portalápices
/poɾtalapiθes/from spelling rules
The English phrase "pen holder" is translated into Spanish as portalápices.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a compound of porta (from portar, to carry) and lápices (pencils).
How does it change in a sentence?
portalápices is a masculine noun, used as el portalápices for "the pen holder".
How do you pronounce it?
/poɾtalapiθes/
Did you know?
- While portalápices refers to the object, the word lápiz comes from the Latin lapis, which means 'stone'. This is because early writing tools were made of slate or lead ore.
- The word portalápices ends in a plural -ces but is treated as a singular noun when preceded by the article el.
- If you are in a shop in Mexico, you might find a portalápices referred to as a lapicero, which can also mean a 'pen' itself.
Examples in context
- Por favor, ¿puede indicarme dónde puedo encontrar un portaplumas?Please, can you tell me where I can find a pen holder?
- Me gustaría adquirir un soporte para bolígrafos para mi escritorio.I would like to purchase a pen holder for my desk.
- ¿Podría recomendarme un buen organizador de plumas para mi oficina?Could you recommend a good pen holder for my office?
- Mira esta caja para lápices tan colorida, ¡es perfecta para guardar mis bolis!Look at this colorful pen holder, it's perfect for storing my pens!
- Necesito un portalápices para mi escritorio.I need a pen holder for my desk.
- El portalápices es de color azul.The pen holder is blue.
- ¿Dónde pusiste el portalápices?Where did you put the pen holder?
Example conversation
Alejandro and Elena are organizing a home office.
- Alejandro¿Tienes un portalápices nuevo?Do you have a new pen holder?
- ElenaSí, está sobre la mesa.Yes, it is on the table.
- AlejandroGracias, es muy bonito.Thanks, it is very pretty.
- ElenaMe alegra que te guste.I'm glad you like it.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
