platos de papel
/platos de papel/from spelling rules
The English phrase "paper plates" is translated into Spanish as platos de papel.
The term refers to disposable plates made from paper or cardboard.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of platos (plates), de (of) and papel (paper).
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Argentina, people often use the term Platos Descartables to talk about paper plates.
How does it change in a sentence?
To refer to a single paper plate, use the singular form plato de papel. When referring to multiple plates, the noun platos is pluralized, while the material papel remains singular.
How do you pronounce it?
/platos de papel/
Did you know?
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, providing platos de papel at a formal gathering can be seen as a sign of extreme informality or a lack of hospitality.
- While 'paper' and papel look very similar, they are both descendants of the Greek word πάπυρος, which refers to the papyrus plant. This means the very words for 'paper' in both languages are actually names for an ancient plant.
- In many Spanish-speaking countries, you might hear the word desechables used for a wide variety of single-use items. This term can cover everything from 'paper plates' to 'plastic spoons' and 'napkins' under one umbrella concept.
Examples in context
- ¿Cuánto cuestan diez platos de papel?How much do ten paper plates cost?This sentence is useful for asking about the cost of platos de papel.Tatoeba #436180 by lukaszpp, translation #436179 by lukaszpp
- Diez platos de papel cuestan un dólar.Ten paper plates cost one dollar.This sentence is useful for stating the price of platos de papel.Tatoeba #462511 by lukaszpp, translation #462510 by lukaszpp
- Los platos de madera son más ligeros que los platos de metal, pero los platos de papel son los más ligeros.The wooden plates are lighter than the metal plates, but the paper plates are the lightest.This sentence is useful for comparing the weight of different types of plates, specifically platos de papel.Tatoeba #463033 by lukaszpp, translation #463032 by lukaszpp
Example conversation
Sofía and Daniel are preparing for a picnic.
- SofíaNecesitamos comprar platos de papel para el picnic.We need to buy paper plates for the picnic.
- DanielTienes razón, así no tendremos que lavar nada.You're right, that way we won't have to wash anything.
- SofíaDaniel, ¿puedes traer los platos de papel de la cocina?Daniel, can you bring the paper plates from the kitchen?
- DanielClaro, los busco ahora mismo.Sure, I'll look for them right now.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries de, papel, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
