Inklingo

How to Say "talons" in Spanish

English → Spanish

garras

/GAH-rrahs//ˈɡaras/

nounA2general
Use 'garras' when referring to the literal, sharp claws found on the feet of birds of prey or other animals used for gripping or hunting.
A close-up of a cat's paw with sharp, curved claws extended.

Examples

El águila sujetó a su presa con sus fuertes garras.

The eagle held its prey with its strong talons.

El gato sacó sus garras para trepar el árbol.

The cat put out its claws to climb the tree.

Ten cuidado con las garras del águila.

Be careful with the eagle's talons.

Always Feminine

Even if the animal is male, the word 'garra' is always a feminine noun. You must use 'las' and adjectives ending in '-as'.

Garras vs. Uñas

Mistake:Using 'garras' to describe human fingernails.

Correction: Use 'uñas' for humans and small pets. Use 'garras' for predators or wild animals with dangerous hooks.

uñas

nounB1figurative
Use 'uñas' figuratively when describing someone's aggressive or sharp defense, akin to 'showing one's claws,' particularly in human interactions.

Examples

Ante la acusación, el político sacó las uñas y respondió con vehemencia.

Faced with the accusation, the politician showed his talons and responded vehemently.

Literal vs. Figurative Use

The most common mistake is using 'uñas' for the physical talons of a bird. Remember that 'garras' refers to the actual physical claws, while 'uñas' is a metaphor for aggressive behavior or defense, usually in people.

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