Inklingo
A brightly colored leather handbag with a strap and a simple clasp resting on a flat surface.

bolso

BOHL-soh

nounmA1
handbag?small personal bag,purse?small bag for carrying essentials
Also:bag?general term, though 'bolsa' is more common for large or reusable bags

📝 In Action

Dejé mi teléfono en el bolso antes de salir.

A1

I left my phone in my handbag before leaving.

Este bolso es de cuero y es muy elegante.

A2

This purse is made of leather and is very elegant.

Siempre llevo un libro pequeño en mi bolso.

A1

I always carry a small book in my bag.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • cartera (purse/wallet (sometimes handbag))
  • saco (bag (regional))

Common Collocations

  • bolso de manohandbag
  • bolso de hombroshoulder bag
  • buscar algo en el bolsoto look for something in the bag

💡 Grammar Points

Masculine Gender Rule

Even though many things related to fashion and accessories are feminine, 'bolso' is a masculine noun, so you must use 'el bolso' or 'un bolso'.

❌ Common Pitfalls

Confusing 'Bolso' and 'Bolsa'

Mistake: "Using 'la bolso' or 'el bolsa'."

Correction: 'Bolso' is masculine (el bolso) and usually means a personal handbag. 'Bolsa' is feminine (la bolsa) and usually means a shopping bag, plastic bag, or sack.

⭐ Usage Tips

General Use

If you are referring to a stylish accessory carried by hand or over the shoulder, 'bolso' is your best choice across most Spanish-speaking regions.

✏️ Quick Practice

💡 Quick Quiz: bolso

Question 1 of 2

If you are buying groceries at the supermarket, which word would you typically use for the large reusable container you put the food in?

📚 More Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between 'bolso' and 'bolsa'?

'Bolso' is masculine and generally refers to a small, personal bag or purse, often used as a fashion accessory. 'Bolsa' is feminine and refers to a larger, more general container, like a shopping bag, a plastic sack, or a stock exchange.

Can 'bolso' mean 'pocket'?

No, the word for 'pocket' is 'bolsillo.' 'Bolso' is the external bag you carry.