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How to Say "seafaring" in Spanish

English → Spanish

marinero

/mah-ree-NEH-roh//maɾiˈneɾo/

adjectiveB1general
Use 'marinero' when describing something that has a nautical style or appearance, like clothing or decor, rather than the act of traveling by sea.
A simple wooden ship's steering wheel, also known as a helm, centered on a blue background representing the ocean.

Examples

El uniforme tiene un estilo marinero.

The uniform has a nautical style.

El estilo marinero, con rayas azules y blancas, está de moda.

The nautical style, with blue and white stripes, is in fashion.

Necesitamos un buen nudo marinero para asegurar la vela.

We need a good sailor's knot (nautical knot) to secure the sail.

Adjective Agreement

Like all Spanish adjectives, 'marinero' must change its ending to match the thing it describes: 'un traje marinero' (masculine) but 'una vida marinera' (feminine).

navegación

nounB1general
Use 'navegación' specifically when referring to the skill or activity of planning and directing the course of a ship or other vessel.

Examples

La navegación requiere conocimiento de las corrientes y el viento.

Navigation requires knowledge of currents and wind.

Marinero vs. Navegación

Learners often confuse 'marinero' and 'navegación' because both relate to the sea. Remember, 'marinero' is an adjective describing a style, while 'navegación' is a noun for the act of traveling by sea.

Related Translations

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