In A1, 'copo' is primarily encountered as part of the common phrase 'copo de nieve' (snowflake). Learners will recognize it as a small, white thing that falls from the sky in winter. Simple sentences focusing on seeing snowflakes are appropriate. The concept of 'copo' as a general flake is beyond A1.
At the A2 level, learners can expand their understanding to include the idea of 'copos' (plural) falling and possibly the common food item 'copos de maíz' (cornflakes). They can form simple sentences describing seeing snowflakes or eating cereal. Differentiating 'copo' from 'nieve' starts to become relevant.
For B1 learners, the distinction between 'copo' (snowflake) and 'nieve' (snow) should be clear. They can use 'copo' in more descriptive sentences about winter weather and understand its use in common food contexts like 'copos de avena' (oat flakes). The figurative use of 'copo' for small groups might be introduced but not expected for active use.
B2 learners should have a solid grasp of all common uses of 'copo', including its primary meaning of snowflake, its application to various flake-like materials (like cereals, cotton), and potentially some more nuanced or figurative uses. They can confidently differentiate it from similar words and use it in varied sentence structures.
At the C1 level, learners are expected to understand and potentially use 'copo' in more sophisticated contexts, including literary or metaphorical applications. They can appreciate the subtle connotations of fragility and individuality associated with the word. They should also be able to explain the etymological connection between the word and its various meanings.
C2 learners possess a mastery of 'copo', understanding its full semantic range and idiomatic usage. They can recognize its presence in diverse registers, from everyday conversation to specialized or artistic language, and can employ it with precision and naturalness.

copo 30秒で

  • Copo primarily means snowflake.
  • It can also mean a light, fluffy flake of material (cotton, cereal).
  • Used for individual snowflakes and sometimes in food names (cornflakes).
  • Context is key to understanding its meaning.
Primary Meaning
A small, light piece of snow that falls from the sky, especially when it is cold.
Secondary Meaning
A light, fluffy piece of material, such as cotton or paper.
Figurative Use
Can refer to a small, isolated group or a single, distinct unit of something.

Me encanta ver caer cada copo de nieve en invierno.

El algodón se desprendió en pequeños copos.

Un copo de rebeldes se separó del grupo principal.

Describing Snowfall
The most straightforward use of 'copo' is to refer to individual snowflakes. You'll hear it when describing the visual aspect of snow falling or accumulating. It emphasizes the delicate nature of each piece of snow.

Cada copo de nieve tenía una forma única.

Referring to Fluffy Materials
Beyond snow, 'copo' can describe any light, fluffy cluster of material. Think of cotton balls, dandelion seeds, or even certain types of food like shredded cheese or cooked cereal that forms a fluffy mass.

Se le formó un copo de algodón en el ojo.

Figurative and Abstract Uses
In more abstract contexts, 'copo' can denote a small, distinct group or an isolated entity. This usage is less common but can appear in literature or more nuanced discussions.

El grupo se dividió en varios copos de pensamiento.

Winter Weather Reports
Meteorologists and news anchors will frequently use 'copo' when describing snowfall. Phrases like 'está cayendo un copo de nieve' (a snowflake is falling) or 'se esperan copos de nieve' (snowflakes are expected) are common during winter months.

El pronóstico indica que mañana caerá el primer copo de nieve de la temporada.

Food and Breakfast Cereals
In many Spanish-speaking countries, breakfast cereals that are shaped like flakes are called 'copos'. The most famous example is 'copos de maíz', which translates to cornflakes. You'll see this on packaging and in grocery stores.

Para desayunar, prefiero un tazón de copos de avena.

Describing Textures
When discussing crafts, materials, or even certain food preparations, people might use 'copo' to describe a fluffy or wispy texture. This could be anything from a cotton ball used for art to a light dusting of powdered sugar.

La nube parecía un gran copo de algodón en el cielo azul.

Literature and Poetry
Writers often employ 'copo' to evoke imagery of winter, purity, or fragility. You might find it in descriptive passages of novels or in the verses of poems.

La primera nevada cubrió el paisaje con un manto de copos blancos.

Confusing with 'Nieve' (Snow)
Learners might sometimes use 'copo' when they simply mean 'snow' in general. While 'copo' refers to an individual piece of snow (a snowflake), 'nieve' refers to snow as a substance or phenomenon. For instance, you wouldn't say 'Me gusta el copo' to mean 'I like snow'; you would say 'Me gusta la nieve'.

