calzoncillos largos
/kalθonθiʝos laɾɡos/from spelling rules
The English phrase "long john" is translated into Spanish as calzoncillos largos.
The term refers to tight-fitting underwear worn under clothes to keep the legs warm in cold weather.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of calzoncillos (underwear or briefs) and largos (long).
Which one should you use?
While calzoncillos can mean any type of underwear or briefs, adding largos specifically specifies the long, leg-covering variety used for warmth.
How do you pronounce it?
/kalθonθiʝos laɾɡos/
Did you know?
- The term calzoncillos is built from calzón, which literally means 'pants', making the word for underwear 'little pants'.
- In several Latin American countries, the word calzas is used for these, but be careful: in some places, this same word can refer to a woman's tights or leggings.
- In Spain, calzoncillos refers exclusively to men's underwear, whereas in some Latin American countries, the term can be more gender-neutral or vary by style.
Examples in context
- Necesito unos calzoncillos largos para la nieve.I need some long johns for the snow.
- Los calzoncillos largos son muy cómodos.Long johns are very comfortable.
- ¿Dónde compraste esos calzoncillos largos?Where did you buy those long johns?
Example conversation
Daniel and María are packing for a ski trip.
- DanielMaría, ¿tienes mis calzoncillos largos?María, do you have my long johns?
- MaríaSí, están en tu maleta.Yes, they are in your suitcase.
- DanielGracias, los necesito para el frío.Thanks, I need them for the cold.
- MaríaDe nada, Daniel.You're welcome, Daniel.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
