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How to Say "clearings" in Spanish

English → Spanish

claros

/KLAH-rohs//ˈkla.ɾos/

nounB1general
Use 'claros' for general open spaces, including gaps in clouds, breaks in a forest, or any general open area. It is the most versatile and common term.
An open grassy space in the middle of a dense green forest with sunlight streaming down.

Examples

Vimos un claro en el bosque donde podíamos descansar.

We saw a clearing in the forest where we could rest.

Hay algunos claros entre las nubes.

There are some gaps between the clouds.

Caminamos por los claros del bosque.

We walked through the clearings in the forest.

Naming the Space

In this case, 'claros' isn't describing something else; it is the thing itself (the space or the gap).

abras

/AH-brahs//ˈa.βɾas/

nounC1specific
Use 'abras' specifically for natural openings or passes in mountainous or forested regions, often implying a larger, more rugged area.
A wide path or gap between two tall, green mountains under a blue sky.

Examples

Los pastores conducían sus rebaños por las abras de la montaña.

The shepherds led their flocks through the mountain passes.

Caminamos por las abras de la cordillera.

We walked through the mountain passes of the range.

Plural Nouns

'Abras' is the plural form of 'abra'. It functions just like any other feminine noun.

General vs. Specific Openings

Learners often confuse 'claros' and 'abras' by using the more general 'claros' in contexts where the specific meaning of 'abras' (mountain pass or rugged forest opening) is intended. Remember that 'claros' can also mean 'gaps' in the sky, a meaning 'abras' does not have.

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