Inklingo

How to Say "bullfight" in Spanish

English → Spanish

corrida

/ko-rree-dah//koˈriða/

nounA2traditional spectacle
Use 'corrida' specifically to refer to the traditional spectacle or event of the bullfight itself.
A matador in a traditional gold-trimmed suit holding a large red cape in front of a bull in a sandy arena.

Examples

La corrida de toros comienza a las cinco de la tarde.

The bullfight starts at five in the afternoon.

¿A qué hora sale la última corrida para la Ciudad de México?

What time does the last bus run leave for Mexico City?

Llevo una semana corrida de mucho trabajo.

I've had a straight week of a lot of work.

Feminine Noun

Even though 'corrida' comes from the verb 'correr' (to run), it is always a feminine word. Use 'la' or 'una' with it.

Using 'de corrida' as a Description

When you want to say you did something without stopping, use 'de corrida' after the action. For example: 'Leí el libro de corrida' (I read the book in one sitting).

Corrida vs. Carrera

Mistake: “Voy a participar en una corrida de 5km.”

Correction: Voy a participar en una carrera de 5km. Use 'carrera' for athletic races; 'corrida' is mostly for bullfights or bus schedules.

toro

/TOH-roh//ˈtoɾo/

nounB1cultural event/spectacle
Use 'toro' when referring to the cultural event or spectacle in a broader sense, or when talking about the bullring (plaza de toros).
A scene depicting a bullfight, showing a charging black bull focused on a small red cape held by a matador in a large circular sandy arena.

Examples

Iremos a la plaza de toros este domingo.

We will go to the bullring this Sunday.

El toro es una tradición muy antigua en esa región.

The bullfight (or bullfighting) is a very old tradition in that region.

Using 'Plaza de Toros'

When talking about the location, the phrase 'plaza de toros' is standard. Notice that 'toros' is plural here.

Corrida vs. Toro

Learners often confuse 'corrida' and 'toro' because both relate to bullfights. Remember that 'corrida' specifically names the event, while 'toro' can be used more generally for the spectacle or the place (bullring).

Related Translations

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