Inklingo

How to Say "overalls" in Spanish

English → Spanish

mono

MOH-nohˈmo.no

nounB1work clothing
Use 'mono' when referring to protective work clothing, such as that worn by painters or mechanics, to keep the underlying clothes clean.
A simple, bright red, full-length jumpsuit hanging neatly on a wooden clothes hanger.

Examples

Ponte el mono de pintor para no mancharte la ropa.

Put on the painter's overalls so you don't stain your clothes.

Compró un mono elegante para la fiesta.

She bought a stylish jumpsuit for the party.

braga

bra-gahˈbɾa.ɣa

nounB2work clothes or fashion
Use 'braga' for overalls that are either fashion items or functional work clothes, especially when the protective aspect is less emphasized.
A pair of denim overalls with straps and a front bib pocket.

Examples

El mecánico lleva una braga azul.

The mechanic is wearing blue overalls.

Me puse una braga elegante para la fiesta.

I put on an elegant jumpsuit for the party.

Esa braga de jean te queda muy bien.

Those denim overalls look great on you.

Singular Use

In this regional context, it is almost always singular ('la braga') when referring to one outfit.

Spain vs. Venezuela

Mistake:Saying 'Tengo una braga nueva' in Spain while meaning a jumpsuit.

Correction: In Spain, people will think you mean a neck warmer or (weirdly) a single panty. Use 'mono' in Spain for a jumpsuit.

Mono vs. Braga

The most common mistake is using 'braga' when 'mono' is more appropriate for specific protective work gear. While 'braga' can sometimes refer to work clothes, 'mono' is the go-to term for painter's or mechanic's suits designed for protection.

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