chaqueta
standard, everyday
In Puerto Rico a jacket is a chaqueta. For a heavy winter coat people say abrigo. It is also called Sudadera.
Meaning: light outer garment (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | Note |
|---|---|
| chaqueta | standard, everyday |
| Abrigo | heavier coat |
| Sudadera | hooded sweatshirt |
Because the island is warm, a chaqueta usually means a light jacket for rain or air conditioning. Abrigo is mostly used for trips to cold places.
Which one should you use?
A hoodie or sweatshirt is a sudadera. Do not mix it up with chaqueta, which usually has a front opening or zipper.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Be careful with this word in other countries. In some Latin American countries chaqueta also has a vulgar slang meaning, so the word is safest when you clearly mean clothing.
Did you know?
- Many Puerto Ricans keep a light jacket handy because malls and cinemas run strong air conditioning in a warm climate.
Examples in context
- Llevo una chaqueta por si llueve.I am bringing a jacket in case it rains.
- Hace frío en el cine, trae una chaqueta.It is cold in the movie theater, bring a jacket.
- Compré un abrigo para el viaje a Nueva York.I bought a coat for the trip to New York.
Example conversation
Ana reminds her son Daniel before they leave for the movies in Bayamón.
- AnaDaniel, lleva una chaqueta.Daniel, take a jacket.
- DanielMami, hace calor.Mom, it is hot.
- AnaSí, pero el cine está bien frío.Yes, but the theater is really cold.
