At the A1 level, you only need to know that 'lunares' means 'polka dots' or 'moles'. You will mostly see it when learning about clothes or describing people. For example, 'una camisa de lunares' (a polka-dot shirt) or 'tengo un lunar' (I have a mole). It is a masculine noun. Remember that 'lunar' is one, and 'lunares' is many. You can use it with simple colors like 'lunares rojos' (red dots) or 'lunares negros' (black dots). It's a fun word because it comes from the word for moon, 'luna'. Think of small moons on your clothes! Don't worry about complex grammar yet; just focus on using it with the preposition 'de' for clothes: 'vestido de lunares', 'falda de lunares', 'pañuelo de lunares'. If you are describing a person, use the verb 'tener': 'Él tiene muchos lunares'. It's a very common word in daily life, especially if you talk about what people are wearing. Practice by looking at your own clothes or your friends' clothes and seeing if anyone is wearing 'lunares'. It's also helpful to know if you go to a doctor to describe your skin. Even at this basic level, knowing this word helps you provide more detail in your descriptions.
At the A2 level, you should be comfortable using 'lunares' in more complete sentences and understanding its dual meaning. You'll use it to describe outfits in more detail, such as 'Me gusta esa blusa blanca con lunares azules'. You should also distinguish 'lunares' from other patterns like 'rayas' (stripes) or 'cuadros' (checks/plaid). In terms of physical description, you can start using adjectives to describe the moles, like 'un lunar pequeño' or 'un lunar oscuro'. You'll also encounter the word in cultural contexts, like hearing about 'trajes de flamenca' which are famous for their 'lunares'. At this level, you should also be aware of the word order: the pattern description comes after the noun. It's 'camisa de lunares', not 'lunares camisa'. You might also start to notice that 'lunares' is the plural of 'lunar', and it follows the standard rule of adding '-es' to words ending in a consonant. Practice using it in shopping scenarios: '¿Tienen este modelo con lunares?' or 'Prefiero los lunares grandes'. This will help you navigate real-world situations like buying clothes or describing a person's features to a friend.
By B1, you should understand the nuances of 'lunares' and be able to use it in more varied contexts. You should know that 'lunares' is the standard term for both polka dots and moles, and context will tell you which is which. You can use more complex verbs with it, such as 'combinar' (to combine) or 'destacar' (to stand out). For example: 'Los lunares de su vestido combinan con sus zapatos'. In a medical context, you might talk about 'revisar los lunares' (checking moles) or 'quitar un lunar' (removing a mole). You should also be aware of regional differences, such as the use of 'topos' in Spain for larger polka dots, and how to use it correctly without confusing it with the animal 'mole' in Latin America. You can also use 'lunares' as an adjective (plural of 'lunar') to describe things related to the moon, like 'ciclos lunares' or 'fases lunares', though the noun meaning is more common in daily speech. At this level, you should be able to describe a scene or a person's appearance with precision, using 'lunares' alongside other descriptive terms to paint a clear picture.
At the B2 level, you are expected to use 'lunares' with high accuracy and understand its cultural weight. You should be able to discuss fashion trends, such as 'Los lunares vuelven a estar de moda esta temporada' (Polka dots are back in fashion this season). You can also use the term in more technical dermatological discussions, perhaps using phrases like 'un lunar asimétrico' or 'seguimiento de lunares'. Your understanding of the word should include its etymological connection to 'luna' and how this influences its use in literature or more poetic descriptions. You should also be comfortable with related terms like 'estampado', 'moteado', and 'punteado', choosing the right one for the specific texture or pattern you are describing. For instance, you'd know that a 'dalmatian' has 'manchas' (spots), not 'lunares'. You can also use 'lunares' in more abstract ways in writing, perhaps using it as a metaphor for something scattered or circular. Your ability to distinguish between 'lunares' as a noun and 'lunares' as a plural adjective for 'lunar' (of the moon) should be solid, allowing you to read scientific or astronomical texts without confusion.
At the C1 level, your use of 'lunares' should be sophisticated. you can appreciate the word's role in Spanish iconography, particularly its association with Andalusian culture and Flamenco. You might discuss the semiotics of the 'lunar' in Spanish art or literature, where it often symbolizes beauty, tradition, or even a certain 'gitano' (gypsy) aesthetic. You should be able to use the word in complex grammatical structures and idiomatic expressions if they exist, and understand very subtle differences between 'lunares', 'topos', and 'motas'. In a professional or academic setting, you could discuss the 'evolución de los estampados de lunares en la moda del siglo XX' or the 'importancia de la detección precoz en lunares displásicos'. Your vocabulary should be rich enough to describe the 'lunares' not just by color, but by their distribution, density, and artistic effect. You can also handle the adjective 'lunar' (plural 'lunares') in scientific contexts with ease, discussing 'paisajes lunares' or 'módulos lunares' without any mental overlap with the fashion term.
At the C2 level, you have a native-like grasp of 'lunares'. You can use it with total spontaneity and precision. You might use it in creative writing to evoke specific moods or cultural settings. You understand the historical journey of the word from its Latin root 'lunaris' to its current dual meaning. You can engage in deep cultural discussions about why the 'lunar' became such a central motif in Spanish design compared to other patterns. You are also aware of very rare or archaic uses of the word and can identify it in classical literature where it might have slightly different connotations. In conversation, you can use 'lunares' with subtle irony or humor, perhaps commenting on a particularly loud polka-dot outfit or a famous person's iconic beauty mark. Your mastery extends to knowing exactly when 'lunares' is the only appropriate word and when a synonym like 'topos' or 'puntos' would provide a better stylistic fit for the register you are using. You are a master of the context, the culture, and the linguistic history behind this seemingly simple word.

