Inklingo

How to Say "doorway" in Spanish

English → Spanish

entrada

en-TRAH-dah/enˈtɾaða/

nounA1general
Use 'entrada' when referring to the general act of entering or the opening itself, often interchangeably with 'puerta' (door).
A wide, inviting stone archway entrance framed by lush green vines and colorful flowers, leading into a bright space.

Examples

La entrada al edificio está bloqueada.

The entrance to the building is blocked.

La entrada al museo es por la puerta de cristal.

The entrance to the museum is through the glass door.

Esperamos tu entrada triunfal.

We await your triumphant entry.

Feminine Noun

Remember that 'entrada' is a feminine noun, so you always need to use 'la' or 'una' before it: 'la entrada'.

Confusing Place vs. Action

Mistake: “A veces decimos 'la entrada' para hablar de dónde está la gente, pero se refiere al lugar.”

Correction: Aunque 'entrada' puede ser el acto de entrar, lo más común es que se refiera al punto físico de acceso.

portal

poor-TAHL/poɾˈtal/

nounA2general
Use 'portal' for a more formal or grand entrance, especially to significant buildings like churches or palaces, emphasizing the 'gateway' aspect.
A colorful storybook illustration of a large, inviting main entrance to a building, featuring a heavy wooden door framed by a stone archway.

Examples

Cruzamos el portal del antiguo castillo.

We crossed the gateway of the old castle.

El portal de la iglesia estaba decorado con flores.

The main entrance of the church was decorated with flowers.

Esperamos en el portal hasta que llegó la vecina.

We waited in the lobby until the neighbor arrived.

Es un portal antiguo con mucha historia.

It is an old doorway with a lot of history.

Masculine Noun Rule

Even though many Spanish words ending in -al are adjectives (like 'normal'), 'portal' is a masculine noun, so you always use 'el' (el portal).

Entrada vs. Portal

Learners often confuse 'entrada' and 'portal' because both can mean entrance. Remember that 'entrada' is more general and can often replace 'puerta', while 'portal' suggests a more imposing or ceremonial gateway.

Related Translations

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