frenos
/FREH-nohs/
brakes
The word 'frenos' refers to the mechanical brakes used to stop a vehicle.
frenos(noun)
brakes
?mechanical stopping devices
restraints
?things that stop or slow down progress
📝 In Action
Tienes que revisar los frenos de la bicicleta.
A2You have to check the bicycle's brakes.
El conductor pisó los frenos de repente.
B1The driver hit the brakes suddenly.
💡 Grammar Points
Always Masculine
Even though it ends in 's', this word is masculine. Use 'los' or 'unos' with it.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Brake vs Break
Mistake: "Using 'frenos' to mean 'a rest period' (like a coffee break)."
Correction: Use 'descanso' for a rest break. 'Frenos' only refers to stopping movement.
⭐ Usage Tips
Plural Power
Even if you are talking about the braking system as a single concept, Spanish speakers almost always use the plural 'los frenos'.
In many regions, 'frenos' is the word used for dental braces.
📝 In Action
Llevé frenos durante tres años para enderezar mis dientes.
B1I wore braces for three years to straighten my teeth.
A los niños no les gusta tener frenos.
A2Kids don't like having braces.
💡 Grammar Points
Verb Pairing
To say 'wear braces,' use the verb 'llevar' (to carry/wear) or 'tener' (to have).
⭐ Usage Tips
Social Context
In many Latin American countries, 'frenos' is the standard word for dental braces, whereas in Spain, you'll hear 'aparatos' more often.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: frenos
Question 1 of 2
If you are at the dentist in Mexico, what are 'frenos'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use 'frenos' for the suspenders that hold up pants?
No, those are called 'tirantes' in Spanish. 'Frenos' only refers to things that stop motion or straighten teeth.
Is 'frenos' always plural?
Not strictly, but when referring to the system in a car or the braces on someone's teeth, it is almost always used in the plural form.