lunares 30초 만에

  • Lunares refers to both the polka-dot pattern on clothing and moles or beauty marks on the skin, making it a versatile noun in Spanish.
  • The word is masculine (el lunar / los lunares) and originates from 'luna' (moon), comparing the circular shapes to miniature moons.
  • In fashion, it is a quintessential element of Andalusian and Flamenco culture, often seen on traditional dresses during festivals like the Feria de Abril.
  • In a medical context, it is the standard term for skin moles, used by both laypeople and dermatologists to discuss skin health and monitoring.

The Spanish word lunares is a fascinating noun that serves a dual purpose in the Spanish language, though its most common association for language learners is within the realm of fashion and physical description. Primarily, lunares refers to polka dots—that classic pattern of repeating circles that adorns everything from summer dresses to neckties. However, the word is deeply rooted in the celestial, deriving from the word luna (moon). Just as the moon appears as a distinct circle in the night sky, these small circular patterns on fabric or marks on the skin are seen as 'little moons.'

Fashion Context
In the world of clothing, un vestido de lunares is a staple of Spanish culture, particularly in the south. When you think of the iconic flamenco dancers of Andalusia, their vibrant dresses, known as trajes de flamenca, are almost synonymous with the lunares pattern. In this context, the word evokes a sense of tradition, celebration, and rhythmic movement.

Ella siempre lleva un pañuelo de lunares rojos cuando va a la feria.

Beyond the fabric, lunares is the standard term for beauty marks or moles on the human body. Whether it is a small mole on the cheek or a series of marks on one's back, they are all called lunares. This dual meaning rarely causes confusion because the context usually makes it clear whether one is discussing a textile pattern or a physical characteristic. For instance, if a doctor is examining your skin, they are looking at your lunares (moles), but if a tailor is measuring you for a suit, they might suggest a tie with lunares (polka dots).

Anatomy and Health
In a medical or dermatological setting, lunares are monitored for changes in size or color. The term is neutral and used by both professionals and the general public, unlike the more technical English term 'nevus.'

El dermatólogo me revisó todos los lunares para asegurar que no fueran peligrosos.

Culturally, the lunar (singular) is often seen as a mark of beauty. Think of the famous 'beauty mark' of Marilyn Monroe; in Spanish, this would be described as a lunar. This adds a layer of aesthetic appreciation to the word that goes beyond mere description. In literature and song, lunares often appear as romanticized features, further cementing their place in the Spanish linguistic landscape as something more than just spots.

Usage in Art
In modern art and graphic design, estampado de lunares refers to the dot-matrix or pointillist style that uses circles to create images. It is a versatile term that bridges the gap between traditional craft and modern aesthetics.

La artista decoró la pared con lunares de colores brillantes.

¿Prefieres la camisa de rayas o la de lunares?

Ese lunar cerca de tu ojo te queda muy bien.

Using lunares correctly involves understanding its role as a noun and how it interacts with adjectives and prepositions. Most commonly, you will see it following the preposition de to describe a pattern. For example, una falda de lunares translates to 'a polka-dot skirt.' Note that in Spanish, we don't usually say 'polka-dot' as an adjective before the noun; instead, we say 'skirt of dots.'

Describing Patterns
When describing the color of the dots, the color adjective usually follows lunares. For example, lunares blancos (white dots). If you want to specify the background color, you would say azul con lunares blancos (blue with white polka dots).

Me compré una corbata azul con lunares amarillos para la boda.

