papas fritas picantes
/papas fɾitas pikantes/from spelling rules
The English phrase 'hot chips' is translated into Spanish as papas fritas picantes.
Potato chips that have a spicy flavor.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to 'fried potatoes spicy'.
Which one should you use?
The word picante refers to the-heat from chili peppers, whereas caliente refers to physical temperature.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In most of Latin America, papas is the standard word for potatoes, so you would use papas fritas picantes. However, in Spain, patatas is used instead, making the phrase patatas fritas picantes.
Did you know?
- The word picante comes from the verb picar, which means 'to sting' or 'to bite'. This describes the sensation of the chili on the tongue rather than just a general flavor.
- In some Spanish-speaking regions, papas fritas can refer to thick-cut French fries rather than thin potato chips. To ensure you get the crunchy snack, you might need to use the word chips or the brand name sabritas.
- In Mexico, people often pair papas fritas picantes with limón and sal, as the acidity of the lime is believed to enhance the effect of the chili.
Examples in context
- Estas papas fritas están bien calientes, ¡me encantan!These chips are really hot, I love them!
- Me gustan las papas fritas picantes.I like spicy potato chips.
- ¿Quieres comprar papas fritas picantes?Do you want to buy hot chips?
- Estas papas fritas picantes son muy ricas.These hot chips are very delicious.
Example conversation
Lucía and Daniel are looking at snacks in a supermarket.
- LucíaDaniel, ¿compramos papas fritas picantes?Daniel, shall we buy hot chips?
- DanielSí, pero no quiero que sean demasiado fuertes.Yes, but I don't want them to be too strong.
- LucíaEstas papas fritas picantes parecen perfectas.These hot chips look perfect.
- DanielEstá bien, llévalas.Alright, take them.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
