B2 - Upper Intermediate Spanish
Students at the Upper Intermediate B2 level can defend their positions in a debate, and explore opposing views on different topics.
At this level, most students can converse with native speakers naturally and fluently.
cortarse la digestión
cut the digestion
'Cortarse la digestión' is a Spanish phrase that literally translates to 'cut the digestion' in English. However, the actual meaning of this phrase is closer to 'to have indigestion' or 'to get a cramp'. It is often used to describe the uncomfortable feeling in your stomach, typically after eating too quickly, consuming heavy meals, or swimming shortly after having a meal. This phrase is a good example of how idiomatic expressions in Spanish do not always have a direct translation to English.
cortarse las uñas
cut the nails
The phrase 'cortarse las uñas' in Spanish translates to 'cut the nails' in English. This is usually used in the context of personal grooming, where one trims the nails on their fingers or toes. Spanish-speakers would use 'cortarse las uñas' to say that they're going to cut their nails or that someone needs to cut their nails. Like in English, this can be used literally or figuratively to suggest tidying up or getting rid of something unnecessary.
Example sentences with cortarse las uñas →cortaúñas
shorts
The word 'cortaúñas' is incorrect's translation. In English, it translates to 'nail clippers' and not 'shorts'. 'Cortaúñas' are a handheld tool used to trim fingernails and toenails. They are usually made of metal and have sharp edges to cut the nails cleanly. This tool is a common item found in grooming kits and is a basic hygiene necessity.
Example sentences with cortaúñas →corto (metraje)
short (measure)
The term 'corto (metraje)' in Spanish translates to 'short (measure)' in English. It is commonly used in the domain of film and cinema. In this specific context, it refers to a short film or a movie that is significantly shorter than the average length of a feature film. This term can also be used in other contexts to denote something of short length or duration.
Example sentences with corto (metraje) →cosido
sewing
The Spanish word 'cosido' translates to 'sewing' in English. It is derived from the verb 'coser' which means 'to sew'. 'Cosido' is often used in a context where something has been sewn together or is in the process of being sewn. It can refer to both the act of sewing or an item being sewn, depending on the context.
cosmética (natural)
cosmetic (natural)
The Spanish word 'cosmética (natural)' translates to 'cosmetic (natural)' in English. It refers to beauty products which are made of natural ingredients, rather than synthetic or chemical compounds. These natural cosmetics may include creams, lotions, and makeup products that individuals apply on their skin, hair, or body to enhance or change their appearance. The emphasis on 'natural' indicates an appeal to eco-conscious consumers who prefer products that are not only safer for their health but also for the environment.
Example sentences with cosmética (natural) →costero
coastal
The Spanish word 'costero' translates to 'coastal' in English. It is an adjective used to describe something that is related to, located at, or living near the coast. For instance, it can be used in the context of 'a coastal town' ('un pueblo costero') or 'coastal area' ('area costera'). This word is derived from the noun 'costa' meaning 'coast' in Spanish.
Example sentences with costero →costilla
rib
The word 'costilla' is a Spanish term that translates to 'rib' in English. It is most commonly used in contexts related to anatomy and food. In terms of anatomy, 'costilla' refers to any of the curved bones which form the chest wall in humans and many animals, protecting the heart and lungs. In a culinary context, 'costillas' often refers to a popular dish, often being a cut of meat from this area of an animal, most typically a cow or pig, and often barbecued or roasted as a delicious meal.
cotización a la Seguridad Social
Social Security contributions
The term 'cotización a la Seguridad Social' in Spanish translates to 'Social Security contributions' in English. It refers to the payments made to the social security system that is a part of the taxes paid by employees, employers or the self-employed in most countries. These payments fund the welfare state and provide benefits to people who are sick, unemployed, or retired. The contribution rate is often a percentage of the individual's earnings. The term is of critical importance to understand for those working or planning to work within the Spanish economy or when conducting any form of employment contract negotiation or analysis.
creación
creation
The Spanish word 'creación' translates to 'creation' in English. It is a noun often used in the context of producing or bringing something into existence. A single act, process, or result of creating can be referred to as 'creación'. It may also specifically refer to the act of creating the universe or the universe itself as created by God in theological contexts. As with most Spanish words, it should be pronounced with emphasis on the accented syllable, in this case -ción.