In the context of physical appearance, lunares is used with verbs like tener (to have) or salir (to appear/come out). If someone has many moles, you might say tiene muchos lunares. If a new mole appears, you would say me ha salido un lunar nuevo. It is important to distinguish this from pecas (freckles), which are typically smaller and flatter.

Medical Contexts
Sentences involving health often use verbs like revisar (to check) or quitar (to remove). A common phrase is revisión de lunares, which refers to a skin check-up.

Es importante protegerse del sol para evitar que los lunares cambien de forma.

In more advanced usage, you might encounter lunares as an adjective itself, meaning 'lunar' or 'relating to the moon.' However, this is quite rare in daily conversation and is usually replaced by the adjective lunar (singular for both masculine and feminine). For example, ciclo lunar (lunar cycle). In the plural, it would be ciclos lunares. This is a point of potential confusion: lunares can be the plural of the noun lunar (mole/dot) or the plural of the adjective lunar (lunar).

Abstract and Literary Use
In poetry, 'lunares' might be used to describe a landscape dappled with shadows or light, though this is metaphorical. The connection between the moon and the spots remains a powerful image in Spanish literature.

La noche estaba salpicada de lunares de luz plateada.

Esa tela de lunares es perfecta para un vestido de verano.

Tengo tres lunares en el brazo derecho.

If you spend time in Spain, particularly during the spring and summer months, the word lunares will be everywhere. One of the most prominent places you will hear it is at the Feria de Abril in Seville or any other Andalusian fair. Here, the traje de flamenca (flamenco dress) is the star of the show, and the vast majority of these dresses feature lunares of all sizes and colors. Designers and attendees will constantly discuss the size of the lunares, the color combinations, and how they complement the overall look.

In the Shopping Mall
When browsing stores like Zara or Mango, you might ask a shop assistant: '¿Tienen esta blusa en lunares?' (Do you have this blouse in polka dots?). It is a standard term in the retail world, used to distinguish patterns from rayas (stripes) or flores (floral).

Mira ese escaparate, el vestido de lunares es tendencia esta temporada.

Another very common setting is the dermatologist's office or a general health check-up. In Spanish-speaking countries, there is a strong emphasis on skin health due to the high levels of sun exposure. You will hear phrases like 'mapeo de lunares' (mole mapping) or 'revisar los lunares'. Parents often point out lunares on their children to see if they are growing, making it a word learned early in life.

Daily Conversations
Friends might comment on each other's outfits or physical traits. '¡Qué monos tus calcetines de lunares!' (How cute your polka-dot socks are!) or 'Siempre me ha gustado ese lunar que tienes en la mejilla' (I've always liked that beauty mark you have on your cheek).

El médico me dijo que mis lunares están todos bien y no hay de qué preocuparse.

Pop culture also plays a role. Songs, especially in the pop and flamenco-fusion genres, often mention lunares as a symbol of charm or traditional beauty. If you listen to artists like Rosalía or traditional Copla singers, the word frequently appears in lyrics describing dresses or the beauty of a person. This cultural saturation ensures that the word is not just a vocabulary item but a piece of the Spanish identity.

In Literature
Authors use 'lunares' to provide vivid descriptions. Describing a character with 'un lunar junto a los labios' immediately creates a specific, often attractive, visual image for the reader.

La bailaora agitaba su falda de lunares al ritmo de la guitarra.

¿Has visto mis calzoncillos de lunares? No los encuentro por ninguna parte.

Tengo que ir a que me quiten un par de lunares de la espalda.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using lunares is trying to translate 'polka dot' literally. There is no 'polka' in the Spanish term. Saying puntos de polka is an anglicism and sounds very unnatural. Stick to lunares for the pattern. Another common error is confusing lunares with pecas. While both are marks on the skin, pecas (freckles) are usually smaller, more numerous, and caused by sun exposure, whereas lunares (moles) are often larger and can be present from birth.

Gender and Number Confusion
Beginners often forget that 'lunar' is masculine. They might say *'una lunar'* or *'unas lunares'*. It is always un lunar or los lunares. Additionally, remember that when describing clothing, 'lunares' is almost always plural because a pattern consists of more than one dot.

Incorrecto: Llevo una camisa de lunar. Correcto: Llevo una camisa de lunares.

Another nuance involves the word manchas (spots/stains). If you have a stain on your shirt, it is a mancha. If the shirt has a deliberate pattern of circles, it has lunares. Using manchas to describe polka dots implies that the circles are messy or accidental. Similarly, puntos can mean dots, but in the context of fashion, puntos usually refers to very small dots (like pin-dots) or the 'point' of a sentence. Lunares is the specific term for the classic polka-dot size.

