Inklingo

How to Say "short story" in Spanish

English → Spanish

cuento

KWEN-tohˈkwen̪.t̪o

nounA1literary work
Use 'cuento' for a general short narrative, especially when referring to children's stories, fables, or a simple tale told for entertainment.
A small child listening intently to an adult reading from an open storybook, with imaginative elements like stars floating above the book.

Examples

¿Leemos un cuento antes de acostarnos?

Shall we read a story before going to bed?

Mi abuela siempre me contaba cuentos de hadas.

My grandmother always used to tell me fairy tales.

Este escritor es famoso por sus cuentos cortos.

This writer is famous for his short stories.

Masculine Noun

Even though 'historia' (story) is feminine, 'cuento' is always a masculine noun. Use 'el cuento' or 'un cuento'.

relato

re-LAH-tohreˈlato

nounA2a specific literary genre
Choose 'relato' when referring to a specific narrative account, often a more developed story, or one that belongs to a particular genre or is based on personal experience.
A colorful open book with magical sparkles rising from the pages.

Examples

Escribí un relato sobre mis vacaciones.

I wrote a story about my vacation.

El testigo dio un relato detallado del accidente.

The witness gave a detailed account of the accident.

Me encantan los relatos de misterio.

I love mystery stories.

Gender of 'Relato'

This word is masculine, so you always use 'el' or 'un' with it. For example, 'el relato' (the story).

'Relato' vs. 'Historia'

While both can mean 'story,' a 'relato' is usually a shorter, more specific piece of writing or a specific person's version of an event.

Using 'Relato' for Business Reports

Mistake: “Hice un relato para mi jefe.”

Correction: Hice un informe para mi jefe.

General vs. Specific Narrative

Learners often confuse 'cuento' and 'relato' by using 'cuento' for every type of short story. Remember that 'cuento' is the default, everyday term, while 'relato' suggests a more formal or specific type of narrative, like a personal account or a genre piece.

Related Translations

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.