Incorrecto: Me encanta el copo.

Correcto: Me encanta la nieve.

Overusing the Figurative Meaning
While 'copo' can be used figuratively for small groups, it's not as common as its literal meaning. Learners might try to force this meaning where it doesn't quite fit, leading to awkward phrasing. Stick to the literal meanings (snowflake, fluffy material) unless you are very confident in the context.

Incorrecto: Vimos un copo de pájaros en el árbol.

Mejor: Vimos un grupo/una bandada de pájaros en el árbol.

Incorrect Pluralization
Like most Spanish nouns ending in '-o', the plural form is 'copos'. While this is a relatively simple rule, beginners might forget to change the singular 'copo' to the plural 'copos' when referring to multiple snowflakes or flakes.

Incorrecto: Había muchos copo en el suelo.

Correcto: Había muchos copos en el suelo.

Nieve (Snow)
'Nieve' is the general term for snow, referring to the substance itself, the weather phenomenon, or snowfall in accumulation. 'Copo' is a single, individual piece of snow (a snowflake). Think of it as 'snow' vs. 'a snowflake'.
Example: 'La nieve cubría el paisaje.' (The snow covered the landscape.) vs. 'Cada copo de nieve es único.' (Each snowflake is unique.)
Escama (Scale, Flake)
'Escama' is a more general term for a flake or scale, often used for things like fish scales, dandruff, or certain types of cereal flakes (though 'copos' is more common for breakfast cereals). It doesn't typically carry the same delicate, light connotation as 'copo' when referring to snow.
Example: 'Las escamas del pescado brillaban al sol.' (The fish scales shone in the sun.) 'Copo' is almost exclusively used for snowflakes or light, fluffy materials.
Grano (Grain)
'Grano' refers to a grain, seed, or a small particle. While a snowflake is small, it's not typically described as a 'grano' because a grano implies a more solid, granular structure, whereas a copo is delicate and crystalline.
Example: 'Un grano de arroz.' (A grain of rice.) This is very different from the visual of a 'copo de nieve'.
Pelusa (Fuzz, Lint)
'Pelusa' refers to fine, fluffy fibers, lint, or fuzz. While a 'copo' of cotton might be similar in texture, 'pelusa' is specifically about loose fibers. A snowflake is a structured crystal, not just random fibers.
Example: 'Había pelusa en el bolsillo.' (There was lint in the pocket.)
Brizna (Wisp, Strand)
'Brizna' means a wisp or a fine strand, often used for things like a wisp of hair or a strand of grass. It doesn't convey the same sense of a distinct, fluffy piece as 'copo'.
Example: 'Una brizna de hierba.' (A blade of grass.)

How Formal Is It?

豆知識

The connection between 'cup' and 'flake' might seem unusual, but it's thought to relate to the small, hollowed-out shape that early flakes or pieces of material might have had, or perhaps the way they collected. The evolution is gradual, moving from a container to a small, distinct unit.

発音ガイド

UK /ˈkɒpoʊ/
US /ˈkoʊpoʊ/
The stress is on the first syllable: CO-po.
韻が合う語
topo lobo sapo mapo acopo escopo tropo hipo
よくある間違い
  • Pronouncing the final 'o' as a strong 'oh' sound instead of a shorter, pure vowel (especially in UK English).
  • Adding an 'h' sound before the 'o' (co-H-po).
  • Incorrect stress placement, such as on the second syllable.

難易度

読解 3/5

The word 'copo' itself is simple, but understanding its various applications (snowflake, cereal, figurative) requires context. Reading comprehension will depend on the surrounding vocabulary and sentence structure. Texts discussing weather, food, or abstract concepts might be challenging if 'copo' is used in less common ways.

ライティング 3/5

Using 'copo' correctly, especially differentiating between singular/plural and its various meanings, requires practice. Beginners might overuse 'nieve' or misuse 'copo'. Mastering its idiomatic and figurative uses adds further complexity.

スピーキング 3/5

Pronunciation is relatively straightforward. The main challenge in speaking is recalling the correct context for 'copo' (snowflake vs. cereal vs. figurative) and using it naturally. Overcoming the potential negative connotation of the idiom 'ser un copo de nieve' is also important.