Confusion with 'Lunar' (Adjective)
As mentioned before, 'lunares' can be the plural of the adjective 'lunar' (meaning 'of the moon'). While 'misiones lunares' (lunar missions) is correct, don't let this confuse you when you see the word used to describe a dress. Context is key!

No confundas las pecas con los lunares; son diferentes tipos de marcas en la piel.

Finally, be careful with the word topos. In Spain, topos is a very common synonym for polka dots, but in many Latin American countries, topo means 'mole' (the animal). If you are in Mexico and talk about una camisa de topos, people will understand you, but it might sound like you have a shirt covered in little subterranean mammals! In those regions, lunares is much safer.

Word Order
Make sure not to put the adjective before the noun. It's 'vestido de lunares', not *'lunares vestido'*.

Ella tiene un lunar muy característico en la barbilla.

Compré papel de regalo de lunares para el cumpleaños de mi sobrina.

Esos lunares rojos sobre fondo blanco son muy alegres.

While lunares is the most versatile word, there are several alternatives depending on the context and the region you are in. Understanding these nuances will help you sound more like a native speaker and allow you to describe patterns and physical features with more precision.

Topos
Commonly used in Spain. Topos usually refers to larger dots. While lunares is classic and can be any size, topos specifically evokes the image of big, bold circles. As noted before, use with caution in Latin America.
Puntos / Puntitos
General words for dots. Puntitos is often used for very small dots (pin-dots). If the pattern is so small it almost looks like a solid color from afar, puntitos is the better choice.
Motas
This refers to specks or small spots. It is often used for patterns that are less regular than polka dots, like the specks on a bird's egg or a 'speckled' fabric.

La blusa no tiene lunares, tiene pequeños puntitos casi imperceptibles.

When it comes to skin, the main alternative is pecas (freckles). It is important to know the difference: lunares are individual and often darker/raised, while pecas are small, flat, and usually come in clusters on the face or shoulders. Another term is manchas de nacimiento (birthmarks), which are larger and more irregular than a standard lunar.

Estampado
This is the general word for 'print' or 'pattern.' You can say estampado de lunares to be more specific about the type of print.

Prefiero los topos grandes para las cortinas de la cocina.

In a technical or scientific context, you might see the word nevo or nevus, which is the medical term for a mole. However, in 99% of situations, lunar is the word people use. Even doctors will use lunar when speaking to patients to ensure they are understood. In fashion, you might also hear moteado (spotted/speckled), which describes a pattern that looks like it has been splashed with spots, rather than the clean circles of lunares.

El dálmata es un perro con un pelaje lleno de manchas, no de lunares.

Ese tejido moteado es muy elegante para un abrigo de invierno.

¿Ves ese puntito negro en el horizonte? Es un barco.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The term 'lunares' was applied to moles and polka dots because their round shape reminded people of the full moon. While English uses 'polka' (from the dance), Spanish stayed with the celestial theme.

발음 가이드

UK /luˈna.ɾes/
US /luˈnɑ.reɪs/
The stress is on the second syllable: lu-NA-res.
라임이 맞는 단어
pinares lugares cantares jugares mirares pesares solares vivares
자주 하는 실수
  • Pronouncing the 'r' as an English 'r' (it should be a flick of the tongue).
  • Making the 'u' sound like 'you' (it should be 'oo').
  • Stressing the first or last syllable.
  • Pronouncing the 's' as a 'z'.
  • Diphthongizing the 'e' into an 'ay' sound.

난이도

독해 2/5

Easy to recognize in context, though the dual meaning requires attention.

쓰기 3/5

Requires remembering the 'de' preposition for patterns and masculine gender.

말하기 3/5

The tapped 'r' and pure vowels need practice for perfect pronunciation.

듣기 2/5

Clear sounding word, rarely confused with others.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

luna ropa piel cuerpo colores

다음에 배울 것

rayas cuadros liso estampado pecas

고급

dermatología melanoma iconografía estética textil

알아야 할 문법

Nouns ending in a consonant add -es for plural.

lunar -> lunares

Adjective phrases with 'de' follow the noun.

camisa de lunares

Gender agreement with masculine nouns.

los lunares oscuros

Use of 'tener' for physical features.

Él tiene lunares.

Plurality in patterns.

Always 'lunares' (plural) for a pattern, never 'lunar' (singular).

수준별 예문

1

Mi abuela tiene un lunar en la cara.

My grandmother has a mole on her face.

Uses 'un lunar' (singular) for a single mole.

2

Me gusta tu falda de lunares.

I like your polka-dot skirt.

'De lunares' functions as an adjective phrase.

