patatas
pah-TAH-tas
/paˈtatas/
📝 In Action
Pedimos pollo asado con muchas patatas fritas.
A1We ordered roast chicken with lots of French fries.
Necesito un kilo de patatas para hacer la tortilla española.
A2I need a kilo of potatoes to make the Spanish omelet.
Las patatas bravas son un aperitivo muy popular en los bares de Madrid.
B1Spicy potatoes are a very popular appetizer in Madrid bars.
💡 Grammar Points
Feminine Noun
Since the singular form, 'patata,' ends in '-a,' it is a feminine noun. When you use it in plural, you must use feminine words with it: 'las patatas,' 'unas patatas.'
❌ Common Pitfalls
The 'Papa' vs. 'Patata' Mix-up
Mistake: “Using 'patatas' when speaking in most parts of Latin America.”
Correction: In most of Latin America, especially in Andean countries, you should use 'papas.' Reserve 'patatas' for conversations in Spain.
⭐ Usage Tips
Ordering Fries
When ordering 'French fries' in Spain, always ask for 'patatas fritas.' If you ask for 'papas fritas,' you will still be understood, but it sounds more common in other regions.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: patatas
Question 1 of 1
If you are ordering food in Lima, Peru, which word is the most natural to use for potatoes?
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some Spanish speakers say 'papas' and others say 'patatas'?
This is purely regional. 'Patatas' is the standard word in Spain. 'Papas' is the standard word across most of Latin America, especially in countries where the potato originated, because 'papa' was the original indigenous word.