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How to Say "shadow" in Spanish

English → Spanish

sombra

SOM-brahˈsom.bɾa

nounA1general
Use 'sombra' when referring to the dark shape that an object or person casts by blocking light.
A cartoon dog standing in bright sunlight, casting a sharp, dark shadow on the ground.

Examples

Mi sombra era muy larga al atardecer.

My shadow was very long at sunset.

Vimos la sombra de un pájaro volando sobre nosotros.

We saw the shadow of a bird flying over us.

Feminine Noun Rule

Even though 'sombra' starts with 'so', it is a feminine noun, so always use 'la sombra' (the shadow) or 'una sombra' (a shadow).

oscuro

oh-SKOO-rohosˈkuɾo

nounB2general
Use 'oscuro' to describe a specific area of darkness or gloom, like a deep shadow within a place.
A minimalist depiction of a night sky that is almost entirely deep black, featuring only a small white crescent moon.

Examples

Salimos de la luz y entramos en el oscuro de la caverna.

We left the light and entered the darkness of the cavern.

Trabaja en el oscuro, sin que nadie sepa lo que está haciendo.

He works in the dark, without anyone knowing what he is doing.

Preferred Noun

While 'el oscuro' exists, the most common and standard noun for 'darkness' is the feminine noun 'la oscuridad'. 'El oscuro' is often used poetically or in specific set phrases.

Sombra vs. Oscuro

The most common mistake is using 'oscuro' when you mean the shape cast by an object. Remember, 'sombra' specifically refers to the silhouette or outline created by blocking light. 'Oscuro' is more about the absence of light in an area.

Related Translations

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