cadenas
/kah-DEH-nahs/
chains
Cadenas, meaning 'chains' (metal links).
cadenas(noun)
chains
?metal links
,shackles
?restraining devices
links
?a series of connected items
📝 In Action
Necesitamos cadenas para asegurar la bicicleta.
A2We need chains to secure the bicycle.
Puso las cadenas en los neumáticos por la nieve.
B1He put the chains on the tires because of the snow.
💡 Grammar Points
Always Plural in This Form
Remember that 'cadenas' is the plural form of the feminine noun 'cadena'. Use feminine plural adjectives with it (e.g., 'cadenas pesadas').
❌ Common Pitfalls
Gender Confusion
Mistake: "Los cadenas"
Correction: Las cadenas. 'Cadena' is always feminine, even in plural.
⭐ Usage Tips
Tire Chains
In many Spanish-speaking regions, 'cadenas' specifically refers to tire chains used on cars during winter.
Cadenas can also mean a broadcasting 'network'.
cadenas(noun)
network
?TV or radio broadcasting
,chain
?group of stores, hotels, or restaurants
channel
?TV broadcast channel
📝 In Action
Esta es una de las cadenas de supermercados más grandes del país.
B1This is one of the largest supermarket chains in the country.
Las cadenas de televisión están cubriendo la noticia en vivo.
B1The television networks are covering the news live.
💡 Grammar Points
Shortened Usage
Often, the context is implied: 'cadenas' used alone usually means 'cadenas de tiendas' (store chains) or 'cadenas de televisión' (TV networks).
⭐ Usage Tips
Formal vs. Informal
When referring to media, 'cadenas' is usually formal. Informally, you might just say 'el canal' (the channel).
Figuratively, cadenas refers to 'bonds' or restrictions.
cadenas(noun)
bonds
?figurative restrictions or oppression
,fetters
?symbolic restraints
slavery
?state of bondage
📝 In Action
El pueblo rompió las cadenas de la tiranía.
B2The people broke the chains of tyranny.
Las cadenas del pasado nos impiden avanzar.
C1The bonds of the past prevent us from moving forward.
💡 Grammar Points
Metaphorical Usage
In this context, 'cadenas' is a powerful metaphor for anything that restricts freedom, whether political, social, or emotional.
⭐ Usage Tips
Formal Context
This meaning is typically reserved for formal speeches, literature, or serious discussions about human rights or history.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: cadenas
Question 1 of 2
Which meaning of 'cadenas' is used in the sentence: 'Las cadenas hoteleras ofrecen muchos paquetes turísticos.'
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'cadenas' used for a necklace?
While a necklace is a type of chain, the singular 'cadena' is used for 'necklace' ('una cadena'). The plural 'cadenas' is usually reserved for heavy-duty chains, tire chains, or the figurative meanings (networks, stores, or bonds).
How do I know if 'cadenas' means a TV network or a store?
Context is key. If the sentence mentions 'noticias,' 'programas,' or 'antena,' it means a TV/Radio network. If it mentions 'tiendas,' 'hoteles,' or 'franquicias,' it refers to a business chain.