carita feliz
/kaɾita feliθ/from spelling rules
The English phrase "happy face" is translated into Spanish as carita feliz.
carita feliz refers to a smiling face drawn as a symbol or used as an emoji to show happiness. When you are referring specifically to the digital icon, you can say emoji de carita feliz.
What does it mean word for word?
The term carita feliz literally means "little face happy". The word carita is a diminutive of cara (face), meaning "little face".
How does it change in a sentence?
To express the plural "happy faces", use caritas felices, where both the noun and the adjective are pluralized.
How do you pronounce it?
/kaɾita feliθ/
Did you know?
- Calling an adult's face a carita instead of a cara can be perceived as patronizing or excessively affectionate depending on the context.
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, a carita feliz is not just a digital symbol but can be used as a physical grade or sticker given to children in school to indicate a job well done.
- The word feliz shares a common ancestor with the English word 'felicity', which refers to intense happiness or a pleasing quality.
Examples in context
- El anciano tenía un rostro alegreThe elderly man had a happy face.
- Mostró una cara contenta al recibir la noticiaShe showed a happy face upon receiving the news.
- Ella me envió un mensaje con una carita sonrienteShe sent me a message with a smiling face.
- El bebé tenía un rostro contento mientras jugabaThe baby had a happy face while playing.
- Dibujé una carita feliz en el cuaderno.I drew a happy face in the notebook.
- Usa una carita feliz en el mensaje.Use a happy face in the message.
- El sticker tiene una carita feliz muy grande.The sticker has a very large happy face.
Example conversation
Alejandro and Elena are texting each other about a funny video.
- Alejandro¿Viste el mensaje que te envié?Did you see the message I sent you?
- ElenaSí, tiene una carita feliz muy graciosa.Yes, it has a very funny happy face.
- AlejandroMe alegra que te haya gustado.I am glad you liked it.
- Elena¡Es muy linda!It is very cute!
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries carita, feliz, CC BY-SA 4.0.
