Inklingo

How to Say "waterfall" in Spanish

English → Spanish

salto

/sahl-toh//ˈsalto/

nounB1natural feature
Use 'salto' when referring to a waterfall as a natural feature, often encountered during outdoor activities like hiking or sightseeing, emphasizing the 'leap' or 'jump' of the water.
A cascade of white water flowing down a rocky cliff into a serene pool at the bottom, illustrating a waterfall.

Examples

Fuimos de excursión para ver el impresionante salto de agua.

We went hiking to see the impressive waterfall.

El Salto Ángel es la cascada más alta del mundo.

Angel Falls is the highest waterfall in the world.

Using the modifier

When talking about a waterfall, Spanish often uses the full phrase 'salto de agua' (literally, 'jump of water') to make the meaning clear, although 'salto' alone can sometimes be understood in context.

caída

nounB2a large cascade of water
Use 'caída' when describing a large, significant cascade of water, often a famous landmark or a powerful natural phenomenon, focusing on the 'fall' aspect.

Examples

Las cataratas del Iguazú son la caída de agua más famosa de la región.

The Iguazu Falls are the most famous waterfall in the region.

Salto vs. Caída

Learners often confuse 'salto' and 'caída' because both mean waterfall. Remember that 'salto' is more common for general natural features and hikes, while 'caída' often implies a larger, more impressive cascade, like famous falls.

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