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A2 adjective 14 دقيقة للقراءة

mate

أمثلة mate في 30 ثانية
الشرح mate in your Level:
At the A1 level, you should learn 'mate' as a simple descriptive word for colors and objects. It is the opposite of 'brillante' (shiny). You will mostly use it when shopping or describing your belongings. For example, if you are buying a notebook or a phone case, you might say it is 'azul mate' (matte blue). At this stage, don't worry about complex grammar; just remember that 'mate' usually comes after the color or the noun. It's a useful word for basic descriptions of physical items you see every day. You might also hear it when people talk about photos—'¿Fotos en mate o brillo?' (Photos in matte or gloss?). It's a very practical word to have in your basic vocabulary toolkit for everyday life in a Spanish-speaking environment.
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At the A2 level, you can start using 'mate' to describe more specific things like house paint, makeup, or car finishes. You should understand that 'mate' is an adjective that doesn't change for gender (it's the same for 'el' and 'la' words). You can use it in short sentences with the verb 'ser' like 'La pared es mate' (The wall is matte). You are likely to encounter this word in stores, especially when buying cosmetics or DIY supplies. Knowing this word helps you be more precise in your descriptions. You should also be aware that in South America, 'mate' is a very famous drink, so look at the context! If someone says 'un color mate,' they mean the finish. If they say 'beber mate,' they mean the drink.
By B1, you should be comfortable using 'mate' in more complex sentence structures and comparisons. You can use it to talk about preferences in design and aesthetics. For example, 'Prefiero el acabado mate porque es más elegante que el brillante' (I prefer the matte finish because it is more elegant than the glossy one). You should also be familiar with related terms like 'satinado' (satin) or 'semimate.' At this level, you start to see 'mate' as a stylistic choice rather than just a lack of shine. You can use it to describe textures in art or photography with more confidence. You might also notice that 'mate' is sometimes pluralized as 'mates' for plural nouns, though keeping it invariable is also common. You should be able to follow a conversation at a paint store or a beauty salon where 'mate' is a key technical term.
سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل
At the B2 level, you should understand the nuance between 'mate' and its synonyms like 'opaco' or 'deslustrado.' You can use 'mate' to describe not just physical objects but also atmosphere and light quality in a more sophisticated way. You might use it in professional contexts, such as graphic design or architecture, to specify finishes. For instance, 'Necesitamos un papel mate de alta calidad para este catálogo para evitar reflejos molestos' (We need high-quality matte paper for this catalog to avoid annoying reflections). You should be able to discuss the pros and cons of matte versus glossy finishes in various industries. Your use of 'mate' should be precise, and you should be aware of its homonyms (like 'jaque mate' in chess) to avoid any potential confusion in conversation.
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At the C1 level, 'mate' becomes part of a rich descriptive vocabulary. You can use it in literary or highly technical contexts. You might use it to describe the 'mate' quality of a landscape or the 'colores mates' of a specific artistic movement. You understand the historical and etymological roots of the word and how it relates to the idea of being 'deadened' or 'subdued.' You can navigate complex discussions about materials science or high-end fashion where 'mate' finishes are analyzed for their psychological impact or light-diffusion properties. You are also fully aware of the regional variations in how the word is used and pluralized across the Spanish-speaking world, and you can use it idiomatically in phrases like 'jaque mate' without hesitation.
سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل
At the C2 level, your mastery of 'mate' is complete. You can use it with total precision in any context, from a scientific paper on optics to a poetic description of a fog-covered harbor. You understand the subtle differences in connotation it carries in different Spanish-speaking countries. You can play with the word's multiple meanings in puns or sophisticated wordplay. You might use it to describe a 'voz mate' (a dull or muffled voice) or other metaphorical applications. You are a master of the various registers where 'mate' appears, from the technical jargon of a master painter to the marketing language of a luxury brand. Your use of the word is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker, reflecting a deep understanding of Spanish texture and visual terminology.
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أمثلة

mate في 30 ثانية

  • Mate means non-shiny or dull in finish.
  • It is commonly used for paint, makeup, and photography.
  • It is an invariable adjective in terms of gender.
  • The opposite of mate is 'brillante' (shiny).

