinza para el pelo.
This phrase refers to a clip used to hold back the hair. You may also see it referred to as a barrette.
Meaning: clip to hold back the hair (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of pinza (clip or pincer), para (for) and el pelo (the hair).
Which one should you use?
gancho para el pelo is a common alternative that can mean either hair clip or hair hook.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico, a popular term for a hair clip is pinza para el cabello.
How do you pronounce it?
/pinθa paɾa el pelo/
Did you know?
- In Spanish, pinza is the same word used for tweezers, meaning the word for 'hair clip' and 'tweezers' is identical.
- The word pelo shares a common ancestor with the English word 'pile', specifically referring to the fine, short hair found on certain animals.
- While you might use pinza for a clip, if you use the word pinza in a different context, it can also mean 'pincers' or 'tongs' used in a kitchen or workshop.
Examples in context
- Me encanta tu pasador para el pelo. ¿Dónde lo compraste?I love your hair clip. Where did you buy it?
- El ganchito que llevas en el pelo se ve muy bonito.The hair clip you are wearing in your hair looks very pretty.
- Necesito una pinza para el pelo.I need a hair clip.
- Esa pinza para el pelo es muy bonita.That hair clip is very pretty.
- Busco una pinza para el pelo pequeña.I am looking for a small hair clip.
Example conversation
Elena and Daniel are shopping for accessories at a store.
- Elena¿Te gusta esta pinza para el pelo?Do you like this hair clip?
- DanielSí, es muy elegante, Elena.Yes, it is very elegant, Elena.
- ElenaCreo que me la voy a comprar.I think I'm going to buy it.
- DanielTe quedará muy bien.It will look great on you.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries el, para, pelo, pinza, CC BY-SA 4.0.