3

Los lunares son negros.

The polka dots are black.

Adjective 'negros' agrees with masculine plural 'lunares'.

4

Tengo muchos lunares en los brazos.

I have many moles on my arms.

Uses 'muchos' to quantify the plural noun.

5

Ella lleva una blusa de lunares rojos.

She is wearing a red polka-dot blouse.

Color 'rojos' follows 'lunares'.

6

¿Es un lunar o una peca?

Is it a mole or a freckle?

Contrasts two common skin marks.

7

El perro tiene lunares pequeños.

The dog has small dots/spots.

'Pequeños' agrees with 'lunares'.

8

Compré papel de lunares.

I bought polka-dot paper.

Common usage for patterns on objects.

1

Este vestido de lunares es muy tradicional en España.

This polka-dot dress is very traditional in Spain.

Demonstrative 'este' refers to 'vestido'.

2

Tengo que ir al médico para revisar mis lunares.

I have to go to the doctor to check my moles.

Infinitive 'revisar' follows 'para'.

3

¿Prefieres la corbata de rayas o la de lunares?

Do you prefer the striped tie or the polka-dot one?

Uses 'la de' to avoid repeating 'corbata'.

4

Ella tiene un lunar muy bonito cerca del ojo.

She has a very pretty beauty mark near her eye.

Adjective 'bonito' describes the 'lunar'.

5

Los lunares blancos sobre fondo azul quedan muy bien.

White polka dots on a blue background look very good.

Subject-verb agreement with 'quedan'.

6

No me gustan los lunares demasiado grandes.

I don't like polka dots that are too big.

Adverb 'demasiado' modifies 'grandes'.

7

Mi camisa nueva tiene lunares de colores.

My new shirt has colorful polka dots.

'De colores' is a common way to say 'colorful'.

8

Aquel niño tiene un lunar en forma de corazón.

That boy has a heart-shaped mole.

Uses 'en forma de' to describe shape.

1

El dermatólogo dice que este lunar ha cambiado de color.

The dermatologist says this mole has changed color.

Present perfect 'ha cambiado'.

2

Para la fiesta, todas las bailarinas llevaban trajes de lunares.

For the party, all the dancers wore polka-dot outfits.

Imperfect 'llevaban' for description in the past.

3

Es difícil encontrar un pañuelo que tenga lunares tan pequeños.

It's hard to find a scarf that has such small polka dots.

Subjunctive 'tenga' after 'difícil encontrar... que'.

4

Si te salen lunares nuevos, deberías ir a que te los vean.

If new moles appear, you should go have them looked at.

Conditional 'si' clause with 'deberías'.

5

El diseño de lunares es un clásico que nunca pasa de moda.

The polka-dot design is a classic that never goes out of style.

Relative clause starting with 'que'.

6

Me encantan esas cortinas de lunares para el cuarto del bebé.

I love those polka-dot curtains for the baby's room.

Verb 'encantar' used with plural subject 'cortinas'.

7

Asegúrate de aplicarte crema solar sobre los lunares más oscuros.

Make sure to apply sunscreen over the darkest moles.

Imperative 'asegúrate'.

8

Combinó sus zapatos rojos con un bolso de lunares a juego.

She combined her red shoes with a matching polka-dot bag.

Preterite 'combinó' and 'a juego' (matching).

1

La tendencia actual recupera los lunares de los años cincuenta.

The current trend brings back the polka dots of the fifties.

Uses 'recuperar' in a fashion context.

2

Se recomienda un mapeo de lunares anual para personas con piel clara.

An annual mole mapping is recommended for fair-skinned people.

Passive 'se recomienda'.

3

El estampado de lunares aporta un aire juvenil y divertido a cualquier prenda.

The polka-dot print brings a youthful and fun air to any garment.

Verb 'aportar' (to provide/contribute).

4

Aunque parezcan pecas, en realidad son pequeños lunares de nacimiento.

Although they look like freckles, they are actually small birth moles.

Subjunctive 'parezcan' after 'aunque' for a known fact/concession.

5

La artista es conocida por cubrir habitaciones enteras con lunares de colores.

The artist is known for covering entire rooms with colored polka dots.

Gerund 'cubrir' after preposition 'por'.

6

No todos los lunares son peligrosos, pero hay que vigilar su evolución.

Not all moles are dangerous, but their evolution must be monitored.

'Hay que' plus infinitive for necessity.

7

El maillot de lunares identifica al mejor escalador en las vueltas ciclistas.

The polka-dot jersey identifies the best climber in cycling tours.

Specific cultural/sporting reference.

8

Su piel estaba salpicada de lunares, como un cielo estrellado.