The Spanish word mate is a versatile adjective primarily used to describe surfaces, textures, and finishes that do not reflect light. Unlike glossy or shiny surfaces, a 'mate' finish is characterized by its dullness, opacity, and lack of luster. In the modern world, this term has seen a massive surge in popularity due to trends in interior design, automotive aesthetics, and the cosmetics industry. When you speak about something being 'mate', you are describing its visual quality—specifically how it interacts with light. It is the opposite of 'brillante' (shiny) or 'reluciente' (glowing).

Visual Texture
In the context of photography, 'papel mate' refers to photo paper that does not have a reflective coating, making it ideal for viewing under bright lights without glare. This is often preferred for professional portraits or historical reproductions where detail is more important than vibrancy.

He decidido pintar las paredes de mi dormitorio con un azul mate para que la habitación se sienta más relajante.

Beyond simple household items, the word 'mate' carries a certain sophisticated connotation in contemporary Spanish. A 'color mate' is often viewed as more modern, understated, and elegant than a high-gloss alternative. This is why you will frequently hear it in high-end car dealerships or when discussing luxury electronics. The lack of reflection suggests a certain depth and purity of color that glossy finishes sometimes obscure. It is important to note that while 'mate' describes a lack of shine, it does not necessarily imply that the object is 'sucio' (dirty) or 'viejo' (old); rather, it is a deliberate stylistic choice.

Cosmetic Usage
In the world of makeup, 'labial mate' (matte lipstick) is a standard term. It describes a product that provides intense pigment without any shimmer or oily reflection, providing a velvety appearance on the lips.

Ella prefiere el maquillaje mate porque dura más tiempo y no brilla bajo las luces de la oficina.

Historically, the word derives from the idea of being 'exhausted' or 'deadened,' which explains why a color that has lost its 'life' (shine) is called mate. In technical fields like metallurgy or chemistry, 'mate' might describe a surface that has been treated to remove its natural sheen. Understanding this word allows you to navigate shopping for home goods, discussing art, or even describing the weather on a particularly flat, gray day. It is an essential term for anyone moving beyond basic color descriptions into the realm of texture and finish.

Interior Design
Architects often specify 'acabado mate' for floors to hide imperfections and footprints that would be glaringly obvious on a polished, shiny surface.

El suelo de madera mate le da un toque rústico y natural a la sala de estar.

Compré un coche con pintura gris mate porque se ve muy deportivo y elegante.

Las sombras de ojos mate son mejores para definir la cuenca del ojo sin añadir brillo innecesario.

Using the word 'mate' correctly in a sentence requires an understanding of its role as an adjective. In Spanish, adjectives typically follow the noun they describe. Because 'mate' is a relatively short and specific word, it usually appears immediately after the noun representing the object or the color. For example, instead of saying 'a matte blue car,' a Spanish speaker would say 'un coche azul mate.' Note how 'mate' modifies the color 'azul,' which in turn modifies the noun 'coche.' This layering of adjectives is a common feature of the Spanish language.

Agreement Rules
One of the most interesting aspects of 'mate' is its behavior regarding gender and number. In many dialects and formal contexts, 'mate' is treated as an invariable adjective. This means it doesn't change from 'mate' to 'mata' for feminine nouns. For instance, you say 'una pintura mate' (feminine) and 'un barniz mate' (masculine). However, when it comes to plurality, while some speakers keep it as 'mate,' others will use 'mates' (e.g., 'colores mates'). For learners, sticking with 'mate' as an invariable form is generally safe and widely accepted.

Las ventanas tienen un acabado mate para evitar que los vecinos vean hacia adentro.

When constructing sentences about preferences, 'mate' often follows verbs like 'preferir' (to prefer) or 'gustar' (to like). For example, 'Prefiero el papel mate para imprimir mis dibujos' (I prefer matte paper for printing my drawings). It is also frequently used with the verb 'ser' to describe permanent characteristics of an object. 'Esta pared es mate' (This wall is matte). If you are talking about a change in state—perhaps a shiny surface that has become dull—you might use 'quedar' or 'volverse,' although 'mate' is usually seen as an inherent property of the finish applied.

