How to Say "basin" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “basin” is “balsa” — use 'balsa' for a man-made reservoir or pond, typically used for holding or collecting water, often for agricultural or animal purposes.
balsa
BAHL-sahˈbalsa
Examples
El agricultor llenó la balsa para regar los cultivos.
The farmer filled the basin to water the crops.
Las vacas beben agua de la balsa al final del prado.
The cows drink water from the pond at the end of the meadow.
El agricultor construyó una balsa para almacenar agua de riego.
The farmer built a basin to store irrigation water.
Se formó una balsa de agua en la carretera después de la tormenta.
A pool of water formed on the road after the storm.
Quantity vs Location
When 'balsa' means pond/pool, it usually refers to the container or the site where water gathers, rather than the water itself.
Puddle vs Pond
Mistake: “Using 'balsa' for a tiny puddle from rain.”
Correction: Use 'charco' for a small rain puddle. 'Balsa' implies a much larger, deeper gathering of water, often one that is permanent or man-made.
pila
PEE-lahˈpi.la
Examples
Se lavó las manos en la pila del jardín.
She washed her hands in the basin in the garden.
El bebé fue bautizado en la pila de la iglesia.
The baby was baptized in the church's font.
Antes había una pila de piedra en la cocina para lavar la ropa.
There used to be a stone basin in the kitchen for washing clothes.
Balsa vs. Pila
Learn Spanish with Inklingo
Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.