How to Say Shorts in Spanish - Most Used Words Guide
Updated for 2026, knowing how to say "shorts" in Spanish is crucial whether you're traveling or expanding your vocabulary. In Spanish, the term "pantalones cortos" (IPA: /pan.ta.ˈlo.nes ˈkoɾ.tos/) is commonly used to refer to shorts.
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How to Say Shorts in Spanish
The term "shorts" can be translated into several variations in Spanish. Here are the primary translations:
- Pantalones cortos (IPA: /pan.ta.ˈlo.nes ˈkoɾ.tos/): This is the standard translation for shorts, meaning "short pants." It's widely used and can refer to any type of shorts.
- Bermudas (IPA: /beɾ.mu.ˈdas/): Common in many Spanish-speaking countries, this term refers specifically to knee-length shorts often associated with Bermuda due to their popularity there.
- Pantalonetas (IPA: /pan.ta.lo.ˈne.tas/): Popular in Latin America, pantalonetas are typically used for athletic wear or swim trunks.
- Shorts (IPA: /ʃort/): This term is also recognized in some Spanish-speaking countries, especially Central America and the Caribbean. It's pronounced similarly to English.
Cultural Significance of Wearing Shorts Across Different Countries
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The Spanish Frequency Dictionary series covers the 10,000 most common Spanish words — ranked by how often native speakers actually use them, with IPA pronunciation, English translations, and bilingual example sentences at every level.
Browse all 4 volumes →The cultural significance of wearing shorts varies across different regions. In Spain, bermudas are often seen as casual summer wear, while pantalones cortos might be more versatile and acceptable for various occasions. In Latin America, the term "pantalonetas" is commonly used for athletic or swimwear.
Regional Variations and Colloquial Terms
In addition to standard translations, there are regional variations and colloquial terms you may encounter:
- Pantalones cortos de deporte (IPA: /pan.ta.lo.nes koɾ.toz ðe do.pɾe.te/): Used in Latin America for athletic shorts.
- Bermudas acuáticas (IPA: /beɾ.mu.ˈdas a.kwi.ˈta.tik.as/): Commonly used in coastal regions, this term refers to swim trunks or swimming shorts.
- Pantalones cortos de baño (IPA: /pan.ta.lo.nes koɾ.toz ðe ˈbaɲ.o/): Another widely understood term for swim trunks across Spanish-speaking countries.
Sample Sentences to Use "Shorts" in Spanish
To help you use these terms naturally, here are some sample sentences:
- Hoy me puse pantalones cortos para ir a la playa. (Today I wore shorts to go to the beach.)
- Vamos a comprar bermudas nuevas este fin de semana. (We're going to buy new knee-length shorts this weekend.)
- Mis pantalonetas están sucias, necesito lavarlas. (My athletic shorts are dirty; I need to wash them.)
- ¿Tienes shorts para usar en el gimnasio? (Do you have shorts to use at the gym?)
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