placa de metal
/plaka de metal/from spelling rules
The English phrase "metal plate" is translated into Spanish as placa de metal.
You may also use the common and natural alternative placa metálica, which translates to "metallic plate".
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of placa (plate), de (of) and metal (metal).
Which one should you use?
Additionally, lámina metálica is used when you want to emphasize that the metal plate is particularly thin or flat.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In certain regions, the word chapa is used to refer specifically to thin metal sheets or plates.
How does it change in a sentence?
To make the phrase plural, change the noun placa to placas while leaving metal unchanged, resulting in placas de metal.
Did you know?
- In Spain, the word chapa is used not only for a metal plate but also as a slang term for a boring or tedious speech, such as a long lecture from a teacher.
- The word placa is used in Spanish to refer to a police officer's badge, mirroring the English 'shield' or 'badge' but literally meaning a small metal plate.
- While placa refers to a plate, it is also the word used for dental plaque, the biofilm that forms on teeth.
Examples in context
- Necesitamos algunas láminas metálicas para reforzar la estructura.We need some metal plates to reinforce the structure.
- Me encanta esa chapa de metal que tienes en la pared.I love that metal plate you have on the wall.
- Necesitamos una placa de metal para la base.We need a metal plate for the base.
- La placa de metal está muy oxidada.The metal plate is very rusty.
- Corta esa placa de metal con la sierra.Cut that metal plate with the saw.
Example conversation
In a workshop, Javier and Sofía are preparing materials for a project.
- Javier¿Dónde está la placa de metal?Where is the metal plate?
- SofíaEstá sobre la mesa de trabajo, Javier.It is on the workbench, Javier.
- JavierGracias, la usaré para el soporte.Thanks, I will use it for the support.
- SofíaTen cuidado con los bordes afilados.Be careful with the sharp edges.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
