medalla
/meh-DAH-yah/
medal
A physical 'medalla' is often given as an award for achievement.
📝 In Action
Ella ganó la medalla de oro en la competencia de natación.
A2She won the gold medal in the swimming competition.
El militar recibió una medalla por su valentía en la batalla.
B1The soldier received a medal for his bravery in battle.
💡 Grammar Points
Feminine Noun Rule
'Medalla' is always feminine, even though it ends in '-a'. Make sure to use 'la medalla' or 'una medalla'.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Incorrect Gender
Mistake: "El medalla es importante."
Correction: La medalla es importante. (Remember to use 'la'.)
⭐ Usage Tips
Specifying the Metal
In sports, you use the preposition 'de' (of) to specify the type of medal: 'de oro' (gold), 'de plata' (silver), or 'de bronce' (bronze).
Figuratively, 'medalla' can refer to the honor or recognition (credit) received for an accomplishment.
📝 In Action
Él siempre se cuelga la medalla por el trabajo de su equipo.
B2He always takes the credit for his team's work.
No te cuelgues la medalla; yo fui quien tuvo la idea.
C1Don't take the credit; I was the one who had the idea.
💡 Grammar Points
Reflexive Action
This idiom uses the reflexive verb 'colgarse' (to hang [something] on oneself), emphasizing that the person is actively taking the credit for themselves.
⭐ Usage Tips
Use with Caution
This phrase is usually used in a slightly critical or negative way when someone is unfairly claiming success.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: medalla
Question 1 of 2
Which phrase correctly uses 'medalla' to describe the highest prize in the Olympics?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'medalla' and 'medallón'?
'Medalla' is the standard word for an award (like a sports prize). 'Medallón' usually refers to a larger, decorative piece of jewelry or a very large, commemorative medal.