Comparative Structures
You can use 'mate' in comparisons just like any other adjective. 'Este barniz es más mate que el otro' (This varnish is more matte than the other). You can also use 'tan mate como' (as matte as) to show equality in finish.

¿Crees que el negro mate es demasiado oscuro para la cocina?

In professional settings, such as a print shop or a hardware store, you might hear 'mate' used in the imperative or as part of a request. 'Por favor, imprima estas copias en acabado mate' (Please print these copies in a matte finish). It is a precise word that helps avoid confusion between different product types. Because it is a technical term as much as a descriptive one, using it correctly shows a high level of vocabulary control and attention to detail in your Spanish communication.

Negation
To say something is not matte, you simply use 'no es mate.' However, it is more common to use the antonym 'brillante' if you want to emphasize that it has a shine. 'No quiero que el suelo sea mate; lo quiero brillante.'

El fotógrafo sugirió un marco de metal mate para no distraer la atención de la imagen.

Me gusta cómo queda el esmalte de uñas mate durante el invierno.

La pantalla de mi nueva computadora es mate, lo cual es genial para trabajar cerca de una ventana.

The word 'mate' is ubiquitous in environments where aesthetics and technical specifications meet. One of the most common places you will encounter it is in a ferretería (hardware store) or a paint shop. When you are choosing paint for a home renovation, the clerk will invariably ask, '¿Lo quiere mate, satinado o brillante?' (Do you want it matte, satin, or glossy?). In this context, 'mate' is the go-to choice for ceilings and walls with imperfections, as it hides bumps and cracks better than shiny paints which reflect light off every uneven surface.

The Beauty Industry
If you step into a Sephora or any local pharmacy in a Spanish-speaking country, 'mate' is a keyword in the cosmetics aisle. You will see it on labels for 'bases de maquillaje' (foundations) designed for oily skin, 'labiales' (lipsticks), and 'sombras de ojos' (eyeshadows). Makeup artists use 'mate' to describe a look that is sophisticated and 'limpio' (clean), devoid of the 'brillo' (shine) that can sometimes look greasy on camera.

En la tienda de cosméticos, la vendedora me recomendó un polvo mate para controlar la grasa de la cara.

In the world of technology and electronics, 'mate' is a crucial term for screens. When buying a laptop or a monitor, you might prefer a 'pantalla mate' (matte screen) if you work in a brightly lit office or outdoors. Unlike 'pantallas brillantes' (glossy screens), matte screens have an anti-glare coating that diffuses light. This makes 'mate' a word associated with productivity and eye comfort. Similarly, in photography and printing services, you will be asked for your preference between 'brillo' and 'mate' for your physical prints. 'Mate' is the standard choice for professional portfolios and wedding albums because it doesn't pick up fingerprints as easily.

Automotive Trends
Luxury cars and high-end motorcycles often feature 'pintura mate.' This finish, particularly in 'negro mate' (matte black), has become a symbol of modern luxury and stealth. You will hear car enthusiasts discussing the 'acabado mate' of a new sports car model in magazines and YouTube reviews.

Ese deportivo con acabado gris mate es el coche más bonito que he visto en mi vida.

Finally, in the arts and crafts world, 'mate' is used to describe types of 'barniz' (varnish) or 'fijador' (fixative). Artists use a 'fijador mate' to protect charcoal or pastel drawings without changing the appearance of the medium. In museums, you might see 'vidrio mate' used in frames to prevent the gallery lights from reflecting off the glass and obscuring the artwork. Everywhere you look, from the phone in your hand to the walls of the room you are in, 'mate' is a word that helps define the visual world around us.

Graphic Design
When designers talk about 'colores mate,' they are often referring to the CMYK printing process where colors can appear flatter than they do on a digital RGB screen.

El diseñador eligió un papel mate de alto gramaje para las tarjetas de visita de la empresa.

El acabado mate de la cerámica le da un aspecto muy artesanal y único.

¿Prefieres las fotos de la boda en mate o con brillo?

