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How to Say "engraving" in Spanish

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grabado

/gra-BAH-doh//ɡɾaˈβaðo/

NounB1General
Use 'grabado' when referring to the finished artwork, such as a print or an etched plate.
A close-up view of a square copper plate with a highly detailed illustration of a single stylized oak tree carved deeply into the surface.

Examples

El museo exhibe una colección de grabados de Goya.

The museum exhibits a collection of Goya's prints/engravings.

Este grabado antiguo vale miles de euros.

This old engraving is worth thousands of euros.

A Piece of Art

When 'grabado' refers to the artwork itself, it is always a masculine noun: 'un grabado' (an engraving).

grabando

grah-BAHN-doh/ɡɾaˈban̪d̪o/

Verb (Gerund)B1General
Use 'grabando' to describe the action of engraving as it is happening, often in a practical or artisanal context.
A detailed illustration of a hand using an engraving tool to carve a geometric pattern into a wooden surface.

Examples

El joyero está grabando las iniciales en el anillo.

The jeweler is engraving the initials on the ring.

Están grabando un mensaje en la piedra para la historia.

They are carving a message into the stone for history.

Same Form, Different Meaning

Notice how 'grabando' uses the exact same form for both 'recording a video' and 'engraving a surface.' Context is key to knowing which meaning is intended.

grabación

NounB1General
While 'grabación' most commonly means 'recording' (audio/video), it can sometimes refer to the act or process of engraving, though this is less frequent.

Examples

La grabación de su nuevo álbum duró seis meses.

The recording (process) of their new album lasted six months.

talla

TAH-yah/ˈtaʎa/

NounB2General
Use 'talla' specifically for intricate, often three-dimensional, carved work, especially in materials like wood or stone, more akin to 'carving' or 'sculpture'.
A detailed but simple wooden carving of a stylized bird resting on a small block of wood, showing the texture of the carving.

Examples

La iglesia está llena de tallas de madera antiguas.

The church is full of ancient wooden carvings (sculptures).

El diamante tiene una talla perfecta que refleja la luz.

The diamond has a perfect cut that reflects the light.

Connection to the Verb

This meaning comes directly from the verb 'tallar,' which means 'to carve' or 'to cut.' 'Talla' is the resulting object or the act itself.

Confusing the Act vs. the Result

Learners often confuse 'grabado' (the finished print/artwork) with 'grabación' (the process, though usually for audio/video). Remember 'grabado' is the noun for the art piece itself, while 'grabando' is the active verb form of the process.

Related Translations

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