varios lápices
/baɾjos lapiθes/from spelling rules
The English phrase "multiple pencils" is translated into Spanish as varios lápices.
This phrase is used to refer to more than one pencil.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word lápices is the plural form of the singular noun lápiz. The adjective varios must agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies.
How do you pronounce it?
/baɾjos lapiθes/
Did you know?
- The word lápiz comes from the Latin lapis, which means 'stone'. This is because the earliest writing tools were pieces of slate or stone.
- In traditional Spanish schools, the phrase sacar punta is used when one needs to sharpen varios lápices, literally meaning 'to take out the point'.
- In some Spanish-speaking regions, a 'pencil' that is actually a colored pencil is called lápiz de color, but in others, it is referred to as colorín.
Examples in context
- El profesor tiene varios lápices en su escritorio.The teacher has several pencils on his desk.
- La tienda ofrece muchos lápices diferentes.The store offers many different pencils.
- Hoy compré un montón de lápices de colores.Today I bought a bunch of colored pencils.
- ¿Puedes prestarme unos cuantos lápices?Can you lend me a few pencils?
- Tengo varios lápices en mi mochila.I have several pencils in my backpack.
- ¿Puedes comprar varios lápices para la clase?Can you buy several pencils for the class?
- Hay varios lápices sobre la mesa.There are several pencils on the table.
Example conversation
Daniel and Sofía are preparing for an art class.
- DanielSofía, ¿tienes varios lápices para dibujar?Sofía, do you have several pencils for drawing?
- SofíaSí, tengo varios lápices en mi estuche.Yes, I have several pencils in my case.
- DanielPerfecto, ¿me puedes prestar uno?Perfect, can you lend me one?
- SofíaClaro, Daniel, toma este.Sure, Daniel, take this one.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
