Inklingo

How to Say "gifts" in Spanish

English → Spanish

regalos

reh-GAH-los/reˈɣalos/

NounA1General
Use 'regalos' for gifts in a general sense, or when referring to gifts being given or exchanged, particularly in a celebratory context.
A stack of three brightly colored wrapped rectangular gift boxes of different sizes, each tied with a contrasting ribbon and bow.

Examples

Abrimos los regalos después de la cena.

We opened the gifts after dinner.

¿Cuántos regalos trajiste para la fiesta?

How many presents did you bring for the party?

Queremos comprar regalos especiales para los niños.

We want to buy special gifts for the children.

Plural Noun Rule

Since 'regalo' (the singular form) ends in a vowel ('o'), you just add '-s' to make it plural: 'regalo' becomes 'regalos'.

Confusing 'Regalo' and 'Regalar'

Mistake: “Using 'regalar' when you mean the noun 'gift' (e.g., 'Necesito un regalar').”

Correction: Use the noun 'regalo' (singular) or 'regalos' (plural). 'Regalar' is the verb meaning 'to give a gift'.

presentes

preh-SEN-tehs/preˈsen.tes/

NounA2General
Use 'presentes' specifically for gifts that you have received, often implying they were given to you by someone else, especially during holidays or celebrations.
A stack of three brightly colored, neatly wrapped gift boxes tied with bows, suggesting presents.

Examples

Los niños abrieron todos sus presentes de Navidad.

The children opened all their Christmas presents.

Gracias por los presentes que me trajiste de tu viaje.

Thank you for the gifts you brought me from your trip.

Common Synonym

While 'presentes' is perfectly correct, 'regalos' is the most frequent word for 'gifts' in everyday conversation.

Regalos vs. Presentes

Learners often use 'presentes' too broadly. Remember that while both can mean 'gifts', 'regalos' is the more common and versatile term for gifts in general. 'Presentes' is more specifically for gifts *you receive*.

Related Translations

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