リスニング 3/5

Recognizing 'copo' in speech is generally easy due to its distinct sound. Understanding its meaning relies heavily on the surrounding conversation and context. Distinguishing between literal and figurative uses can be challenging without clear contextual clues.

次に学ぶべきこと

前提知識

nieve blanco caer pequeño forma

次に学ぶ

cristalino efímero algodón cereal textura

上級

fragilidad singularidad transitorio aglomeración partícula

知っておくべき文法

Pluralization of nouns ending in -o

The noun 'copo' ends in '-o', so its plural form is 'copos'.

Agreement of adjectives with nouns

If 'copo' is singular masculine, adjectives describing it must also be singular masculine (e.g., 'un copo blanco'). If plural, they must be plural masculine (e.g., 'los copos blancos').

Use of 'de' for possession or composition

'Copo de nieve' (flake of snow), 'copos de maíz' (flakes of corn).

Prepositions with 'copo'

'Un copo en mi mano' (a flake on my hand), 'caer de un copo' (to fall from a flake - less common).

Idiomatic expressions

Understanding that 'ser un copo de nieve' is figurative and doesn't literally mean being a snowflake.

レベル別の例文

1

Veo un copo de nieve.

I see a snowflake.

Singular noun 'copo' used with indefinite article 'un'.

2

El copo es blanco.

The snowflake is white.

Singular noun 'copo' agrees with adjective 'blanco'.

3

Cae un copo.

A flake falls.

Verb 'caer' (to fall) used with singular noun 'copo'.

4

Me gusta el copo.

I like the snowflake.

Definite article 'el' used with singular noun 'copo'.

5

Un copo en mi mano.

A flake on my hand.

Preposition 'en' (on) used with singular noun 'copo'.

6

Qué bonito copo.

What a pretty snowflake.

Exclamatory phrase using 'qué' with adjective and singular noun.

7

El copo es frío.

The snowflake is cold.

Adjective 'frío' agrees with singular noun 'copo'.

8

Mira el copo.

Look at the snowflake.

Imperative verb 'mirar' (to look) used with definite article and singular noun.

1

Cayeron muchos copos de nieve.

Many snowflakes fell.

Plural noun 'copos' used with quantifier 'muchos'.

2

Me gustan los copos de algodón.

I like cotton flakes/tufts.

Plural noun 'copos' used with noun phrase 'de algodón'.

3

¿Quieres copos de maíz para desayunar?

Do you want cornflakes for breakfast?

Plural noun 'copos' used in a question about food.

4

El viento movía los copos.

The wind moved the flakes.

Plural noun 'copos' as the direct object of the verb 'mover'.

5

Cada copo es diferente.

Each snowflake is different.

Distributive adjective 'cada' used with singular noun 'copo'.

6

Los copos formaron una capa.

The flakes formed a layer.

Plural noun 'copos' as the subject of the verb 'formar'.

7

Prefiero los copos de avena.

I prefer oat flakes.

Plural noun 'copos' used with noun phrase 'de avena'.

8

Observamos los delicados copos.

We observed the delicate flakes.

Plural noun 'copos' modified by adjective 'delicados'.

1

La nevada fue intensa, con copos grandes y esponjosos.

The snowfall was intense, with large and fluffy snowflakes.

Descriptive adjectives 'grandes' and 'esponjosos' modifying plural noun 'copos'.

2

Utilizó copos de algodón para limpiar la herida.

She used cotton balls/tufts to clean the wound.

'Copos de algodón' used to describe a material for a specific purpose.

3

En el paquete ponía 'copos integrales'.

The package said 'whole grain flakes'.

'Copos' used in the context of food labeling, referring to cereal flakes.

4

Un pequeño copo de rebeldes se separó del grupo principal.

A small cluster of rebels separated from the main group.

Figurative use of 'copo' to mean a small, distinct group.

5

El aire estaba lleno de diminutos copos de polen.

The air was full of tiny flakes of pollen.

'Copos' used to describe small particles of pollen.

6

La suavidad de los copos de lana era sorprendente.

The softness of the wool flakes/tufts was surprising.

'Copos de lana' referring to fluffy wool material.

7

Se formó un copo de espuma en la taza de café.

A foam flake/dollop formed on the coffee cup.

'Copo de espuma' referring to a small amount of foam.

