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How to Say "shorts" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “shorts” is “cortos” — use this word when referring to the outer garment worn on the legs, typically for warm weather or athletic activities..

English → Spanish

cortos

KOR-tohs/ˈkoɾtos/

nounA2informal or general
Use this word when referring to the outer garment worn on the legs, typically for warm weather or athletic activities.
A high quality simple colorful storybook illustration of a simple pair of blue denim shorts, folded neatly and lying flat, representing the article of clothing.

Examples

Hace calor, así que todos llevamos cortos.

It's hot, so we are all wearing shorts.

Mis cortos favoritos están en la lavadora.

My favorite shorts are in the washing machine.

calzoncillos

/kal-son-SEE-yos//kalsonˈsiʝos/

nounA1informal or regional
Use this word specifically for men's underwear or underpants.
A pair of men's boxer-style underwear laid flat on a solid blue background.

Examples

Tengo que comprar calzoncillos nuevos.

I have to buy new underpants.

¿Dónde pusiste mis calzoncillos limpios?

Where did you put my clean underwear?

Prefiero los calzoncillos de algodón.

I prefer cotton briefs.

Always Plural

Just like 'pants' or 'scissors' in English, we usually use this word in its plural form even when talking about just one item.

Singular vs. Plural

Mistake: “Busco un calzoncillo.”

Correction: Busco unos calzoncillos.

Shorts vs. Underpants

The most common mistake is using 'calzoncillos' when you mean the outer garment 'shorts'. Remember, 'calzoncillos' refers specifically to underwear, while 'cortos' is the general term for the clothing item you wear on your legs in warm weather.

Related Translations

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