What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of medias (socks/stockings), hasta (until/up to) and la rodilla (the knee).
Which one should you use?
While medias hasta la rodilla is the most precise way to describe this length, you may encounter calcetines altos to describe socks that are simply taller than standard ankle socks. Additionally, Medias altas can specifically refer to knee high socks in informal settings.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, medias hasta la rodilla is the commonly used term. In certain Latin American countries, Medias hasta la pantorrilla (socks reaching the calf) is sometimes used to denote knee high socks.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase is feminine and plural, so if you use an adjective to describe them, the adjective must also be feminine and plural (e.g., medias largas).
Did you know?
- The word rodilla for 'knee' comes from the Late Latin rotella, which means 'little wheel'.
- While medias refers to the socks in this phrase, the same word is used in Spanish to describe the 'medium' size of a garment or a 'middle' position.
- The word medias is often used to refer to both thin stockings and thicker socks, which can create confusion if you are looking for heavy winter gear.
Examples in context
- quiero comprar medias/calcetas hasta la rodillaI want to buy knee high socks
- Ella lleva medias hasta la rodilla negras.She is wearing black knee high socks.
- Necesito comprar medias hasta la rodilla para el uniforme.I need to buy knee high socks for the uniform.
- Esas medias hasta la rodilla son muy cómodas.Those knee high socks are very comfortable.
Example conversation
Daniel and Elena are shopping for school supplies and clothes.
- Daniel¿Dónde están las medias hasta la rodilla?Where are the knee high socks?
- ElenaEstán en la sección de accesorios, Daniel.They are in the accessories section, Daniel.
- DanielGracias, voy a buscarlas ahora.Thanks, I'm going to look for them now.
- ElenaAsegúrate de que sean blancas para la escuela.Make sure they are white for school.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries hasta, la, medias, rodilla, CC BY-SA 4.0.