Her skin was sprinkled with moles, like a starry sky.

Simile using 'como'.

1

La asimetría en los bordes de los lunares es un factor de riesgo que no debe ignorarse.

Asymmetry in the edges of moles is a risk factor that should not be ignored.

Formal medical terminology.

2

El uso de lunares en el diseño gráfico contemporáneo evoca una estética retro muy específica.

The use of polka dots in contemporary graphic design evokes a very specific retro aesthetic.

Abstract noun usage.

3

A lo largo de su obra, el poeta utiliza los lunares como metáfora de la imperfección humana.

Throughout his work, the poet uses moles as a metaphor for human imperfection.

Literary analysis context.

4

Es imperativo realizar una biopsia si el lunar presenta un crecimiento anómalo.

It is imperative to perform a biopsy if the mole shows abnormal growth.

High-level vocabulary like 'anómalo'.

5

La bailaora desplegó su bata de cola, cuyos lunares parecían cobrar vida propia.

The dancer unfurled her long-tailed dress, whose polka dots seemed to take on a life of their own.

Relative pronoun 'cuyos' (whose).

6

La distinción entre topos y lunares puede parecer trivial, pero es crucial en la alta costura.

The distinction between large dots and polka dots may seem trivial, but it is crucial in haute couture.

Nuanced comparison.

7

Los cambios hormonales durante el embarazo pueden provocar la aparición de nuevos lunares.

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause the appearance of new moles.

Scientific cause-and-effect structure.

8

Aquella tela antigua, de lunares ya desgastados por el tiempo, guardaba muchas historias.

That old fabric, with polka dots already worn by time, held many stories.

Evocative, descriptive language.

1

La meticulosidad con la que el artista disponía cada uno de los lunares rozaba la obsesión.

The meticulousness with which the artist arranged each of the dots bordered on obsession.

Complex sentence structure with 'con la que'.

2

Bajo la luz estroboscópica, los lunares de su vestido creaban un efecto óptico desconcertante.

Under the strobe light, the polka dots on her dress created a disconcerting optical effect.

Advanced descriptive adjectives.

3

La dermatoscopia digital permite un seguimiento exhaustivo de la morfología de los lunares.

Digital dermoscopy allows for exhaustive monitoring of the morphology of moles.

Technical medical register.

4

En la iconografía de la España profunda, los lunares trascienden lo meramente decorativo.

In the iconography of deep Spain, polka dots transcend the merely decorative.

Philosophical/Sociological register.

5

Resulta fascinante cómo una simple sucesión de lunares puede articular todo un discurso estético.

It is fascinating how a simple succession of dots can articulate an entire aesthetic discourse.

Abstract subject 'cómo...'.

6

El lunar que lucía sobre el labio superior era su rasgo más distintivo y cautivador.

The beauty mark she wore above her upper lip was her most distinctive and captivating feature.

Use of 'lucir' (to wear/show off).

7

Pese a la sobriedad del conjunto, el pañuelo de lunares aportaba un contrapunto de ironía.

Despite the sobriety of the outfit, the polka-dot scarf provided a counterpoint of irony.

Advanced conjunction 'pese a'.

8

La topografía de su espalda era un mapa de lunares y recuerdos de veranos pasados.

The topography of her back was a map of moles and memories of past summers.

Metaphorical use of 'topografía'.

자주 쓰는 조합

vestido de lunares
revisión de lunares
lunares rojos
quitar un lunar
estampado de lunares
muchos lunares
lunares pequeños
maillot de lunares
lunar de belleza
lleno de lunares

자주 쓰는 구문

de lunares

— Used to describe anything with a polka-dot pattern.

Compré servilletas de lunares.

un lunar en la cara

— A common way to describe a beauty mark or mole on the face.

Tiene un lunar en la cara igual que su madre.

revisarse los lunares

— To have one's moles checked by a professional.

Es bueno revisarse los lunares una vez al año.

fondo de lunares

— A background consisting of polka dots.

La página web tiene un fondo de lunares grises.

pañuelo de lunares

— A polka-dot scarf, often associated with traditional Spanish dress.

Llevaba un pañuelo de lunares anudado al cuello.

lunares y rayas

— Mixing dots and stripes, often discussed in fashion.

No me gusta mezclar lunares y rayas.

lunar oscuro

— A dark mole, often a point of medical observation.

Ese lunar oscuro parece haber crecido.

vestida de lunares

— Dressed in polka dots.

Apareció vestida de lunares de pies a cabeza.

tela de lunares

— Polka-dot fabric.

Necesito dos metros de tela de lunares.

lunar sospechoso

— A suspicious-looking mole (medically).

