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How to Say "pillar" in Spanish

English → Spanish

columna

koh-LOOM-nahkoˈlumna

nounA2general
Use 'columna' for a substantial, architectural support structure, often found in buildings, temples, or monuments.
A tall, sturdy, white classical architectural column with a decorative capital and base, providing support.

Examples

Las columnas del templo griego eran de mármol blanco.

The columns of the Greek temple were made of white marble.

Necesitamos construir una columna de apoyo en el sótano.

We need to build a support column in the basement.

Gender Reminder

Even though 'columna' ends in '-a', it is a feminine noun, which is the most common pattern for Spanish nouns ending in '-a'.

poste

POS-tehˈposte

nounA2general
Use 'poste' for a thinner, more upright support, like a pole for a light, sign, or fence, or metaphorically for something less structurally significant.
A tall wooden utility pole standing against a clear blue sky.

Examples

El coche chocó contra un poste de luz.

The car hit a light pole.

La pelota pegó en el poste de la portería y no fue gol.

The ball hit the goalpost and wasn't a goal.

Tenemos que cambiar los postes de madera de la cerca.

We have to change the wooden fence posts.

Gender Identification

Even though it ends in 'e', 'poste' is a masculine noun. Always use 'el' or 'un' with it.

Plural Form

To make it plural, just add an 's' to the end: 'los postes'.

Confusing Poste with Postre

Mistake: “Quiero comer un poste.”

Correction: Quiero comer un postre.

roca

ROH-kahˈroka

nounB2metaphorical
Use 'roca' metaphorically to describe a person who is a source of strength and support for others, especially during difficult times.
A strong adult figure standing upright and firmly holding up a small, leaning wooden structure to prevent it from collapsing, illustrating support.

Examples

Su madre ha sido la roca de la familia durante todos estos años difíciles.

His mother has been the rock of the family during all these difficult years.

Aunque todo se derrumbó, él se mantuvo como una roca.

Even though everything collapsed, he remained like a rock (steadfast).

Using Figuratively

When using 'roca' to describe a person, you are emphasizing their emotional strength or reliability, not their physical appearance.

Physical vs. Metaphorical Use

Learners often confuse 'columna' and 'poste' when referring to physical supports. Remember that 'columna' implies a larger, more substantial architectural element, while 'poste' refers to a thinner, upright pole. Don't use 'roca' for a physical structure; it's exclusively metaphorical for a person.

Related Translations

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