Inklingo

How to Say "spin" in Spanish

English → Spanish

giro

/HEE-roh//ˈxi.ɾo/

nounA2general
Use 'giro' when referring to a rotation on an axis, often implying a turn in direction or a change in orientation.
A winding, paved path making a sharp 90-degree turn to the right through a bright green field.

Examples

El conductor dio un giro brusco para evitar el obstáculo.

The driver made a sharp turn to avoid the obstacle.

Tienes que dar un giro a la derecha en la esquina.

You have to make a turn to the right at the corner.

El patinador hizo un giro perfecto sobre el hielo.

The skater made a perfect spin on the ice.

Using 'vuelta' and 'giro'

Mistake: “Using 'vuelta' when referring to a specific directional turn (like driving).”

Correction: 'Giro' is better for specific directional turns (left/right). 'Vuelta' often means a lap, a round trip, or a full circle.

vuelta

/bwel-ta//ˈbwelta/

nounA2general
Use 'vuelta' for a complete rotation, a spin that brings something back to its starting orientation, or a quick, often circular, movement.
A colorful wooden spinning top actively rotating on a flat surface, illustrating a turn or rotation.

Examples

El trompo dio una vuelta y se detuvo.

The top made one spin and stopped.

El coche dio una vuelta completa y se detuvo.

The car made a full turn and stopped.

El corredor va por su última vuelta.

The runner is on his last lap.

Giro vs. Vuelta

Learners often confuse 'giro' and 'vuelta' because both relate to turning. Remember that 'giro' usually implies a change in direction or a rotation on an axis, while 'vuelta' often signifies a complete rotation or a circular movement.

Related Translations

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