How to Say "early stages" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “early stages” is “pañales” — use 'pañales' figuratively when referring to the very beginning, foundational phase of something, like a project or an idea..
pañales
Examples
El proyecto todavía está en pañales, necesitamos más financiación.
The project is still in its diapers (early stages), we need more funding.
primeras
/pree-MEH-rahs//pɾiˈmeɾas/
Examples
Las primeras de la lista serán atendidas primero.
The first ones on the list will be attended to first.
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
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