Inklingo

How to Say "pattern" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word forpatternis patrónuse 'patrón' when referring to a visual design that repeats, a template for making something (like sewing), or a predictable sequence of events or behaviors..

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patrón

nounB1general
Use 'patrón' when referring to a visual design that repeats, a template for making something (like sewing), or a predictable sequence of events or behaviors.

Examples

El tejedor usó un patrón de diamantes para la manta.

The weaver used a diamond pattern for the blanket.

diseño

nounA2general
Choose 'diseño' when you mean a specific decorative scheme, a plan, or the aesthetic arrangement of something.

Examples

Me encanta el diseño de esta camiseta.

I love the design of this t-shirt.

estructura

ess-troo-KTOO-rah/es.tɾukˈtu.ɾa/

nounB2academic
Use 'estructura' to describe the underlying arrangement or framework of something, such as a sentence, a building, or an organization.
A simple illustration showing three colorful, interlocking gears of varying sizes, arranged to show a functional, organized system.

Examples

La estructura de la novela es compleja.

The structure of the novel is complex.

El lingüista analizó la estructura sintáctica de la frase.

The linguist analyzed the syntactic framework of the sentence.

La estructura narrativa de la película era muy innovadora.

The narrative structure of the film was very innovative.

Conceptual Use

When talking about how ideas or language rules fit together, 'estructura' refers to the underlying rules or arrangement, not just the surface appearance.

síndrome

nounB2medical/psychological
Employ 'síndrome' specifically when referring to a recognized set of recurring negative behaviors, characteristics, or symptoms, often in a psychological context.

Examples

El síndrome de Burnout afecta a muchos profesionales.

Burnout syndrome affects many professionals.

Patrón vs. Diseño

Learners often confuse 'patrón' and 'diseño'. Remember that 'patrón' usually implies repetition or a template, like a floral pattern on fabric or a sewing pattern. 'Diseño' is broader, referring to the overall aesthetic plan or decorative scheme.

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