puntas abiertas
/puntas abjeɾtas/from spelling rules
The English phrase "split ends" is translated into Spanish as puntas abiertas.
This phrase refers to the damaged ends of hair strands that have split open lengthwise. In a hair salon context, speakers often shorten the phrase to just las puntas when discussing hair health or trimming.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of puntas (ends/tips) and abiertas (open).
Which one should you use?
While puntas abiertas is the standard term, puntas partidas (broken ends) is also a common way to describe the same condition. In informal settings, you might hear puntas florecidas (flowering ends).
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Latin American countries, especially in Mexico, the informal term puntas horquilladas (forked ends) is used.
How does it change in a sentence?
Because puntas is a feminine plural noun, the adjective abiertas must also be in the feminine plural form.
How do you pronounce it?
/puntas abjeɾtas/
Did you know?
- The term puntas florecidas uses the word for 'flowering' to describe hair, suggesting the ends are spreading out like flower petals.
- If you use the term puntas partidas, you are using a verb that can describe everything from splitting firewood to a broken heart.
- Beyond salons, punta is used to describe the 'tip' of a geographic cape or peninsula.
Examples in context
- Tengo las puntas abiertas.I have split ends.This sentence is useful for stating that you have puntas abiertas.Tatoeba #7256732 by arh, translation #5852136 by CK
- Me gustaría obtener un tratamiento para las puntas abiertas de mi cabello.I would like to get a treatment for my split ends.
- Hace mucho tiempo que no corto mi pelo y necesito que me arreglen las puntas partidas.It's been a long time since I last cut my hair, and I need to have my split ends trimmed.
- ¡Necesito una visita urgente al salón de belleza para arreglarme las puntas florecidas!I urgently need a salon appointment to fix my split ends!
- El calor del secador me deja las puntas abiertas.The heat from the hair dryer leaves me with split ends.
- Necesito un tratamiento para mis puntas abiertas.I need a treatment for my split ends.
Example conversation
María and Mateo are talking about her hair care routine.
- María¿Ves que tengo las puntas abiertas?Do you see that I have split ends?
- MateoSí, María, se nota bastante.Yes, María, it is quite noticeable.
- MaríaDebo cortármelas pronto.I should cut them soon.
- MateoEs una buena idea para que se vean sanas.It is a good idea so they look healthy.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
