sostén
/sohs-TEN/
bra
In its most common usage, 'sostén' refers to a 'bra' or 'brassiere'.
📝 In Action
Necesito comprar un sostén deportivo para ir al gimnasio.
A2I need to buy a sports bra to go to the gym.
El sostén está en el cajón de la ropa interior.
A1The bra is in the underwear drawer.
Este sostén me da buen soporte.
B1This bra gives me good support.
💡 Grammar Points
Gender Trap
Even though this item is traditionally associated with women, 'sostén' is a masculine noun, so you must use 'el' (el sostén).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Using the wrong article
Mistake: "La sostén"
Correction: El sostén (Remember it's masculine, like 'el soporte').
⭐ Usage Tips
Regional Differences
In Spain, 'sujetador' is much more common. 'Sostén' is widely understood but preferred in many parts of Latin America.
'Sostén' can also mean 'support,' often referring to structural stability or a basis for something.
sostén(noun)
support
?moral or structural basis
,sustenance
?financial or material aid
maintenance
?keeping something going
📝 In Action
La familia es el sostén emocional en tiempos difíciles.
B1The family is the emotional support during difficult times.
El sostén económico del proyecto depende de los donativos.
B2The financial sustenance of the project depends on donations.
La columna sirve de sostén para todo el techo.
B2The column serves as support for the entire roof.
💡 Grammar Points
Abstract Use
In this sense, 'sostén' means the act or means of supporting something, similar to the verb 'sostener' (to sustain or hold up).
⭐ Usage Tips
Formal Context
This meaning is often found in formal writing, news reports, or when discussing abstract concepts like economics or relationships.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: sostén
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'sostén' in its abstract meaning of 'support'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'sostén' the only word for 'bra' in Spanish?
No. While 'sostén' is very common, especially in Latin America, you will also hear 'sujetador' (especially in Spain) and 'corpiño' (in some Southern Cone countries). All are correct, but usage varies by region.
Why is 'sostén' masculine?
Because it is derived directly from the masculine noun 'el sostén' (the support) which comes from the verb 'sostener' (to hold up). The grammatical gender is tied to its root meaning of 'support,' not the item itself.