How to Say "early stages" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “early stages” is “pañales” — use 'en pañales' (in diapers) figuratively to describe something that is in its very initial phase, undeveloped, or just starting out.
Use 'en pañales' (in diapers) figuratively to describe something that is in its very initial phase, undeveloped, or just starting out.
Learn more →Use 'en pañal' (in diaper) to describe a project or idea that is in its absolute infancy and has not yet developed significantly.
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Use 'las primeras' (the first ones) when referring to the initial group or set of people or things, often in a comparative or ranking context.
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Examples
El plan aún está en pañales; necesitamos más detalles.
The plan is still in diapers; we need more details.
pañal
Examples
El proyecto de inteligencia artificial aún está en pañal.
The artificial intelligence project is still in its infancy.
pree-MEH-rahspɾiˈmeɾas
Examples
De todas las candidatas, las primeras eran las más calificadas.
Of all the candidates, the first ones were the most qualified.
Llegó a primeras de la tarde y se fue enseguida.
She arrived in the early afternoon and left immediately.
Acting as a Noun
When used without a noun (like 'the first ones'), the article 'las' makes 'primeras' function as a noun, taking the place of the thing being discussed.
Figurative vs. Idiomatic Use
Learners often confuse 'en pañales' (figurative) with 'las primeras' (idiomatic). Remember that 'en pañales' specifically means 'in its infancy' or 'just starting', while 'las primeras' refers to the initial group or set of something.
Related Translations
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