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How to Say "pouch" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “pouch” is “bolsa” — use 'bolsa' when referring to a standalone, flexible container or bag, like a small shopping bag or a drawstring pouch..

English → Spanish

bolsa

/bol-sah//ˈbol.sa/

nounA1general
Use 'bolsa' when referring to a standalone, flexible container or bag, like a small shopping bag or a drawstring pouch.
A simple, colorful plastic shopping bag, slightly crumpled, resting on a flat surface.

Examples

Me guardé las monedas en una pequeña bolsa de tela.

I kept the coins in a small cloth pouch.

¿Puedes traerme una bolsa de papel?

Can you bring me a paper bag?

Necesitamos tirar la basura en una bolsa grande.

We need to throw the trash in a large bag.

Feminine Noun

Remember that 'bolsa' is always feminine. Use 'la bolsa' and describe it with feminine adjectives (e.g., 'una bolsa roja' - a red bag).

bolsillo

bol-SEE-yo/bolˈsiʎo/

nounA1general
Use 'bolsillo' exclusively for a pocket sewn into garments like trousers, shirts, or jackets.
A close-up view of a simple, empty, blue denim pocket sewn into a piece of clothing.

Examples

El teléfono cabe perfectamente en el bolsillo de mi abrigo.

The phone fits perfectly in the pouch of my coat.

Siempre llevo mis llaves en el bolsillo derecho del pantalón.

I always carry my keys in the right pocket of my trousers.

Esta chaqueta tiene un bolsillo interior muy útil para la cartera.

This jacket has a very useful inside pocket for the wallet.

Masculine Noun

Remember to always use the masculine article 'el' or 'un' before 'bolsillo' since it ends in -o.

Bolsa vs. Bolsillo

The most common mistake is using 'bolsa' when you mean a pocket sewn onto clothing. Remember, 'bolsillo' is specifically for garment pockets, while 'bolsa' is for any general bag or pouch.

Related Translations

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