8

Cada copo de nieve que caía parecía una joya efímera.

Each falling snowflake seemed like an ephemeral jewel.

Metaphorical description using 'copo de nieve'.

1

La textura del algodón orgánico se vende en grandes copos para manualidades.

The texture of organic cotton is sold in large tufts for crafts.

'Copos' used for craft materials, implying a fluffy, loose form.

2

Los 'copos de maíz' son un desayuno popular en muchas culturas.

'Cornflakes' are a popular breakfast in many cultures.

Common idiomatic phrase 'copos de maíz' referring to a specific food product.

3

En la novela, el autor describe a un solitario copo de nieve que anhela derretirse.

In the novel, the author describes a solitary snowflake that longs to melt.

Personification of a 'copo de nieve' in a literary context.

4

La erupción volcánica liberó enormes copos de ceniza.

The volcanic eruption released huge flakes of ash.

'Copos' used to describe large formations of volcanic ash.

5

Se dice que cada copo de nieve es único, un testimonio de la complejidad de la naturaleza.

It is said that each snowflake is unique, a testament to nature's complexity.

Philosophical statement about the uniqueness of snowflakes ('copo de nieve').

6

El término 'copo' también se utiliza para describir fragmentos ligeros y dispersos de otros materiales.

The term 'copo' is also used to describe light and scattered fragments of other materials.

Explanation of the broader application of the word 'copo'.

7

A pesar de la lluvia, cayeron algunos copos de nieve al final de la tarde.

Despite the rain, a few snowflakes fell late in the afternoon.

Describing a rare weather phenomenon involving snowflakes ('copos de nieve') during rain.

8

El arte conceptual a menudo juega con la idea de un 'copo' como una unidad individual y frágil.

Conceptual art often plays with the idea of a 'flake' as an individual and fragile unit.

'Copo' used in an art criticism context, emphasizing its symbolic meaning.

1

La fragilidad inherente a cada copo de nieve se convierte en una metáfora de la transitoriedad de la vida.

The inherent fragility of each snowflake becomes a metaphor for the transience of life.

Sophisticated metaphorical use of 'copo de nieve' linked to abstract concepts.

2

En la repostería, los 'copos de merengue' aportan una textura etérea y un dulzor delicado.

In pastry, 'meringue flakes' provide an ethereal texture and delicate sweetness.

'Copos de merengue' used in a culinary context, highlighting specific texture and taste.

3

El historiador señaló que el movimiento se fragmentó en varios 'copos' ideológicos, perdiendo su fuerza unificada.

The historian noted that the movement fragmented into several ideological 'flakes', losing its unified strength.

Advanced figurative use of 'copos' to describe ideological fragmentation.

4

La tecnología de nanofibras busca replicar la estructura cristalina de un copo de nieve para nuevas aplicaciones.

Nanofiber technology seeks to replicate the crystalline structure of a snowflake for new applications.

'Copo de nieve' used as a scientific model for advanced material science.

5

La narrativa del autor se desplegaba como un copo de nieve, cada detalle ramificándose sutilmente del núcleo principal.

The author's narrative unfolded like a snowflake, each detail subtly branching from the main core.

Literary comparison of narrative structure to a snowflake's complexity.

6

A pesar de su apariencia liviana, el 'copo' de algodón industrial tiene una resistencia sorprendente.

Despite its light appearance, the industrial cotton 'flake' has surprising strength.

Juxtaposition of 'copo' (lightness) with strength in an industrial context.

7

El crítico de arte analizó cómo el artista utilizaba la imagen del copo para simbolizar la individualidad efímera en la sociedad moderna.

The art critic analyzed how the artist used the image of the flake to symbolize ephemeral individuality in modern society.

Art criticism dissecting the symbolic meaning of 'copo'.

8

Se debatía si un copo de nieve realmente poseía una 'forma' o si era simplemente una manifestación aleatoria de las fuerzas físicas.

It was debated whether a snowflake truly possessed a 'form' or if it was merely a random manifestation of physical forces.

Philosophical or scientific debate about the nature of a snowflake's structure ('copo de nieve').

1

La efímera belleza de un copo de nieve, tan singular y a la vez tan representativa de la fugacidad de la existencia, ha sido musa de poetas y científicos por igual.

