How to Say "sample" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “sample” is “muestra” — use 'muestra' when referring to a small portion of something given for tasting, testing, or promotional purposes, like a free sample of food or a product..
muestra
MOO-ehs-trah/ˈmwestra/
Examples
¿Podría darme una muestra del queso?
Could you give me a sample of the cheese?
El doctor pidió una muestra de orina.
The doctor requested a urine specimen.
La exposición es una muestra del arte moderno.
The exhibition is a display of modern art.
Gender Tip
Remember that muestra is always feminine: la muestra. This is essential for pairing it with the correct articles and adjectives.
prueba
/prweh-bah//ˈpɾweβa/
Examples
Me dieron una prueba gratuita del gimnasio.
They gave me a free trial/sample of the gym.
Tengo una prueba de español el viernes.
I have a Spanish test on Friday.
No hay prueba de que él estuviera allí.
There is no proof that he was there.
El detective busca pruebas para resolver el caso.
The detective is looking for evidence to solve the case.
Making Things 'Proof'
To say something is resistant to something else, like 'waterproof' or 'bulletproof', you can use the pattern 'a prueba de' + noun. For example, 'un reloj a prueba de agua' (a waterproof watch).
Prueba vs. Examen
Mistake: “Using 'prueba' and 'examen' as if they are exactly the same.”
Correction: They are very similar! Often, an 'examen' is a bigger, more formal test (like a final exam), while a 'prueba' can be a smaller test or quiz. But this can change depending on the country or school.
Muestra vs. Prueba
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