Example sentences with creación →creatividad
creativity
The Spanish term 'creatividad' translates to 'creativity' in English. Creativity is the ability to create or invent something original or imaginative. It is instrumental in many fields such as art, literature, science, and business. Creatividad, as in English, embodies the concepts of originality, inventiveness, and expression.
Example sentences with creatividad →crecer
grow
The word 'crecer' translates to 'grow' in English. In Spanish, this verb can be used in a variety of contexts, similar to English. For instance, it can reference physical growth, such as in a person or plant (El niño va a crecer mucho este año - The boy is going to grow a lot this year), or symbolic growth, like a company or experience (Nuestra empresa comenzó a crecer rápidamente - Our company began to grow fast). This makes 'crecer' versatile and commonly used in Spanish language.
Example sentences with crecer →crecer el número de desempleados
grow the number of unemployed
The Spanish phrase 'crecer el número de desempleados' translates to 'grow the number of unemployed' in English. This phrase implies an increase in the number of individuals who are jobless in a particular context or situation, such as a country or industry. It's an expression often used to denote economic instability or a challenging job market.
crecer la familia
grow the family
'Crecer la familia' in Spanish refers to the notion of expanding one's family, which can be through various means such as the birth of new members, marriage, adoption, etc. It carries implications of nurturing, development, and progression. 'Grow the family' is a direct translation, and in English context, it might also suggest the idea of increasing the bonds, love, and connections within the family.
crecimiento de la mortalidad
growth in mortality
The Spanish term 'crecimiento de la mortalidad' translates to 'growth in mortality' in English. This phrase can be used in various contexts, especially in scientific, socio-economic, and health-related discussions. It signifies an increase in the number of deaths in a particular population during a specific period. In public health, this term commonly appears when addressing issues such as epidemics, public health crises, or demographic trends.
Example sentences with crecimiento de la mortalidad →crecimiento de la natalidad
growth of the birth rate
The Spanish phrase 'crecimiento de la natalidad' translates to 'growth of the birth rate' in English. This term is used in discussions or analyses of population statistics and demographic trends. When the 'crecimiento de la natalidad' is high, it implies that the number of births in a specific population is increasing. This could be due to a variety of factors such as improved health care, economic stability, cultural factors, etc. Conversely, a low or negative 'crecimiento de la natalidad' would mean that the birth rate is decreasing.
Example sentences with crecimiento de la natalidad →crecimiento de la población
population growth
The term 'crecimiento de la población' in Spanish translates to 'population growth' in English. This phrase refers to the increase in the number of individuals in a population. It can be due to several factors such as a rise in birth rates, a decline in mortality rates, immigration, or an escalation in the population's resources. It's a term common in discussions about economics, sociology, environmental science, and public planning.
Example sentences with crecimiento de la población →crecimiento industrial
industrial growth
The term 'crecimiento industrial' in Spanish translates to 'industrial growth' in English. This term is often used in economic and business contexts and refers to an increase in the size or number of industries in a specific region or country. Such growth is typically measured in economic terms and can be influenced by multiple factors, including advancements in technology, increases in skilled labor, and favorable governmental policies. Industrial growth can lead to a variety of socio-economic changes, including job creation and increases in standard of living.
Example sentences with crecimiento industrial →crema hidratante
moisturizing cream
The Spanish 'crema hidratante' translates to 'moisturizing cream' in English. This term is used in beauty and skincare contexts, referring to a type of cream or lotion applied to the skin to prevent dryness. Moisturizing creams often contain ingredients that supplement the skin's natural oils to help keep it hydrated and maintain its natural moisture balance. They sometimes come in different varieties such as those for sensitive skin, oil-free, or those with specific ingredients for certain skincare concerns.
Example sentences with crema hidratante →crema limpiadora
cleaning cream
Crema limpiadora is a Spanish term that translates to 'cleaning cream' in English. It is commonly used to refer to products used for cleaning purposes, particularly in the context of skincare. These creams are typically applied to the skin, left for a few moments to activate, and then wiped off or rinsed away. They can be used on a daily basis to remove dirt, oil, and other unwanted particles from the skin's surface or might be used more selectively to target specific concerns such as clogged pores or blackheads. In addition to cleansing, many cleaning creams also provide benefits such as moisturizing or toning the skin.
