How to Say "contusion" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “contusion” is “cardenal” — use 'cardenal' for a general, visible bruise on the body resulting from impact, typically informal.
English → Spanish
cardenal
kar-deh-NALLkaɾ.ðeˈnal
nounB2medical term
Use 'cardenal' for a general, visible bruise on the body resulting from impact, typically informal.
Examples
Me caí y ahora tengo un cardenal grande en la pierna.
I fell and now I have a big bruise on my leg.
El golpe le dejó un cardenal morado.
The hit left him a purple bruise.
Color Connection
This meaning comes from the deep reddish-purple color associated with both the church official's robes and the bird, which is similar to the color of a fresh bruise.
contusión
nounB2medical or legal terminology
Use 'contusión' when referring to a bruise in a more technical, medical, or legal context, or when discussing internal bruising.
Examples
El jugador se retiró del campo con una contusión en la rodilla.
The player left the field with a bruise on his knee.
Informal vs. Formal Bruises
Learners often use 'contusión' for everyday bruises, making their Spanish sound overly technical. Remember that 'cardenal' is the everyday word for a simple bruise, while 'contusión' is reserved for more formal or medical situations.
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