Are you wondering how to express the word “scratched” in Spanish? Whether you need to describe a scratched surface, a minor wound, or even a scratched record, this comprehensive guide will equip you with various translations, including formal and informal alternatives. Join us on this linguistic journey and discover helpful tips, common phrases, and regional variations when discussing scratches in Spanish.
Table of Contents
Formal Translations for “Scratched”
When it comes to formal settings or situations, such as professional environments, business meetings, or providing a respectful tone, you can employ the following translations for “scratched”:
- “Arañado” – This is the most common term used in formal scenarios. It accurately conveys the idea of something being scratched. For example:
“El coche tiene la pintura arañada.” (The car has the paint scratched.)
- “Rayado” – Similar to “arañado,” “rayado” indicates an object or surface being scratched or marked with lines. It can also denote etching or scoring. For instance:
“Alguien ha rayado la mesa con un cuchillo.” (Someone has scratched the table with a knife.)
- “Desgarrado” – This term is often used when referring to fabric or materials that have been torn or scratched. For example:
“Mi pantalón quedó desgarrado tras rascarlo con una rama.” (My pants got scratched and torn after scraping them with a branch.)
Informal Ways to Express “Scratched”
In casual conversations, informal settings, or when speaking among friends and family, you might encounter different expressions to describe “scratched.” Here are a few alternatives to use in those circumstances:
- “Rayado/a” – Just like in a formal context, you can use the word “rayado” informally to indicate that something is scratched:
“Mira, tu teléfono está rayado.” (Look, your phone is scratched.)
- “Rasguñado/a” – This term is commonly employed when referring to the act of scratching or being scratched, especially in the context of an injury or skin condition:
“¡Me caí mientras jugaba y quedé rasguñado/a por todas partes!” (I fell while playing and got scratched all over!)
- “Marcado/a con arañazos” – This phrase can be used when an object or surface has visible marks or scratches:
“El libro de mi hermano está marcado con arañazos de mi gato.” (My brother’s book is marked with scratches from my cat.)
Tips and Examples
Here are a few additional tips and examples to enhance your understanding of expressing “scratched” in Spanish:
Tips:
- Context Matters: Consider the context in which you’re using the word “scratched” to choose the most appropriate translation. The object, the surface, or the type of scratching will all influence your choice.
- Use Adjectives: Sometimes, instead of using a direct translation for the verb “scratched,” employing an adjective can effectively communicate the same idea. For instance, you could say “una superficie dañada” (a damaged surface) to imply scratching.
- Consider Regional Variations: While the translations provided are widely used across Spanish-speaking regions, it’s essential to note that certain variations might exist. Always be ready to adapt and learn from locals when traveling or interacting with different Spanish speakers.
Examples:
Let’s explore a few examples to illustrate the usage of different translations for “scratched”:
“Mi gato arañó el sofá nuevo.” (My cat scratched the new sofa.) [Formal]
“Ángel se cayó en el parque y volvió a casa con los codos rasguñados.” (Ángel fell in the park and came home with scraped elbows.) [Informal]
“La pantalla de mi teléfono móvil está rayada.” (The screen of my cell phone is scratched.) [Formal]
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve successfully learned how to express “scratched” in Spanish. Remember to adapt your vocabulary based on the formality of the situation and consider the context and regional variations. Now, you can confidently describe scratches in whichever setting you may find yourself. Enjoy expanding your Spanish language skills and continue exploring more exciting linguistic adventures!