The ephemeral beauty of a snowflake, so singular yet so representative of the transience of existence, has been a muse for poets and scientists alike.

Highly sophisticated and evocative use of 'copo de nieve' with complex philosophical undertones.

2

El panadero artesano lograba crear 'copos' de masa hojaldrada tan ligeros que parecían disolverse en el aire.

The artisan baker managed to create 'flakes' of puff pastry so light they seemed to dissolve in the air.

'Copos' used for a highly refined culinary creation, emphasizing extreme lightness and texture.

3

El analista político advirtió sobre la tendencia de los movimientos sociales a disgregarse en 'copos' de activismo fragmentado, perdiendo el impulso colectivo.

The political analyst warned about the tendency of social movements to disintegrate into 'flakes' of fragmented activism, losing collective momentum.

Advanced figurative use of 'copos' in political analysis to describe fragmentation.

4

La investigación en criocristalografía explora la génesis y la diversidad estructural de cada copo de nieve, buscando patrones universales en su aparente aleatoriedad.

Research in cryocrystallography explores the genesis and structural diversity of each snowflake, seeking universal patterns in its apparent randomness.

'Copo de nieve' used in a highly specialized scientific context (cryocrystallography).

5

La obra literaria, construida a modo de un intrincado copo de nieve, invitaba al lector a seguir sus ramificaciones hasta desentrañar la compleja red de significados.

The literary work, constructed like an intricate snowflake, invited the reader to follow its ramifications to unravel the complex web of meanings.

Complex literary metaphor comparing a literary work's structure to a snowflake.

6

El proceso de cardado transforma la lana bruta en suaves 'copos', listos para ser hilados en hilos de excepcional finura.

The carding process transforms raw wool into soft 'tufts', ready to be spun into exceptionally fine threads.

'Copos' used in the technical language of textile production.

7

La contemplación de un copo de nieve bajo el microscopio revela un microcosmos de orden matemático y belleza fractal, desafiando la noción de simple aleatoriedad.

Contemplating a snowflake under a microscope reveals a microcosm of mathematical order and fractal beauty, challenging the notion of simple randomness.

Deep appreciation of the scientific and aesthetic complexity of a snowflake ('copo de nieve').

8

La filosofía existencialista a menudo se ha valido de la imagen del 'copo' para ilustrar la condición humana de ser a la vez único y efímero, suspendido en un vasto e indiferente universo.

Existentialist philosophy has often used the image of the 'flake' to illustrate the human condition of being both unique and ephemeral, suspended in a vast and indifferent universe.

'Copo' used in a philosophical context to symbolize the human condition.

よく使う組み合わせ

copo de nieve
copos de maíz
copos de algodón
copos de avena
caer copos
un copo de algo
pequeño copo
gran copo
forma de copo
delicado copo

よく使うフレーズ

copo de nieve

— This is the most common and direct translation for 'snowflake'. It refers to a single, individual crystal of snow.

Mira, ¡un copo de nieve perfecto en mi guante!

copos de maíz

— This phrase literally means 'corn flakes' and refers to the popular breakfast cereal.

Para un desayuno rápido, siempre tengo copos de maíz a mano.

copos de avena

— This refers to 'oat flakes' or rolled oats, commonly used for making oatmeal.

Los copos de avena son una excelente fuente de fibra.

un copo de algo

— Used more generally to describe a small, fluffy piece or dollop of something, like foam or cotton.

Se formó un copo de espuma en la cerveza.

caen copos

— This phrase describes the action of snowflakes falling from the sky.

Hoy están cayendo copos por todas partes.

forma de copo

— Describes something that has the shape of a flake or a snowflake.

La decoración del árbol tenía forma de copo.

copos de algodón

— Refers to cotton balls or tufts of cotton.

Usa estos copos de algodón para aplicar el tónico.

delicado copo

— Emphasizes the fragile and fine nature of a snowflake or similar flake.

Cada delicado copo de nieve se derretía al contacto.

primer copo

— Refers to the very first snowflake of the season, often a notable event.

¡El primer copo! Significa que el invierno está llegando.

gran copo

— Describes a larger than usual snowflake or flake.

Un gran copo de nieve, casi del tamaño de una moneda, aterrizó en mi ventana.