El médico analizó el lunar sospechoso.

자주 혼동되는 단어

lunares vs lunes

A beginner might confuse the word for Monday with the word for dots/moles due to the first four letters.

lunares vs pecas

Freckles are small and sun-induced; lunares are moles or dots.

lunares vs topos

In some countries, this means the animal mole, but in Spain, it means large dots.

관용어 및 표현

"no tener ni un lunar"

— To be flawless or without any fault (metaphorical, though rare).

Su reputación no tiene ni un lunar.

literary
"ser el lunar de..."

— To be the only 'spot' or defect in something otherwise perfect.

Ese error fue el único lunar de su carrera.

formal
"poner un lunar"

— To find a fault or a small defect in something.

No se le puede poner un lunar a su actuación.

neutral
"lunar postizo"

— A fake beauty mark, common in historical fashion.

En el siglo XVIII usaban lunares postizos.

historical
"limpio de lunares"

— Technically used in skin health, but can mean 'clear' metaphorically.

El examen salió limpio de lunares peligrosos.

neutral
"baile de lunares"

— A figurative way to describe a flamenco dance or festival.

La feria fue un auténtico baile de lunares.

poetic
"lunar de la suerte"

— A mole believed to bring good luck.

Dice que ese es su lunar de la suerte.

informal
"misión lunar"

— Strictly speaking, a moon mission (using 'lunar' as adjective).

La próxima misión lunar será en 2025.

scientific
"ciclo de lunares"

— Though technically 'ciclos lunares', it's a common phrase in astronomy.

Estudiamos los ciclos lunares en clase.

educational
"marcado por lunares"

— Marked by spots, can be literal or figurative.

Su camino estuvo marcado por lunares de éxito.

poetic

혼동하기 쉬운

lunares vs lunar (adjective)

Same spelling as the singular noun.

The noun means a dot/mole; the adjective means related to the moon. Context usually clarifies this easily.

El eclipse lunar (adjective) vs. Tengo un lunar (noun).

lunares vs pecas

Both are marks on the skin.

Pecas are freckles (flat, light brown, numerous). Lunares are moles (often raised, darker, individual).

Tiene pecas en la nariz y un lunar en la barbilla.

lunares vs manchas

Both refer to spots.

Manchas are irregular spots or stains (like on a leopard or a dirty shirt). Lunares are perfect circles.

El leopardo tiene manchas; mi vestido tiene lunares.

lunares vs puntos

Both mean dots.

Puntos is generic (a period at the end of a sentence, a point in a game). Lunares is specific to patterns and moles.

Dibuja tres puntos en el papel; compra tela de lunares.

lunares vs topos

Regional synonym for dots.

Topos is used mainly in Spain for large dots. In Latin America, it usually refers to the animal (mole).

En Madrid dicen topos, en México dicen lunares.

문장 패턴

A1

Tengo [cantidad] lunares.

Tengo tres lunares.

A1

Es una [prenda] de lunares.

Es una falda de lunares.

A2

Me gusta el/la [prenda] de lunares [color].

Me gusta la blusa de lunares rojos.

B1

Necesito que el médico me revise los lunares.

Necesito que el médico me revise los lunares.

B2

El estampado de lunares es tendencia en [época].

El estampado de lunares es tendencia en primavera.

C1

La presencia de lunares puede indicar [condición].

La presencia de lunares puede indicar una predisposición genética.

C1

Los lunares aportan un toque de [estilo] al diseño.

Los lunares aportan un toque de elegancia al diseño.

C2

Se observa una evolución en la morfología de los lunares.

Se observa una evolución en la morfología de los lunares.

어휘 가족

명사

luna (moon)
lunar (mole/dot)
lunación (lunation)
lunería (colloquial/rare: a collection of dots)

동사

lunear (rare: to act strangely, influenced by the moon)

형용사

lunar (relating to the moon)
alunado (moody/lunatic)
lunático (lunatic)

관련

topos
puntos
pecas
estampado
manchas

사용법

frequency

Common in daily life, fashion, and health.

자주 하는 실수
  • Using 'polka' in the translation. lunares

    Spanish does not use the word 'polka' for this pattern. 'Lunares' is the only correct term.

  • Saying 'una lunar' for a mole. un lunar

    The word is masculine, even though it refers to something on a woman's face or a dress.

  • Confusing 'lunares' with 'pecas'. lunares (moles), pecas (freckles)

    These are biologically and linguistically different. Moles are 'lunares', freckles are 'pecas'.

  • Using 'lunares' for animal spots. manchas

    Animals like leopards or cows have 'manchas', not 'lunares', unless the spots are perfectly circular.