Example sentences with crema limpiadora →crema pastelera
cake cream
Crema pastelera' is a Spanish term that translates directly to 'pastry cream' in English. This is a rich, thick custard made from a mixture of milk, eggs, sugar, and usually a flavoring such as vanilla. It's commonly used as a filling for cakes, tarts, and pastries in many Spanish and Latin American cuisines. The term 'crema pastelera' may occasionally be translated as 'cake cream', although 'pastry cream' is more accurate.
cremallera
zipper
The Spanish word 'cremallera' translates to 'zipper' in English. It's primarily used to refer to a device consisting of two flexible strips of fabric with interlocking metal or plastic teeth and a sliding mechanism that is used in clothing, bags and other items to fasten two things together. It's an everyday item that's used worldwide. The term 'cremallera' can also metaphorically refer to anything that binds or connects one thing tightly to another.
crisis financiera
financial crisis
The Spanish term 'crisis financiera' translates to 'financial crisis' in English. It refers to a situation where the value of financial institutions or assets drops significantly. This is often associated with a panic or a run on the banks, in which investors sell off assets or withdraw money from savings accounts because they believe that the value of those assets will drop if they stay at a financial institution.
Example sentences with crisis financiera →cristalería
glassware
The word 'cristalería' in Spanish translates to 'glassware' in English. This term generally refers to objects made of glass, more specifically, objects used to serve food or beverages. This includes items such as glasses, plates, bowls, jars, bottles, etc. In a broader sense, it can also refer to places where glass is made or sold.
cristianismo
Christianity
The Spanish word 'cristianismo' translates to 'Christianity' in English. Christianity is a monotheistic religion based on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. It is one of the largest religions in the world, and it includes numerous sects or denominations like Catholicism, Protestantism, and Orthodoxy, among others. The central tenets of this religion is the belief in Jesus as the son of God and the messiah, who has sacrificed himself for humanity's sins and resurrected from death. Christians typically refer to their religious scriptures as The Bible, which includes the Old and New Testament.
Example sentences with cristianismo →crítico de arte
art critic
The Spanish phrase 'crítico de arte' translates to 'art critic' in English. An art critic is an individual who is specialized in analyzing, interpreting and evaluating art. Their reviews and critiques of art can be published in a variety of media outlets such as newspapers, magazines, and journals. In essence, they play a significant role in the art world, providing commentary and perspective on art, and influencing public opinion of artworks and exhibitions.
Example sentences with crítico de arte →crítico de cine
film critic
The Spanish term 'crítico de cine' translates to 'film critic' in English. This term refers to a person whose job is to write or broadcast their expert opinion and analysis about movies. They typically review films in publications, broadcast media, or online platforms, considering aspects such as plot, theme, cinematography, editing, performances, and overall execution. Their insights often inform audiences and can impact a movie's popularity and reception.
Example sentences with crítico de cine →cruce peligroso
dangerous crossing
The Spanish term 'cruce peligroso' translates to 'dangerous crossing' in English. This phrase can represent a physical intersection or junction on roads or paths where there's a higher risk of accidents due to factors such as inadequate signage, high traffic volume or poor design. Also, it can be used figuratively to denote a risky or critical stage or event.
Example sentences with cruce peligroso →cruzar el océano
cross the ocean
The Spanish phrase 'cruzar el océano' is translated in English as 'cross the ocean'. This phrase could be used both in a literal sense, such as physically travelling or sailing across an ocean body, or metaphorically to express overcoming a big challenge or making a substantial change in life.
Example sentences with cruzar el océano →cruzar el país
cross the country
The Spanish phrase 'cruzar el país' translates to 'cross the country' in English. This can be used in various contexts, such as discussing travel plans (e.g., 'I plan to cruzar el país this summer'). It can also be applied metaphorically to convey the idea of experiencing or understanding different aspects or regions of a country.
Example sentences with cruzar el país →