Inklingo

How to Say "torch" in Spanish

English → Spanish

linterna

leen-TEHR-nahlinˈteɾna

nounA1general
Use 'linterna' when referring to a portable, battery-operated flashlight, common in everyday use.
A blue and yellow flashlight lying horizontally on a surface, casting a bright circular beam of yellow light onto a dark background.

Examples

Necesito una linterna para buscar algo debajo de la cama.

I need a flashlight to look for something under the bed.

Perdí las llaves y necesito una linterna para ver en la oscuridad.

I lost the keys and I need a flashlight to see in the dark.

Asegúrate de que la linterna tenga pilas nuevas antes de ir de excursión.

Make sure the torch has new batteries before going hiking.

Gender Reminder

'Linterna' is a feminine noun, so you always use 'la' or 'una' before it: 'la linterna' (the flashlight).

Confusing with 'Lámpara'

Mistake: “Using 'lámpara' when referring specifically to a handheld flashlight.”

Correction: 'Lámpara' usually means a desk lamp or ceiling lamp. Use 'linterna' for the portable, battery-operated kind.

antorcha

an-TOR-chahanˈtoɾt͡ʃa

nounA2general
Use 'antorcha' for a stick with a flame at one end, traditionally used for light or in ceremonies.
A wooden torch with a bright orange and yellow flame at the top.

Examples

Los manifestantes llevaban antorchas iluminando la noche.

The protesters carried torches lighting up the night.

El explorador encendió una antorcha para entrar en la cueva.

The explorer lit a torch to enter the cave.

Las paredes del castillo estaban iluminadas por antorchas.

The castle walls were lit by torches.

Llevaban la antorcha en lo alto durante la procesión.

They held the torch high during the procession.

Always Feminine

This word is feminine, meaning you should always use 'la' or 'una' with it, even though it's associated with rugged things like fire or exploration.

Easy Plurals

To talk about more than one, simply add an 's' to the end: 'las antorchas'.

Flashlight vs. Torch

Mistake: “Using 'antorcha' to mean a battery-powered flashlight.”

Correction: Use 'linterna' for a flashlight and 'antorcha' for one that uses real fire.

Flashlight vs. Flaming Stick

The most common mistake is using 'antorcha' for a modern flashlight. Remember that 'linterna' is the standard word for a flashlight, while 'antorcha' refers to a flaming torch, often seen in historical or ceremonial contexts.

Related Translations

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