escaparate
/eskapaˈɾate/
The English phrase 'showcase' can be translated into Spanish using several different words depending on whether you mean a physical display or the act of showing something. The default form is escaparate.
When used as a noun, escaparate can be used metaphorically to describe a setting that showcases something favorably. If you intend to use 'showcase' as a verb meaning to display or demonstrate, the Spanish verb exhibir is often a more natural choice than using the noun escaparate.
Meaning: to display, demonstrate, show, or present (verb)
Which one should you use?
The choice of word depends on the specific type of display. While escaparate often refers to the large window facing the street, vitrina typically refers to a glass cabinet or case used inside a shop or museum to display items. Additionally, demostración is a formal term that can convey the idea of presenting and displaying something.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, escaparate is the standard term for a shop window, whereas in many Latin American countries, vitrina is more common for the same purpose.
Related words
How do you pronounce it?
/eskapaˈɾate/
What mistakes should you avoid?
When using 'showcase' as a verb (to display or demonstrate), the Spanish verb exhibir is often a more natural choice than using the noun escaparate.
Did you know?
- The word escaparate actually traces its roots back to Middle Dutch, specifically the word schaprade, which meant 'cabinet'.
- The phrase ser el escaparate is used to describe a person who acts as the public face or 'showcase' of a company.
- In some Latin American countries, using the word escaparate instead of vitrina can immediately identify a speaker as being from Spain.
Examples in context
- El museo tiene una sala de exhibición dedicada a artistas contemporáneos.The museum has an exhibition room dedicated to contemporary artists.
- Puedes encontrar una vitrina con joyas antiguas en la tienda de antigüedades.You can find a showcase with antique jewelry at the antique store.
- Los científicos realizaron una demostración de su nuevo invento en la conferencia.The scientists showcased their new invention at the conference.
- Ayer asistí a una muestra de arte contemporáneo en la galería del barrio.Yesterday, I attended an art showcase at the neighborhood gallery.
- La exposición fotográfica muestra los paisajes más impactantes de la región.The photo exhibition showcases the most breathtaking landscapes of the region.
- La marca de ropa hizo una presentación de su nueva colección en un desfile en la ciudad.The clothing brand showcased their new collection in a fashion show in the city.
Example conversation
Lucía and Mateo are walking past a store in a shopping mall.
- LucíaMateo, mira el escaparate de esa tienda.Mateo, look at the showcase of that store.
- MateoEs verdad, tienen unos zapatos increíbles.It's true, they have some incredible shoes.
- LucíaEl escaparate está muy bien decorado.The showcase is very well decorated.
- MateoEntremos a ver los precios, Lucía.Let's go in and see the prices, Lucía.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry escaparate, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries escaparate, CC BY-SA 4.0.
