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How to Say "deck" in Spanish

English → Spanish

cubierta

/koo-BYEHR-tah//kuˈβjeɾta/

nounB2nautical
Use this word for the main floor or open area on the exterior of a ship or boat.
The wooden deck of a small sailboat floating on calm blue water.

Examples

Salimos a la cubierta superior para ver el atardecer.

We went out onto the upper deck to watch the sunset.

La tripulación limpió la cubierta después de la tormenta.

The crew cleaned the deck after the storm.

terraza

/te-RAH-sah//teˈraθa/

nounA1general
This word refers to a flat, outdoor area, often attached to a building, used for relaxing or dining.
A sunny outdoor stone terrace with a small table, two chairs, and potted plants overlooking a garden.

Examples

Mi apartamento tiene una terraza con vistas al mar.

My apartment has a terrace with sea views.

¿Bebemos algo en la terraza del bar?

Shall we have a drink at the bar's outdoor tables?

En verano, las terrazas de Madrid siempre están llenas.

In summer, the sidewalk cafes in Madrid are always full.

Gender Check

This word is feminine. Always use 'la' or 'una' with it, for example: 'la terraza es grande'.

Terraza vs. Balcón

Mistake: “Using 'balcón' for a large outdoor space.”

Correction: Use 'balcón' for a small platform you stand on, and 'terraza' for a larger area where you can typically fit a table and chairs.

plataforma

/pla-ta-FOR-ma//plataˈfoɾma/

nounA2general
Use this word for a raised level area, such as a train platform, or a stage-like area on a ship or rig.
A simple, raised wooden stage structure set against a plain background, illustrating a physical platform.

Examples

El tren a Madrid sale de la plataforma número tres.

The train to Madrid leaves from platform number three.

Los obreros construyeron una plataforma temporal para pintar el techo.

The workers built a temporary platform to paint the ceiling.

Always Feminine

Even though it ends in '-a', 'plataforma' is a feminine noun, so you must use 'la' or 'una' before it.

Ship Decks vs. Outdoor Spaces

The most common mistake is using 'cubierta' for an outdoor patio or balcony. Remember, 'cubierta' specifically refers to a ship's deck. For a home's outdoor area, use 'terraza'.

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