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using 'mate' in Spanish is failing to recognize its multiple homonyms. Because 'mate' can mean a drink, a chess move (jaque mate), or a form of the verb 'matar' (to kill), beginners often get confused. However, as an adjective meaning 'matte,' it is almost always followed by a noun or preceded by the verb 'ser.' A common error is trying to pluralize it as 'matos' or 'matas' to match gender; remember that 'mate' is gender-neutral. It remains 'mate' for both 'el papel' and 'la pintura.'

Adjective Agreement
While 'mate' is usually invariable for gender, the plural form 'mates' is sometimes debated. Some learners mistakenly use 'mate' for plural nouns (e.g., 'los colores mate'). While this is increasingly common in casual speech, in formal writing or exams, you should check if 'mates' is expected. However, never use 'mata' as an adjective; 'la pared mata' would mean 'the wall kills'!

Incorrecto: Quiero una pintura mata para mi cuarto.
Correcto: Quiero una pintura mate para mi cuarto.

Another mistake involves the confusion between 'mate' and 'opaco.' While they are synonyms, 'opaco' (opaque) specifically refers to the inability of light to pass through an object, whereas 'mate' refers to the surface finish not being shiny. A piece of wood is inherently opaque, but its finish can be either matte or glossy. Using 'opaco' when you mean 'mate' in a hardware store might lead the clerk to think you are talking about the transparency of the paint rather than its sheen.

False Friends and Context
English speakers might try to say 'mat' (like a rug) using 'mate.' In Spanish, a rug or floor mat is 'una alfombra' or 'un felpudo.' Using 'mate' here would be confusing. Similarly, don't confuse 'mate' with 'meta' (goal). These small vowel changes completely alter the meaning of the sentence.

Incorrecto: El coche tiene un color brillante mate.
Correcto: El coche tiene un acabado mate.

Lastly, be careful with pronunciation. The 'e' at the end of 'mate' must be pronounced clearly as an 'eh' sound (like in 'met'). English speakers often drop the final vowel or turn it into a 'y' sound (like 'matey'). In Spanish, every vowel counts. If you say 'mat' without the 'e', people won't understand you. If you say 'may-t', it sounds like the English word for a friend. Focus on the crisp 'ma-te' pronunciation to ensure you are talking about that stylish, non-shiny finish you desire.

Confusion with 'Matar'
Because 'mate' is the first-person singular present subjunctive and the third-person singular imperative of 'matar,' avoid using it in isolation without a noun. Saying '¡Mate!' in a store could be interpreted as 'Kill (it)!' instead of 'Matte!'

Es importante decir 'un color mate' para que no se confunda con el verbo 'matar'.

No confundas el sustantivo 'el mate' (la infusión) con el adjetivo 'mate' (sin brillo).

While 'mate' is the most common word for a non-shiny finish, Spanish offers several other terms that can provide more nuance depending on the context. Understanding these alternatives will help you sound more like a native speaker and allow you to describe textures with greater precision. Whether you are talking about a flat paint, a foggy window, or a dull personality, there is a word for every situation.

Opaco vs. Mate
'Opaco' is the most direct synonym for 'mate.' However, 'opaco' often carries a slightly more negative connotation, implying something that is dim, lacklustre, or lacking in light. While 'mate' is a stylistic choice (e.g., 'un coche mate'), 'opaco' might describe a diamond that has lost its sparkle or a cloudy day. In technical terms, 'opaco' also means the opposite of 'transparente.'

La ventana está opaca por la humedad, no se ve nada hacia afuera.

Another useful word is 'deslustrado.' This comes from 'lustre' (shine/gloss) and the prefix 'des-' (removal). It is used to describe something that used to be shiny but has become dull over time due to wear, age, or lack of cleaning. If your silver cutlery is 'deslustrado,' it needs a good polish. In contrast, something that is 'mate' was usually designed to be that way from the start. You might also encounter 'amortiguado,' which literally means 'muffled' or 'cushioned,' but in the context of color, it refers to 'muted' tones that are not bright or vibrant.

Satinado and Semimate
Between the extremes of 'brillante' and 'mate,' you have 'satinado' (satin) and 'semimate' (semi-matte). 'Satinado' has a soft, pearl-like sheen, while 'semimate' is just a step above 'mate' in terms of reflectivity. These terms are essential when buying paint or high-quality paper.

