portada
/por-TAH-dah/
cover

Illustrating the meaning of 'portada' as the cover of a book or magazine.
portada(noun)
cover
?of a book or magazine
,front page
?of a newspaper
title page
?academic context
📝 In Action
Me encanta el diseño de la portada de este libro.
A2I love the design of this book's cover.
La noticia del accidente está en la portada de todos los periódicos.
B1The news of the accident is on the front page of all the newspapers.
💡 Grammar Points
Gender Check
Remember that 'portada' is always feminine, so you must use 'la' or 'una' before it.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Cover vs. Page
Mistake: "Using 'página principal' for the front of a book."
Correction: Use 'portada' for the outside front of a book or magazine. 'Página principal' (or 'portada') is usually reserved for websites.
⭐ Usage Tips
Focus on the Front
The word 'portada' specifically refers to the front face of a publication, where the title and main image appear.

Illustrating the meaning of 'portada' as the homepage of a website.
📝 In Action
Haz clic aquí para volver a la portada del sitio web.
B1Click here to return to the website's homepage.
La portada de la aplicación muestra las noticias más importantes.
B2The app's main page shows the most important news.
💡 Grammar Points
Digital Equivalence
In a digital sense, 'portada' serves the same function as the front cover of a book: it’s the main entry point or summary screen.

Illustrating the meaning of 'portada' as the façade or main entrance of a building.
📝 In Action
La portada gótica de la catedral es una obra maestra de la escultura.
C1The Gothic façade of the cathedral is a masterpiece of sculpture.
Estudiamos la portada barroca del palacio.
C1We studied the baroque main entrance of the palace.
⭐ Usage Tips
Formal Context
When used for buildings, 'portada' usually implies a grand, elaborately decorated, or historically significant entrance, not just any door.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: portada
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'portada' in the context of architecture?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'portada' and 'cubierta'?
'Portada' specifically means the *front* cover or the face where the title is. 'Cubierta' is a more general word for the entire cover or protective wrapping of a book, including the front, back, and spine.
Can I use 'página principal' instead of 'portada' for a website?
Yes, absolutely! 'Página principal' (main page) is a very common and clear synonym for 'portada' when talking about websites or apps.