Inklingo

How to Say "lump" in Spanish

English → Spanish

bulto

BOOL-tohˈbulto

nounB2general
Use 'bulto' when referring to a physical swelling or bump on the body.
A small, rounded bump on a person's forearm.

Examples

Me salió un bulto en la rodilla después de la caída.

A lump appeared on my knee after the fall.

Se nota un bulto bajo la alfombra.

You can see a bulge under the rug.

El médico dice que el bulto no es peligroso.

The doctor says the lump is not dangerous.

Describing Locations

When talking about a lump on the body, use the preposition 'en' to say where it is located (e.g., 'en el cuello').

Bulto vs. Chichón

Mistake: “Calling a bump on the head from an accident a 'bulto'.”

Correction: Use 'chichón' specifically for that goose-egg bump you get from hitting your head.

nudo

NOO-dohˈnuðo

nounB1general
Use 'nudo' to describe a tight sensation in your throat or stomach, often caused by emotions like nervousness or sadness.
A small bird looking sad with a visible glowing lump in its throat area.

Examples

Tenía un nudo en la garganta durante la despedida.

I had a lump in my throat during the farewell.

Siento un nudo en el estómago por los nervios del examen.

I feel a knot in my stomach because of exam nerves.

Physical Bump vs. Emotional Sensation

The most common mistake is using 'bulto' for the emotional feeling in your throat or stomach. Remember, 'bulto' is for a physical swelling, while 'nudo' describes that constricted feeling caused by emotions.

Related Translations

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