Inklingo

How to Say "softness" in Spanish

English → Spanish

suavidad

/swah-bee-DAHD//swaβiˈðað/

nounA2general
Use 'suavidad' when referring to the physical texture or tactile quality of a surface, like fabric, skin, or hair.
A fluffy, white feather resting on a plush, velvet cushion.

Examples

La suavidad de la seda es increíble.

The softness of the silk is incredible.

Esta crema hidratante aporta suavidad a tu piel.

This moisturizing cream brings softness to your skin.

Me gusta la suavidad de estas toallas nuevas.

I like the softness of these new towels.

Always Feminine

Words ending in '-dad' are almost always feminine in Spanish, so you should always use 'la' or 'una' with it.

The 'v' sound

Mistake:Pronouncing the 'v' like an English 'v'.

Correction: In Spanish, the 'v' and 'b' sound exactly the same—a soft 'b' sound. Try saying 'swah-bee-dahd'.

ternura

/ter-NOO-rah//teɾˈnuɾa/

nounB1general
Use 'ternura' to describe a gentle, tender quality, often associated with emotions, but can also apply to the delicate texture of food like cooked meat or to a very gentle touch.
A gentle illustration of a person's hand softly stroking a small kitten.

Examples

Siento mucha ternura cuando veo a mi perro dormir.

I feel a lot of tenderness when I see my dog sleeping.

Ella me miró con una ternura infinita.

She looked at me with infinite tenderness.

La ternura del filete era increíble.

The tenderness of the steak was incredible.

Using 'Dar' vs 'Sentir'

To say something is 'cute' or makes you feel tender, use the verb 'dar' (to give). For example: 'Ese gato me da ternura' (That cat gives me tenderness/makes me feel tender).

Abstract Nouns

Like many Spanish words ending in '-ura', this is an abstract noun. It describes a quality rather than a physical object you can hold.

Ternura vs. Tierno

Mistake:Esa película es mucha ternura.

Correction: Esa película tiene mucha ternura OR Esa película es muy tierna.

Physical vs. Emotional Softness

The most common mistake is using 'ternura' for physical texture when 'suavidad' is more appropriate. Remember, 'suavidad' is primarily for touch and texture, while 'ternura' leans towards emotional tenderness or a very delicate, gentle quality.

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