esfero
everyday, Ecuador
In Ecuador a pen is called an esfero. The standard word bolígrafo is understood too.
Meaning: ink writing instrument (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | Note |
|---|---|
| esfero | everyday, Ecuador |
| Bolígrafo | standard |
Students and office workers ask ¿Me prestas un esfero? to borrow a pen. Esfero is short for esferográfico.
Which one should you use?
In other Spanish speaking countries the same object is called bolígrafo, lapicera or birome, so esfero marks Ecuadorian speech.
Did you know?
- Esfero is short for esferográfico, the ballpoint pen.
Examples in context
- Escribe con esfero azul.Write with a blue pen.
- Necesito un bolígrafo negro.I need a black pen.
Example conversation
Mateo asks a classmate for a pen before an exam in Quito.
- MateoDisculpa, ¿me prestas un esfero?Excuse me, can I borrow a pen?
- ValeriaClaro, toma.Of course, here.
- MateoGracias, te lo devuelvo.Thanks, I will give it back.
