Inklingo

How to Say "scarf" in Spanish

The Spanish word forscarfis pañueloB1 level. This is a very common word in everyday Spanish.

English → SpanishB1
nounB1
small, decorative neck scarf or bandana
A person's neck wearing a small, brightly patterned silk scarf tied loosely.

Examples

Se ató el pañuelo rojo a la cabeza para protegerse del sol.

She tied the red bandana around her head to protect herself from the sun.

Llevaba un elegante pañuelo de seda al cuello.

He was wearing an elegant silk scarf around his neck.

Context is Key

When someone mentions a 'pañuelo' being worn, they are almost certainly referring to a fashion accessory like a small scarf or bandana, not a tissue for the nose.

Bufanda vs. Pañuelo

Mistake:Using 'pañuelo' for a long, heavy winter scarf.

Correction: The correct word for a large, warm winter scarf is 'bufanda'. 'Pañuelo' is usually small and light.

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