Inklingo

How to Say "finishing touch" in Spanish

English → Spanish

broche

/bro-che//ˈbɾotʃe/

nounB2general
Use 'broche' when referring to the final, perfect element that completes an event, project, or experience, often adding a sense of elegance or finality.
A bright red cherry being placed on top of a whipped cream swirl on a cupcake.

Examples

El concierto fue un éxito, y la aparición sorpresa de la banda invitada fue el broche de oro.

The concert was a success, and the surprise appearance of the guest band was the golden finishing touch.

El postre fue el broche de oro de la cena.

The dessert was the perfect finishing touch to the dinner.

Su discurso puso el broche a la ceremonia.

His speech brought the ceremony to a close.

Ese gol fue el broche final para un partido increíble.

That goal was the grand finale for an incredible match.

Using it as a climax

When used figuratively, 'broche' usually appears at the end of a sentence to describe how something finished.

Confusing with 'fin'

Mistake: “El concierto tuvo un buen fin.”

Correction: El concierto tuvo un gran broche de oro.

remate

/reh-MAH-teh//reˈmate/

nounB1design/architecture
Use 'remate' for the decorative or structural finishing element of a building, furniture, or design, such as the top of a column or the edge of a piece of wood.
A artisan's hand placing a golden decorative ornament on top of a stone pillar.

Examples

El remate de la cornisa le da un toque clásico a la fachada.

The finishing touch of the cornice gives a classic look to the facade.

La chimenea tiene un remate de piedra muy elegante.

The chimney has a very elegant stone finishing touch.

Este adorno es el remate perfecto para la decoración.

This ornament is the perfect finishing touch for the decoration.

Como remate a su discurso, leyó un poema breve.

To conclude his speech, he read a short poem.

Using 'el' with remate

Even though it ends in 'e', it is a masculine word. Always use 'el' or 'un'.

Remate vs. Final

Mistake: “Using 'remate' for the end of a movie.”

Correction: Use 'final' for the end of a story or movie. Use 'remate' for a physical finish or a final capping action.

Broche vs. Remate

Learners often confuse 'broche' and 'remate' by using 'remate' for events or projects. Remember that 'broche' is for the final flourish of an experience, while 'remate' is a physical, often decorative, end piece in design or construction.

Related Translations

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