よく混同される語

copo vs nieve

'Nieve' is the general term for snow, while 'copo' is a single snowflake. You wouldn't say 'Me gusta el copo' to mean 'I like snow'; you'd say 'Me gusta la nieve'.

copo vs escama

'Escama' refers to a scale (like fish scales) or a flake, but 'copo' is specifically used for snowflakes and certain fluffy materials like cereal flakes.

copo vs grano

'Grano' means grain or a small particle. It's solid and granular, unlike the light, often crystalline structure of a 'copo'.

慣用句と表現

"ser un copo de nieve"

— To be extremely delicate, sensitive, or easily offended. Similar to the English 'snowflake' in its negative connotation of being overly sensitive.

No le digas nada, es un copo de nieve y se ofende por todo.

informal, sometimes derogatory
"deshacerse como un copo de nieve"

— To disappear quickly, melt away, or fall apart easily, often implying a lack of substance or resilience.

Sus promesas se deshicieron como un copo de nieve ante la primera dificultad.

figurative, descriptive
"un copo en la tormenta"

— Represents something very small, insignificant, or easily lost amidst a larger, chaotic situation. Similar to 'a drop in the ocean'.

En medio de la crisis económica, su pequeño negocio era solo un copo en la tormenta.

figurative, descriptive
"tener forma de copo"

— Literally means 'to have the shape of a flake'. Can be used descriptively for food or crafts.

Las galletas de jengibre tenían forma de copo de nieve.

descriptive
"un copo de espuma"

— A dollop or small puff of foam, often seen on drinks like coffee or beer.

La cerveza tenía un copo de espuma perfecto.

culinary, descriptive
"ser tan único como un copo de nieve"

— To be completely unique and individual, like the famous saying about snowflakes.

Cada estudiante es tan único como un copo de nieve, con sus propias fortalezas.

figurative, positive
"un copo de rebeldes"

— A small, distinct group that has separated from a larger one, often with a specific ideology or purpose.

Un copo de rebeldes decidió formar su propio partido político.

figurative, descriptive
"despedazar en copos"

— To break apart into small, fluffy pieces.

El papel viejo se despedazaba en copos al tocarlo.

descriptive
"un copo de algodón"

— Specifically refers to a cotton ball or a tuft of cotton.

Necesito un copo de algodón para quitarme el maquillaje.

practical, everyday
"con la blancura de un copo"

— Describes something as being as white as a snowflake, emphasizing purity and brightness.

Su vestido era con la blancura de un copo recién caído.

poetic, descriptive

間違えやすい

copo vs nieve

Both relate to winter precipitation.

'Nieve' refers to snow as a substance or phenomenon (e.g., 'la nieve es blanca', 'nieva mucho'). 'Copo' refers to an individual piece of snow (a snowflake, e.g., 'un copo de nieve'). You see 'nieve' covering the ground, but you catch 'un copo' on your glove.

La nieve cubría el suelo, y cada copo de nieve era único.

copo vs escama

Both can refer to 'flakes'.

'Escama' is typically used for scales (fish, dandruff) or certain dry, thin flakes. 'Copo' is used for delicate, light, often fluffy flakes like snowflakes or breakfast cereals. Think of fish scales vs. a snowflake.

Las escamas de la serpiente brillaban bajo el sol, mientras que un copo de nieve se derretía en mi mano.

copo vs grumo

Both can refer to small pieces or clumps.

'Grumo' refers to a lump or clump, often in liquids or semi-liquids, implying density and unevenness (e.g., 'grumos en la leche'). 'Copo' is light, fluffy, and often has a distinct, delicate structure.

El café estaba bien mezclado, sin grumos, pero tenía un ligero copo de espuma.

copo vs partícula

Both refer to small things.

'Partícula' is a very general term for a tiny piece of matter. 'Copo' is more specific, implying a flake-like shape and lightness. A snowflake is a type of particle, but not all particles are copos.

Una partícula de polvo flotaba en el aire, pero el copo de nieve era una obra de arte cristalina.

copo vs trozo

Both refer to pieces of something.

'Trozo' is a general word for a piece, chunk, or fragment, often implying something more solid or substantial. 'Copo' specifically denotes a light, flaky piece.

Me comí un trozo de pastel, y luego vi caer un copo de nieve.

文型パターン

A1

Un copo de nieve.

Mira, un copo de nieve.

A2

Me gustan los copos de [food].

