bandas
/BAHN-dahs/
bands
When referring to musical groups, the word is bandas.
📝 In Action
Las bandas de rock vendieron todos los boletos.
A1The rock bands sold all the tickets.
Hay muchas bandas tocando en el festival este fin de semana.
A2There are many bands playing at the festival this weekend.
💡 Grammar Points
Plural of 'Banda'
This word is simply the plural form of the feminine noun 'banda' (band, group). Since 'banda' ends in a vowel, you just add an 's' to make it plural.
⭐ Usage Tips
Context is Key
Although 'banda' means a musical group, it can also refer to criminal gangs or factions (see other meanings), so context is important when listening.
Long, narrow pieces of material are called bandas (strips).
bandas(noun)
strips
?long, narrow pieces of material
,belts
?conveyor belts, drive belts
sashes
?decorative ribbons worn across the body
📝 In Action
Necesitamos bandas nuevas para la máquina de gimnasio.
B1We need new belts for the gym machine (treadmill, etc.).
Las bandas de tela decoraban el salón.
B2The strips of cloth decorated the hall.
💡 Grammar Points
Physical Objects
Think of this meaning as describing anything that is long, narrow, and flat, whether it's fabric, rubber, or magnetic material (like a magnetic strip on a card).
Bandas can mean opposing sides or teams.
bandas(noun)
sides
?opposing parties or teams
,factions
?groups within a larger organization
gangs
?criminal groups
📝 In Action
Las bandas rivales se enfrentaron en la calle.
B2The rival gangs faced off in the street.
Ambas bandas en el parlamento buscan un acuerdo.
C1Both sides in parliament are looking for an agreement.
💡 Grammar Points
Referring to People
When 'bandas' refers to groups of people (like gangs or political factions), it maintains its feminine plural form, even if the groups consist only of men.
The verb form bandas means 'you band together' or unite.
bandas(verb)
(you) band together
?second person singular present tense of 'bandar'
(you) conspire
?regional slang meaning
📝 In Action
Si tú bandas con esa gente, tendrás problemas.
C2If you band together with those people, you will have problems. (Highly regional/archaic usage)
💡 Grammar Points
The Rare Verb 'Bandar'
This verb form ('tú bandas') means 'you band together' or 'you form a group.' However, in modern Spanish, the noun 'bandas' is vastly more common. You will almost certainly never need to use the verb 'bandar'.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: bandas
Question 1 of 2
Which English translation is NOT appropriate for 'bandas'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'bandas' masculine or feminine?
As a noun, 'bandas' is always feminine plural, meaning you use feminine articles and adjectives with it (e.g., 'Las bandas famosas').
How do I know if 'bandas' means a musical group or a gang?
Context is everything! If you hear references to concerts, instruments, or albums, it means a musical group. If you hear references to police, territory, or crime, it means a gang or faction.