lata de refresco
/lata de ɾefɾesko/from spelling rules
In Spanish, 'soda can' is lata de refresco.
The phrase refers to a cylindrical metal container used to hold a carbonated soft drink.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of lata (can), de (of) and refresco (soda/soft drink).
Which one should you use?
While lata de refresco is a standard way to express this, lata de soda is a common alternative used in many Latin American countries. In several South American countries, such as Colombia or Peru, people often use lata de gaseosa instead.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In several South American countries like Colombia or Peru, lata de gaseosa is used because gaseosa is the standard word for a soft drink in those areas.
How does it change in a sentence?
To make the phrase plural, you change lata to latas, resulting in latas de refresco.
How do you pronounce it?
/lata de ɾefɾesko/
Did you know?
- While lata means 'can', using the word alone in the phrase que lata expresses annoyance or boredom, similar to saying 'what a drag' in English.
- The word lata shares a distant linguistic ancestor with the English word 'lath', which refers to a thin strip of wood.
- In many Spanish-speaking regions, refresco can refer to any cold drink, including water or fruit juice, not just carbonated sodas.
Examples in context
- ¿Dónde puedo reciclar una lata de refresco?Where can I recycle a soda can?
- Pásame esa lata de soda, por favor.Pass me that soda can, please.
- Esa lata de refresco está muy fría.That soda can is very cold.
- ¿Puedes reciclar esta lata de refresco?Can you recycle this soda can?
- Compré una lata de refresco en la tienda.I bought a soda can at the store.
Example conversation
María and Alejandro are sitting in a park.
- María¿Tienes una lata de refresco para mí?Do you have a soda can for me?
- AlejandroSí, María, aquí tienes una.Yes, María, here you go.
- MaríaMuchas gracias, Alejandro.Thank you very much, Alejandro.
- AlejandroDe nada, disfruta tu bebida.You're welcome, enjoy your drink.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries de, lata, refresco, CC BY-SA 4.0.
