Spanish - April 25, 2023

How To Say "Face" In Spanish

If you are learning Spanish, it is essential to know how to say basic words like "face". Whether you are traveling to a Spanish-speaking country or just want to expand your vocabulary, understanding how to say "face" in Spanish is a crucial first step. In this article, we will explore the meaning of "face" in Spanish, regional differences in vocabulary, and provide a translation of "face" in Spanish.

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What is "Face" in Spanish?

The word for "face" in Spanish is "cara" (IPA: /ˈka.ɾa/), with the emphasis on the first syllable. This word is used across all Spanish-speaking countries, so it is a good word to know no matter where you go.

Meaning of "Face" in Spanish

In Spanish, "cara" means the front part of the head, where the eyes, nose, and mouth are located. It can also refer to a person's facial expression or appearance. Additionally, "cara" can be used to describe the surface or exterior of an object, such as the face of a building.

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Translating “Face” to Spanish

Here are some translations of the word "face" in Spanish:

Cara (IPA: /ˈkaɾa/): This is the most common translation for the term "face" in Spanish. It refers to the front part of the head that includes the eyes, nose, mouth, and chin. This term is used in most Spanish-speaking countries and regions.
Rostro (IPA: /ˈrostɾo/): This term also refers to the front part of the head, but it is more formal than "cara". It is often used to refer to a person's face in a more artistic or poetic context.
Faz (IPA: /fas/): This term is more archaic and not commonly used in everyday conversations. However, it is still used in some regions, such as Mexico, to refer to the face.
Caraza (IPA: /kaˈɾasa/): This is a regional variation of the term "cara" and is mostly used in some parts of Central America.
Belfo (IPA: /ˈbelfo/): This term refers to the mouth or lips of a person's face, and it is not commonly used to refer to the whole face.

Regional Differences

While "cara" is the most commonly used word for "face" across all Spanish-speaking countries, there are some regional differences in vocabulary. Here are a few variations you might come across:

In some parts of Central America and Mexico, the word "rostro" is used instead of "cara". Rostro has a slightly more formal connotation and is often used in literature or art to describe a person's facial features.
In some parts of South America, particularly Argentina, "faz" is sometimes used instead of "cara". Faz has a poetic connotation and is used more in literature than in everyday speech.
In Spain, you might hear the word "careto" used in casual conversation. This word has a slightly negative connotation and is often used to describe someone with an unpleasant or unattractive face.

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