nariz tapada
/naɾiθ tapada/from spelling rules
The English phrase 'stuffy nose' is translated into Spanish as nariz tapada.
A 'stuffy nose' is a condition where the nasal passages are blocked, making it difficult to breathe through the nose. To express this naturally in a sentence, you typically use the verb tener (to have) along with a definite article, such as in Tengo la nariz tapada (I have a stuffy nose).
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase nariz tapada literally means 'plugged nose'. Nariz is the word for 'nose' and tapada is the feminine singular past participle of the verb tapar, which means 'to plug' or 'to cover'.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some parts of Latin America, the term taponamiento nasal is used to signify a stuffy nose.
How does it change in a sentence?
Because nariz is a feminine noun, the accompanying adjective must be the feminine form tapada rather than the masculine tapado.
How do you pronounce it?
/naɾiθ tapada/
Did you know?
- If you describe a person as tapado instead of your nose as tapada, you are not saying they have a cold, but that they are acting in secret or are 'covered'.
- The verb tapar used in nariz tapada is the exact same verb used when you 'cover' a pot with a lid or 'cover' a secret.
- The word nariz is a linguistic relative of the English word 'nasal', as both trace their history back to the Latin word nāris.
Examples in context
- En el invierno, muchas personas experimentan congestión nasal debido a los resfriados comunes.During winter, many people experience nasal congestion due to common colds.
- ¡No puedo respirar! Tengo la nariz tapada por completo.I can't breathe! My nose is completely blocked.
- Tengo la nariz tapada por la alergia.I have a stuffy nose because of my allergies.
- No puedo respirar bien con la nariz tapada.I cannot breathe well with a stuffy nose.
- Él tiene la nariz tapada desde ayer.He has had a stuffy nose since yesterday.
Example conversation
María and Javier are talking in the living room.
- MaríaTengo la nariz tapada y me duele la cabeza.I have a stuffy nose and my head hurts.
- JavierLo siento, María. ¿Quieres un té caliente?I'm sorry, María. Do you want a hot tea?
- MaríaSí, eso me ayudaría con mi nariz tapada.Yes, that would help me with my stuffy nose.
- JavierTe lo preparo ahora mismo, Javier.I'll make it for you right now, Javier.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries nariz, CC BY-SA 4.0.
