las piernas
/las pjeɾnas/from spelling rules
las piernas is the Spanish phrase for "the legs.".
This phrase refers to the limbs used for standing and walking.
Which one should you use?
Las extremidades inferiores is a formal expression that refers to the lower extremities of the body. Las patas is a colloquial term used in informal conversations, often playfully or jokingly.
How does it change in a sentence?
The singular form is la pierna.
How do you pronounce it?
/las pjeɾnas/
Did you know?
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, if someone has piernas de algodón, it does not mean their legs are soft but that they are shaking from fear or exhaustion.
- To describe someone who is very clumsy or unsteady on their feet, Spanish speakers might say they have piernas de trapo, meaning 'rag legs'.
- In some Spanish-speaking regions, calling a person piernona is a common, though sometimes cheeky, way to comment on someone having large or shapely legs.
Examples in context
- El paciente se ha lastimado las extremidades inferiores durante el accidente.The patient has injured his lower extremities during the accident.
- Después de correr tanto, mis patas están cansadas.After running so much, my legs are tired.
- Me duelen las piernas.My legs hurt.
- Me duelen las piernas de tanto caminar.My legs hurt from walking so much.
- Ella tiene las piernas muy largas.She has very long legs.
- Debes estirar las piernas después de correr.You should stretch your legs after running.
Example conversation
Sofía and Alejandro are talking after a long hike.
- SofíaEstoy muy cansada, me pesan las piernas.I am very tired, my legs feel heavy.
- AlejandroYo también, caminamos mucho hoy, Sofía.Me too, we walked a lot today, Sofía.
- Sofía¿Quieres descansar un momento aquí?Do you want to rest for a moment here?
- AlejandroSí, necesito descansar las piernas.Yes, I need to rest my legs.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
