rastro
/RRAH-stroh/
trace
Rastro as a 'trace' or small sign left behind.
rastro(noun)
trace
?small sign or remnant
,track
?path left by something moving
trail
?path or series of signs
,sign
?evidence
📝 In Action
No dejó ningún rastro de su visita.
A2He didn't leave any trace of his visit.
Los excursionistas siguieron el rastro de las huellas en la nieve.
B1The hikers followed the track of the footprints in the snow.
El rastro de neumáticos era muy claro en el barro.
A2The tire track was very clear in the mud.
💡 Grammar Points
Masculine Noun
Remember that 'rastro' is always a masculine word, so it uses 'el' (el rastro) and masculine adjectives (un rastro viejo).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Confusing Rastro and Pista
Mistake: "Using 'pista' when referring to a continuous, physical trail left on the ground."
Correction: 'Rastro' usually refers to the physical marks left behind, while 'pista' is often used for abstract clues or a general sports track.
⭐ Usage Tips
Use for Evidence
If you are talking about evidence of a crime or a mystery, 'rastro' is a great word for the small, remaining signs.
Following the rastro, the scent left by an animal.
📝 In Action
El perro olfateó el rastro del conejo.
B1The dog sniffed the rabbit's scent.
Aún queda un rastro de humo en la habitación.
B2There is still a trace/smell of smoke left in the room.
⭐ Usage Tips
Figurative Use
You can use 'rastro' metaphorically to talk about a lingering impression or feeling someone leaves behind, not just a physical smell.
Visiting the rastro, or flea market, to find second-hand treasures.
📝 In Action
Pasamos la mañana buscando gangas en el rastro.
B1We spent the morning looking for bargains at the flea market.
El Rastro de Madrid es famoso mundialmente.
B1The Rastro of Madrid (a famous flea market) is world-famous.
💡 Grammar Points
Capitalization Tip
When referring to the specific, famous market in Madrid, Spain, it is usually capitalized: 'El Rastro'.
⭐ Usage Tips
Cultural Context
This meaning is often linked to the idea of searching for or 'tracking down' old, interesting items.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: rastro
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'rastro' to mean 'flea market'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'rastro' the same as 'huella'?
Not exactly. 'Huella' is a specific, individual mark, like a footprint or fingerprint. 'Rastro' is a more general term for the whole trail, series of signs, or overall evidence left behind.
Can 'rastro' be used for a bad smell?
Yes, it often refers to a strong, lingering smell, sometimes unpleasant, like the 'rastro' of sulfur or smoke.