sombras
/SOHM-bras/
shadows
The dark shape projected onto a surface when an object blocks light is a sombra (shadow).
sombras(noun)
shadows
?physical darkness
,shade
?area protected from sun
silhouettes
?outline of a figure
📝 In Action
Las sombras de la tarde se hicieron muy largas.
A1The evening shadows became very long.
Buscamos las sombras de un árbol para descansar del sol.
A2We looked for the shade of a tree to rest from the sun.
💡 Grammar Points
Always Plural for This Meaning
Even when referring to a single area of shade, this word is often used in its plural form, 'sombras,' especially when meaning 'the shade' (el área de sombra).
⭐ Usage Tips
Shade vs. Shadow
Use 'sombras' when you are looking for relief from the sun (shade). Use the singular 'sombra' if you are talking about the outline of a specific object or person.
Makeup applied to the eyelids for color is referred to as sombras (eyeshadow).
📝 In Action
Compré unas sombras de ojos de color verde brillante.
A2I bought some bright green eyeshadow.
Ella siempre se pone sombras antes de salir.
B1She always puts on eyeshadow before going out.
💡 Grammar Points
Always Plural
When referring to the cosmetic, 'sombras' is almost always used in the plural, even if you are only talking about one small container of it.
⭐ Usage Tips
Adding Context
You can specify 'sombras de ojos' (shadows of eyes) to make it clear you mean the makeup, though usually just 'sombras' is enough contextually.
When you have sombras (doubts), you feel uncertain or suspicious about a situation.
sombras(noun)
doubts
?suspicions or uncertainties
,gloom
?sadness or obscurity
secrets
?hidden things
📝 In Action
La crisis puso muchas sombras sobre el futuro de la empresa.
B2The crisis cast many doubts on the company's future.
Hay que sacar a la luz las sombras del pasado político.
C1We must bring the secrets (or dark parts) of the political past to light.
💡 Grammar Points
Figurative Extension
This meaning is an easy extension of the physical shadow: just as a shadow conceals things, 'sombras' can mean hidden problems, doubts, or lack of clarity.
⭐ Usage Tips
Context Clues
If 'sombras' is used with abstract nouns like 'duda' (doubt) or 'pasado' (past), assume it means secrets or suspicions, not physical shade.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: sombras
Question 1 of 2
Which meaning of 'sombras' is being used in the sentence: 'Siempre hay sombras de incertidumbre en la política.'
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is 'sombras' (plural) often used when talking about shade (singular)?
Spanish speakers commonly use the plural 'sombras' when referring to a general area of relief from the sun, like saying 'the shades' rather than 'the shade.' If you mean the outline of a specific object, you would use the singular, 'la sombra.'
How do I know if 'sombras' means eyeshadow or actual shadows?
Context is key! If the verb used is 'aplicar' (to apply) or 'comprar' (to buy) and the setting is beauty, it means eyeshadow. If the context involves light, trees, or darkness, it means physical shadows.