cartera
/kar-TEH-ra/
wallet
When 'cartera' means 'wallet', it refers to a small folding case for carrying paper money and cards.
cartera(noun)
wallet
?a small folding case for paper money and cards
,purse
?a small container for money, especially coins
billfold
?North American usage for money holder
📝 In Action
Perdí mi cartera con todas mis tarjetas de crédito.
A1I lost my wallet with all my credit cards.
Siempre llevo mi móvil y las llaves en la cartera.
A2I always carry my phone and keys in my purse.
💡 Grammar Points
Gender Check
'Cartera' is a feminine noun, so you must always use feminine words before it, like 'la cartera' or 'una cartera'.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Confusing Wallet vs. Handbag
Mistake: "Using 'cartera' when you mean a large handbag."
Correction: Use 'bolso' for a large handbag. 'Cartera' usually implies a smaller holder for money or documents.
⭐ Usage Tips
Regional Difference
In Mexico and parts of Central America, 'cartera' often refers to a woman's entire handbag, not just the money holder inside it.
When 'cartera' means 'briefcase', it refers to a flat, rectangular case used for carrying documents.
cartera(noun)
briefcase
?a flat, rectangular case for carrying documents
,satchel
?a bag with a long strap, often for school or work
portfolio
?a collection of documents, clients, or investments
📝 In Action
El arquitecto puso los planos en su cartera antes de la reunión.
B1The architect put the blueprints in his briefcase before the meeting.
El banco quiere expandir su cartera de clientes en Latinoamérica.
B2The bank wants to expand its client portfolio in Latin America.
💡 Grammar Points
Business Context
When used in business or finance, 'cartera' means 'portfolio'—a collection of assets or clients managed by a company.
⭐ Usage Tips
From Paper to Assets
Think of the root word 'carta' (paper/document). A briefcase holds physical papers, and a portfolio holds financial 'papers' or records.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: cartera
Question 1 of 2
If you are a financial advisor, which meaning of 'cartera' is most relevant to your work?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'cartera' and 'billetera'?
Both mean 'wallet.' 'Cartera' is widely understood everywhere and can also mean 'briefcase' or 'purse.' 'Billetera' specifically refers to a wallet for bills (billetes) and is very common in Latin America, often used for men's wallets.
Can I use 'cartera' to talk about a woman's handbag?
Yes, but be aware of the region. In many parts of Latin America (like Mexico), 'cartera' is the standard word for a woman's handbag. In Spain, 'bolso' is much more common for a large handbag.