How to Say "inlet" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “inlet” is “boca” — use 'boca' when referring to the mouth or entrance of something, like a river, bay, or even a metaphorical opening like a subway entrance.
English → Spanish
boca
BO-kaˈboka
nounB1general
Use 'boca' when referring to the mouth or entrance of something, like a river, bay, or even a metaphorical opening like a subway entrance.
Examples
La boca del río se ensancha antes de llegar al mar.
The river's mouth widens before reaching the sea.
Esperamos en la boca del metro.
We waited at the entrance of the subway.
La boca del río Amazonas es enorme.
The mouth of the Amazon River is enormous.
La luz entraba por la boca de la cueva.
Light came in through the mouth of the cave.
ría
nounB2geographical
Use 'ría' specifically for a coastal landform where a river valley has been flooded by the sea, creating a long, narrow inlet.
Examples
Viajamos en barco por la ría de Vigo.
We traveled by boat through the Ria of Vigo.
Distinguishing 'boca' from 'ría'
Learners often confuse 'boca' and 'ría' by using 'boca' for all types of sea inlets. Remember that 'ría' is a specific geographical term for a drowned river valley on the coast, while 'boca' is a more general term for an opening or mouth.
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