How to Say Tomato in Spanish | MostUsedWords.com
Updated for 2026, "tomato" in Spanish is tomate (IPA: /to.ˈma.te/). This article delves into translations, meanings, etymology, and cultural usage of this versatile fruit across various Spanish-speaking regions.
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What is "Tomato" in Spanish?
The word for "tomato" in Spanish is tomate (IPA: /to.ˈma.te/). This term is widely used across the Spanish-speaking world, but it's important to note that certain regions may have their own variations. The plural form of "tomato" in Spanish is tomates (IPA: /to.ˈma.tes/), with the final "s" pronounced as /s/, representing the plural marker.
Pronunciation Guide for Non-Native Speakers
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- Tomate: /to.ˈma.te/ (pronounced with stress on the second syllable)
- Tomates: /to.ˈma.tes/ (the plural form adds an /s/ sound at the end)
Cultural Significance in Different Spanish-Speaking Countries
The tomato holds significant cultural importance across various Spanish-speaking countries:
- Mexico: In Mexico, "jitomate" (/xi.to.ˈma.te/) is commonly used, a term derived from the Nahuatl language.
- Argentina: The pronunciation shifts to reflect local accents and patterns, often heard as "tomahteh."
- Spain: In Spain, while "tomate" is standard, regional variations like "tomata" (/to.ˈma.ta/) exist in certain areas.
Historical Usage of Tomato in Spanish Cuisine
The tomato has a rich history in Spanish cuisine, playing a crucial role in many traditional dishes and sauces. Its introduction to Europe from the Americas revolutionized culinary practices across the continent.
Synonyms and Variations Across Regions
While "tomate" is widely recognized, other variations exist:
- Mexico: Jitomate (/xi.to.ˈma.te/)
- Colombia: Tomatillo (not to be confused with the fruit of the same name in English)
- Peru: Pepino rojo
Sentences Using 'Tomate'
Here are some sample sentences using "tomate" in different contexts:
- "¿Me das un tomate para la ensalada?" (Can you give me a tomato for the salad?)
- "El chef preparó una salsa de tomate exquisita." (The chef prepared an exquisite tomato sauce.)
- "En el mercado, venden tomates frescos y maduros." (At the market, they sell fresh and ripe tomatoes.)
Formal vs. Informal Usage of 'Tomate'
The word "tomate" is generally used in both formal and informal settings without significant variation:
- Informal: "¿Quieres un tomate en tu sándwich?" (Do you want a tomato on your sandwich?)
- Formal: "El plato principal incluye una salsa de tomate." (The main dish includes a tomato sauce.)
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