corporal
/kohr-poh-RAHL/
bodily
Corporal refers to things relating to the human body, such as physical movement.
corporal(adjective)
bodily
?relating to the human body
,physical
?concerning the body rather than the mind
body
?used as a describing word for products or expressions
📝 In Action
La expresión corporal es muy importante en el teatro.
B1Body language is very important in theater.
Ella usa una crema corporal para mantener su piel suave.
A2She uses a body cream to keep her skin soft.
El ejercicio mejora el bienestar corporal.
B1Exercise improves physical well-being.
💡 Grammar Points
One form for all
This word doesn't change for masculine or feminine. You can say 'el ejercicio corporal' or 'la crema corporal'—it stays exactly the same!
❌ Common Pitfalls
The 'Corporal' Trap
Mistake: "Using 'corporal' to refer to a military rank."
Correction: In Spanish, a military corporal is called a 'cabo'. 'Corporal' only refers to the human body.
⭐ Usage Tips
Natural Sound
In English we often just use the word 'body' as a descriptor (body cream). In Spanish, we use 'corporal' to turn 'body' into a describing word.
In a religious context, a corporal is a specific linen cloth used on an altar.
📝 In Action
El sacerdote colocó el cáliz sobre el corporal.
C2The priest placed the chalice on the corporal cloth.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: corporal
Question 1 of 2
If you are talking about someone's body language, which phrase should you use?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'corporal' change if the noun is feminine?
No. Words ending in -al in Spanish are usually 'gender-neutral,' meaning they work for both masculine and feminine things without changing.
Is 'corporal' a formal word?
It is slightly more formal than just saying 'del cuerpo' (of the body), but it is very common in everyday language for products like 'crema corporal' (body cream).