Me gustan los copos de maíz.

B1

Cayeron copos de [weather].

Cayeron copos de nieve toda la noche.

B1

Necesito un copo de [material].

Necesito un copo de algodón para limpiar.

B2

Cada copo de nieve es [adjective].

Cada copo de nieve es único.

B2

Un copo de [figurative group].

Un copo de manifestantes se separó.

C1

La fragilidad de un copo de [metaphorical concept].

La fragilidad de un copo de esperanza.

C2

El fenómeno del copo de [scientific/artistic concept].

El fenómeno del copo de nieve en el arte.

語族

名詞

copo
copos

動詞

acoplar

形容詞

coposo

関連

nieve
escama
floco
cristal
algodón

使い方

frequency

High (especially 'copo de nieve' and 'copos de maíz').

よくある間違い
  • Using 'copo' when 'nieve' is meant. Using 'nieve' for snow in general, and 'copo de nieve' for a single snowflake.

    Learners often confuse the general term for snow ('nieve') with the term for an individual snowflake ('copo de nieve'). Remember: 'nieve' is the substance, 'copo' is the piece.

  • Forgetting the plural form 'copos'. Using 'copos' when referring to multiple snowflakes or flakes.

    When talking about more than one snowflake or flake (like cereal), the plural 'copos' must be used. Forgetting this is a common oversight.

  • Misinterpreting the idiom 'ser un copo de nieve'. Understanding the figurative meaning of being overly sensitive or easily offended.

    Taking 'ser un copo de nieve' literally would mean being a snowflake, which doesn't make sense. The idiom carries a specific, often negative, connotation of fragility.

  • Applying 'copo' to any small piece. Using 'copo' for light, fluffy flakes, not for solid or granular pieces.

    While 'copo' means a small piece, it specifically implies lightness and a flake-like structure. It's not suitable for describing a grain of sand ('grano') or a solid chunk ('trozo').

  • Overusing the figurative meaning. Using the figurative meaning of 'copo' (small group) only when the context is clearly abstract or descriptive of fragmentation.

    The figurative use of 'copo' for small groups is less common than its literal meanings. Using it inappropriately can sound unnatural or confusing.

ヒント

Remember the Plural

When referring to more than one snowflake or flake, remember to use the plural form 'copos'. For example, 'Muchos copos de nieve cayeron' (Many snowflakes fell).

Watch Out for Idioms

The phrase 'ser un copo de nieve' has a specific idiomatic meaning related to being overly sensitive. While it mirrors an English idiom, be aware it can be used negatively.

Distinguish from 'Nieve'

Always remember that 'nieve' is the general term for snow, while 'copo' is an individual snowflake. You can't swim in 'copos', but you can swim in 'nieve' (if it were water!).

Breakfast Buddies

When discussing breakfast, 'copos de maíz' (cornflakes) and 'copos de avena' (oat flakes) are very common. This is a great context to practice using 'copos' in its food-related meaning.

Visualize the Flake

Imagine the delicate, intricate shape of a snowflake when you hear 'copo de nieve'. This visual association can help you remember the primary meaning and its delicate nature.

Fluffy Materials

Think of other light, fluffy things like cotton balls ('copos de algodón'). This broadens your understanding of how 'copo' can describe a light, flake-like form.

Figurative Extension

Consider how 'copo' can represent a small, distinct group. This figurative use, like 'un copo de rebeldes', shows the word's versatility beyond its literal meanings.

Pronunciation Practice

Practice pronouncing 'copo' with clear 'o' sounds on both syllables, ensuring the stress is on the first syllable (CO-po). Avoid adding extra sounds or incorrect stress.

Use it in Sentences

The best way to learn is to use it! Try writing sentences using 'copo' in different contexts: describing snow, food, or even using the idiom. The more you practice, the more natural it will become.

暗記しよう

記憶術

Imagine a little 'cup' (copa) overflowing with tiny 'snowflakes' (copos). The word 'copo' sounds a bit like 'cup-o', so think of a cup full of snow.

視覚的連想

Picture a single, perfect snowflake with intricate arms, resting in the palm of your hand. Imagine it's like a delicate, crystalline 'cup' holding nothing but air.

Word Web

Snowflake Flake Cotton ball Cereal flake Delicate Light Individual Winter

チャレンジ

Try to describe a winter scene using 'copo' and 'nieve' correctly. Also, think of three different non-snow items that could be described as 'copos' and write a sentence for each.

