Inklingo

How to Say "glue" in Spanish

English → Spanish

cola

/KOH-lah//ˈko.la/

nounB1
Use 'cola' when referring to the adhesive substance used for sticking things together, like in crafts or repairs.
A bottle of white liquid glue dripping a blob onto colorful paper.

Examples

Usa esta cola fuerte para fijar la madera rota.

Use this strong glue to fix the broken wood.

Compramos un bote grande de cola blanca para el proyecto escolar.

We bought a large jar of white glue for the school project.

Confusing Nouns

Mistake: “Using 'pegamento' when referring specifically to certain types of liquid glue common in crafts (where 'cola' is often preferred).”

Correction: While 'pegamento' is always correct for 'glue,' 'cola' is very common for standard white glue or woodworking adhesive.

pega

PEH-gah/ˈpe.ɣa/

nounA2informal
Choose 'pega' when you need a simple, everyday word for adhesive, often used in informal situations when asking for a small amount.
A simple, open bottle of white liquid adhesive glue, with a large drop hanging from the nozzle, ready to fall.

Examples

Se me rompió la taza, ¿tienes un poco de pega?

My mug broke, do you have some glue?

Esta pega es muy fuerte y seca rápido.

This adhesive is very strong and dries quickly.

Feminine Noun

Remember that 'pega' is feminine, so you always use 'la pega' or 'una pega'.

chicle

/CHEE-kleh//ˈtʃikle/

nounB2informal
Use 'chicle' metaphorically to describe a person who sticks to someone else or follows them around persistently, like chewing gum.
A small puppy following a person's heels very closely.

Examples

Mi hermano pequeño es un chicle, me sigue a todas partes.

My little brother is so clingy, he follows me everywhere.

Using 'Ser'

When describing someone as clingy with this word, always use the verb 'ser' (to be) because it's considered a personality trait or a consistent behavior.

Confusing Adhesive vs. Clingy Person

The most common mistake is using 'chicle' to refer to actual adhesive glue. Remember, 'chicle' is only used metaphorically for a person who follows you around. For the sticky substance, always use 'cola' or 'pega'.

Related Translations

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