Si el mate te parece muy soso, podrías probar un acabado satinado.

In literary or poetic contexts, you might find the word 'velado.' This means 'veiled' or 'blurred.' It describes a visual quality where things are not clear or bright, as if seen through a thin fabric. While not a direct synonym for a paint finish, it captures the same spirit of diffused light. Similarly, 'empañado' is used specifically for glass or mirrors that have become 'matte' due to steam or breath. Knowing these distinctions allows you to choose the exact right word for the phenomenon you are observing.

Comparison Table
- Mate: Deliberately non-shiny (modern, elegant).
- Opaco: Lacking light or transparency (technical).
- Deslustrado: Lost its shine (worn out).
- Apagado: Low intensity (muted color).

El artista usó colores apagados y un barniz mate para crear una atmósfera melancólica.

Este cristal esmerilado tiene un efecto mate que protege nuestra privacidad.

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أمثلة حسب المستوى

1

Mi teléfono es negro mate.

My phone is matte black.

The adjective 'mate' follows the color 'negro'.

2

Quiero papel mate para mis fotos.

I want matte paper for my photos.

'Mate' modifies the noun 'papel'.

3

La mesa es de color gris mate.

The table is matte gray in color.

Use of 'de color' + [color] + 'mate'.

4

Ella tiene un labial mate.

She has a matte lipstick.

'Labial' is the noun for lipstick.

5

Este libro tiene una portada mate.

This book has a matte cover.

'Portada' is feminine, but 'mate' remains the same.

6

Me gusta el azul mate.

I like matte blue.

'Mate' functions here as part of a compound color name.

7

¿Es mate o brillante?

Is it matte or shiny?

A common question for comparing finishes.

8

El coche es blanco mate.

The car is matte white.

Adjectives follow the noun 'coche' and the color 'blanco'.

1

Prefiero la pintura mate para el salón.

I prefer matte paint for the living room.

'Pintura' is feminine, 'mate' is invariable.

2

Compré un casco de moto verde mate.

I bought a matte green motorcycle helmet.

Compound adjective 'verde mate' modifying 'casco'.

3

Las fotos mate no tienen reflejos.

Matte photos don't have reflections.

Plural noun 'fotos' used with 'mate' (invariable here).

4

Este esmalte de uñas es mate.

This nail polish is matte.

'Esmalte de uñas' is the full term for nail polish.

5

La pantalla de mi laptop es mate.

My laptop screen is matte.

'Pantalla' is feminine.

6

No me gusta el maquillaje brillante, prefiero el mate.

I don't like shiny makeup, I prefer matte.

'El mate' here acts as a noun referring to the finish.

7

Las paredes mate esconden los errores.

Matte walls hide mistakes.

Plural 'paredes' with 'mate'.

8

¿Tienes sombras de ojos mate?

Do you have matte eyeshadows?

Plural 'sombras' used with 'mate'.

1

El acabado mate le da un toque moderno al mueble.

The matte finish gives a modern touch to the furniture.

'Acabado mate' is a very common phrase.

2

Si usas papel mate, los colores se ven más suaves.

If you use matte paper, the colors look softer.

Conditional sentence using 'si'.

3

Ese coche negro mate es muy difícil de limpiar.

That matte black car is very difficult to clean.

'Difícil de' + infinitive construction.

4

Para esta habitación, un tono mate sería ideal.

For this room, a matte tone would be ideal.

Use of the conditional 'sería'.

5

El barniz mate protege la madera sin brillar.

The matte varnish protects the wood without shining.

'Sin' + gerund (brillar) equivalent in English.

6

Muchas marcas de lujo eligen envases mate.

Many luxury brands choose matte packaging.

'Envases' (containers/packaging) is plural.

7

La luz mate del atardecer era perfecta para la foto.

The dull light of the sunset was perfect for the photo.

Metaphorical use of 'mate' for light.

8

Prefiero los marcos mate para que no distraigan.

I prefer matte frames so they don't distract.

Subjunctive 'distraigan' after 'para que'.

1

El diseño minimalista suele utilizar superficies mate.

Minimalist design usually uses matte surfaces.

'Suele' + infinitive (usually does something).