語源

The word 'copo' comes from the Latin word 'cŏpa', which meant 'cup' or 'goblet'. This likely evolved to refer to something small and bowl-shaped, and then by extension, to a small, light piece or flake.

元の意味: Cup, goblet.

Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > Spanish.

文化的な背景

While 'copo de nieve' itself is neutral, the idiom 'ser un copo de nieve' can be sensitive as it's often used pejoratively to describe someone as overly fragile or sensitive.

In English, 'snowflake' is the direct equivalent for the primary meaning. The figurative use of 'snowflake' in English often carries a negative connotation of someone being overly sensitive or easily offended, which is also sometimes mirrored in the Spanish idiom 'ser un copo de nieve'.

The song 'Let It Go' from Disney's Frozen features prominent imagery of snowflakes ('copos de nieve'). Many winter-themed poems and stories in Spanish literature use 'copo de nieve' to create atmosphere and imagery. The breakfast cereal 'Corn Flakes' is known globally, and its Spanish name 'copos de maíz' is a direct application of the word.

実生活で練習する

実際の使用場面

Winter weather discussions

  • copo de nieve
  • caen copos
  • primer copo
  • gran copo

Breakfast and food

  • copos de maíz
  • copos de avena
  • desayunar copos

Crafts and materials

  • copos de algodón
  • usar copos

Describing textures

  • copo de espuma
  • un copo de algo

Figurative language and idioms

  • ser un copo de nieve
  • un copo de rebeldes

会話のきっかけ

"¿Te gusta la nieve? ¿Cuál es tu recuerdo favorito de un día nevado?"

"Si pudieras describir un copo de nieve con una sola palabra, ¿cuál sería?"

"¿Cuál es tu desayuno de cereales favorito? ¿Prefieres los copos o las bolitas?"

"¿Has usado alguna vez copos de algodón para alguna manualidad o para el cuidado personal?"

"¿Qué te viene a la mente cuando escuchas la palabra 'copo'?"

日記のテーマ

Describe un paisaje de invierno detalladamente, usando la palabra 'copo' para referirte a los copos de nieve.

Escribe sobre tu cereal favorito y por qué te gusta, utilizando la expresión 'copos de [tu cereal]'.

Imagina que eres un copo de nieve. Escribe un breve diario sobre tu viaje desde el cielo hasta el suelo.

Piensa en una situación en la que te sentiste muy sensible o frágil. ¿Podrías describirte a ti mismo como un 'copo de nieve' en esa situación?

Inventa un objeto o material que se venda en 'copos' y describe para qué se utiliza.

よくある質問

10 問

The primary and most common meaning of 'copo' is a single snowflake. It refers to the delicate, crystalline structure of frozen water that falls from the sky in winter.

Yes, 'copo' can also refer to any light, fluffy piece or flake of material. The most common examples are breakfast cereals like 'copos de maíz' (cornflakes) and 'copos de avena' (oat flakes), as well as tufts of cotton ('copos de algodón').

'Nieve' is the general term for snow as a substance or phenomenon (e.g., 'la nieve es blanca'). 'Copo' refers to an individual snowflake (e.g., 'un copo de nieve'). Think of it as 'snow' versus 'a snowflake'.

The most direct translation for 'snowflake' is 'copo de nieve'.

Yes, very common ones include 'copos de maíz' (cornflakes) and 'copos de avena' (oat flakes). These refer to breakfast cereals shaped like flakes.

This idiom literally means 'to be a snowflake'. It is often used informally, and sometimes negatively, to describe someone who is very delicate, sensitive, or easily offended, similar to the English term 'snowflake'.

Yes, 'copo' can be used figuratively to describe a small, distinct group or cluster of something, such as 'un copo de rebeldes' (a cluster of rebels).

The plural form of 'copo' is 'copos'.

Yes, 'copo' is a relatively common word, especially in contexts related to winter weather and breakfast cereals. Its usage is widespread in Spanish-speaking countries.

Besides cotton and cereal, 'copos' can be used for light, fluffy materials like dandelion seeds, fine paper shreds, or even certain types of processed cheese or meringue in culinary contexts.

自分をテスト 10 問

/ 10 correct

Perfect score!

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