How to Say "makings" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “makings” is “madera” — B2 level.
Examples
Este joven tiene madera de campeón.
This young person has the makings of a champion (or: champion potential).
Creo que tienes madera para ser un gran jefe.
I think you have the potential to be a great boss.
Al principio dudaba, pero demostró tener mucha madera para el baile.
At first, I doubted it, but she showed she had a lot of talent for dancing.
Figurative Use
This meaning is almost always used in the construction 'tener madera de...' (to have the wood/stuff of...) followed by the role or goal, like 'campeón' or 'artista'.
Using 'la' or 'una'
Mistake: “Decir 'Tiene la madera para ser doctor.'”
Correction: When used figuratively, 'madera' usually does NOT take the definite article 'la'. Say: 'Tiene madera para ser doctor.' (He has the potential to be a doctor).
Learn Spanish with Inklingo
Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.