Inklingo

How to Say "stitch" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “stitch” is “punto” — use 'punto' when referring to a single pass of a needle and thread in sewing, knitting, or when a doctor closes a wound with sutures.

English → Spanish

punto

poon-tohˈpun.to

nounB1general
Use 'punto' when referring to a single pass of a needle and thread in sewing, knitting, or when a doctor closes a wound with sutures.
A close-up, highly detailed view of simple blue yarn being knitted, focusing on the distinct, interlocking loops that form a single stitch.

Examples

El sastre usó un hilo fuerte para cada punto de la costura.

The tailor used a strong thread for each stitch of the seam.

El médico me tuvo que dar tres puntos en la rodilla.

The doctor had to give me three stitches in my knee.

Mi abuela me está enseñando a hacer punto.

My grandmother is teaching me how to knit.

Este suéter está hecho a punto.

This sweater is hand-knitted.

pinchazo

peen-CHAH-sohpinˈt͡ʃaθo

nounB2informal
Use 'pinchazo' to describe a sudden, sharp pain, often experienced in the side while exercising intensely.
A stylized character clutching their side with a jagged yellow spark shape indicating a sudden sharp pain.

Examples

Tuve que parar de correr porque sentí un pinchazo agudo en el costado.

I had to stop running because I felt a sharp stitch in my side.

Siento un pinchazo en el pecho cuando respiro hondo.

I feel a sharp pain in my chest when I breathe deeply.

Me dio un pinchazo en el costado mientras corría.

I got a stitch in my side while I was running.

Sentí un pinchazo en la espalda al levantar la caja.

I felt a twinge in my back when lifting the box.

Describing sudden pain

Spanish often uses the verb 'dar' (to give) with pinchazo: 'Me dio un pinchazo' means the pain 'gave me' a sharp feeling.

Pain vs. Thread

The most common mistake is confusing the sharp, fleeting pain of a 'pinchazo' with the literal stitch made by a needle, which is 'punto'. Remember, 'punto' is about sewing or sutures, while 'pinchazo' is about a sudden physical discomfort.

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