2

Al aplicar la segunda capa, el color quedará totalmente mate.

Upon applying the second coat, the color will remain totally matte.

Future tense 'quedará' used to describe a result.

3

El vidrio mate es excelente para mantener la privacidad.

Matte glass is excellent for maintaining privacy.

'Vidrio mate' is the term for frosted glass.

4

A diferencia del brillo, el mate no resalta las imperfecciones.

Unlike gloss, matte does not highlight imperfections.

'A diferencia de' (unlike/as opposed to).

5

Este tipo de plástico mate es muy agradable al tacto.

This type of matte plastic is very pleasant to the touch.

'Agradable al tacto' (pleasant to the touch).

6

Se recomienda un acabado mate para evitar la fatiga visual.

A matte finish is recommended to avoid eye strain.

Passive 'se' construction (se recomienda).

7

La cerámica mate tiene una estética más orgánica.

Matte ceramics have a more organic aesthetic.

'Estética' is a feminine noun.

8

El fotógrafo insistió en usar un fondo negro mate.

The photographer insisted on using a matte black background.

'Insistir en' + infinitive.

1

La sobriedad del acabado mate acentúa la elegancia del edificio.

The sobriety of the matte finish accentuates the elegance of the building.

High-level vocabulary like 'sobriedad' and 'acentúa'.

2

Buscamos una textura mate que evoque la naturalidad de la piedra.

We are looking for a matte texture that evokes the naturalness of stone.

Subjunctive 'evoque' in a relative clause of purpose.

3

El uso de barnices mate es tendencia en la restauración de muebles antiguos.

The use of matte varnishes is a trend in the restoration of antique furniture.

'Ser tendencia' (to be a trend).

4

A pesar de ser mate, este material posee una profundidad lumínica asombrosa.

Despite being matte, this material possesses an amazing light depth.

'A pesar de' + infinitive.

5

El realismo de la obra se ve reforzado por el uso de pigmentos mate.

The realism of the work is reinforced by the use of matte pigments.

Passive voice 'se ve reforzado'.

6

La pantalla cuenta con un recubrimiento mate antirreflectante de última generación.

The screen features a latest-generation anti-reflective matte coating.

'Cuenta con' (features/has).

7

Optaron por una paleta de colores mates para no saturar el espacio visual.

They opted for a palette of matte colors so as not to saturate the visual space.

Use of plural 'mates' in a formal context.

8

La luz mate que filtraba la niebla creaba una atmósfera irreal.

The dull light filtering through the fog created an ethereal atmosphere.

Metaphorical/literary use of 'mate'.

1

La dicotomía entre el brillo especular y el acabado mate es fundamental en la óptica.

The dichotomy between specular gloss and matte finish is fundamental in optics.

Highly technical vocabulary ('dicotomía', 'especular').

2

El artista logra una pátina mate que simula el paso inexorable del tiempo.

The artist achieves a matte patina that simulates the inexorable passage of time.

Sophisticated verbs ('logra', 'simula') and adjectives ('inexorable').

3

Se aprecia una transición sutil desde el satinado hasta el mate más absoluto.

A subtle transition from satin to the most absolute matte is appreciated.

Impersonal 'se' construction.

4

La elección de un soporte mate responde a criterios estrictamente estéticos y funcionales.

The choice of a matte support responds to strictly aesthetic and functional criteria.

'Responde a' (responds to/is due to).

5

Dicha superficie mate absorbe la luz de manera que el objeto parece carecer de volumen.

Said matte surface absorbs light such that the object seems to lack volume.

'Dicha' (said/aforementioned) and 'carecer de' (to lack).

6

La porosidad del material es la que le confiere ese aspecto mate tan característico.

The porosity of the material is what gives it that so characteristic matte appearance.

'Conferir' (to give/bestow).

7

En el post-procesado, se aplicó un filtro para obtener un look mate cinematográfico.

In post-processing, a filter was applied to obtain a cinematic matte look.

Technical jargon of the film industry.

8

La neutralidad cromática se ve potenciada por la ausencia de reflejos en el acabado mate.

Chromatic neutrality is enhanced by the absence of reflections in the matte finish.

Abstract noun phrases ('neutralidad cromática').

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