How to Say "small suitcase" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “small suitcase” is “maletín” — A2 level. This is a very common word in everyday Spanish.
Examples
El abogado olvidó su maletín con los documentos importantes en el taxi.
The lawyer forgot his briefcase with the important documents in the taxi.
Necesito un maletín resistente para llevar mis herramientas de trabajo.
I need a durable case to carry my work tools.
El maletín de primeros auxilios siempre debe estar accesible.
The first aid kit should always be accessible.
Gender Change with Diminutives
The original word, maleta (suitcase), is feminine. However, when we add the ending -ín (which means 'small'), the word becomes masculine: el maletín.
Confusing Size
Mistake: “Using *maletín* for a very large piece of luggage.”
Correction: Use *maleta* or *valija* for large luggage. *Maletín* is specifically for smaller, hand-held items.
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