  • Putting 'lunares' before the noun. vestido de lunares

    In Spanish, the pattern description must follow the noun using the preposition 'de'.

Always Plural for Clothing

When describing a pattern, always use the plural 'lunares'. A shirt with only one dot would be very strange!

Flamenco Connection

If you visit Andalusia, you will see 'lunares' everywhere. It is the iconic pattern of flamenco culture.

Moon Link

Remembering that 'lunar' comes from 'luna' (moon) makes it much easier to memorize. Just think of moon-shaped spots.

Skin Health

In Spanish, 'revisión de lunares' is a common health check. It's a useful phrase to know for your well-being.

Topos vs Lunares

In Spain, use 'topos' for big dots and 'lunares' for standard ones. In the Americas, stick to 'lunares' to avoid confusion.

The Tapped R

The 'r' in 'lunares' is a single tap, not a roll. It's quick and soft.

Describing Backgrounds

To describe the colors fully, say '[pattern color] sobre fondo [background color]'. E.g., 'lunares blancos sobre fondo rojo'.

Don't say Polka

Never use the word 'polka' in Spanish to describe dots. It will mark you immediately as a non-native speaker.

Flawless Reputation

You can say someone's record is 'sin un lunar' to mean it is perfect and without any faults.

Asking for Patterns

When shopping, ask '¿Tienen estampados de lunares?' to see all their polka-dot options.

암기하기

기억법

Think of the 'luna' (moon). Polka dots and moles are like many little 'lunas' (moons) scattered on a dress or on your skin.

시각적 연상

Picture a bright full moon in the dark sky. Now shrink it and repeat it across a red fabric. Those are 'lunares'.

Word Web

Luna Noche Vestido Piel Círculo Flamenco Dermatólogo Estampado

챌린지

Go through your wardrobe and count how many items of clothing have 'lunares'. Then, look in the mirror and see if you can find three 'lunares' on your arms.

어원

Derived from the Latin 'lunaris', which means 'pertaining to the moon' ('luna').

원래 의미: Originally referred to anything that resembled the moon or was influenced by it.

Romance (Spanish).

문화적 맥락

No major sensitivities, but when discussing 'lunares' as moles, be mindful that it is a medical topic for some.

English speakers often look for the word 'polka', but it doesn't exist in Spanish. 'Polka dots' became popular in the US/UK in the mid-19th century, named after the dance craze.

The 'Maillot de Lunares' (Polka Dot Jersey) in the Tour de France. Yayoi Kusama, the Japanese artist famous for her 'lunares' (polka dots). Marilyn Monroe's iconic 'lunar' (beauty mark).

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

Clothing Store

  • ¿Tienen esto en lunares?
  • Busco una blusa de lunares.
  • ¿Hay lunares más pequeños?
  • El estampado de lunares es bonito.

Doctor's Office

  • Quiero revisarme los lunares.
  • Este lunar me pica.
  • ¿Es peligroso este lunar?
  • Me ha salido un lunar nuevo.

Describing People

  • Tiene un lunar en la mejilla.
  • Es el chico de los lunares.
  • Tiene muchos lunares en la espalda.
  • Su lunar es muy característico.

Art and Design

  • Dibuja unos lunares aquí.
  • Usa lunares de colores.
  • El fondo tiene lunares.
  • Es un patrón de lunares.

Festivals/Flamenco

  • ¡Qué vestido de lunares más guapo!
  • Los lunares son típicos de la feria.
  • Baila con su falda de lunares.
  • Toda la caseta está llena de lunares.

대화 시작하기

"¿Te gustan más las prendas lisas o con lunares?"

"¿Sabías que la palabra 'lunares' viene de la luna?"

"¿Tienes algún lunar que consideres tu marca de belleza?"

"¿Crees que los lunares son un estampado que nunca pasa de moda?"

"¿Alguna vez has ido a un dermatólogo para que te revise los lunares?"

일기 주제

Describe tu prenda favorita de lunares. ¿Cuándo la compraste y por qué te gusta?

Escribe sobre un lunar que tengas. ¿Dónde está? ¿Te gusta o preferirías no tenerlo?

Imagina que diseñas un traje para la Feria de Abril. ¿Cómo serían los lunares?

Investiga por qué los lunares son tan importantes en el flamenco y escribe tus conclusiones.

Relata una visita ficticia al dermatólogo para una revisión de lunares.

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

Se dice 'lunares'. Es la palabra más común y aceptada en todo el mundo hispanohablante. Ejemplo: 'una camisa de lunares'.

Sí, exactamente. Se usa para las marcas oscuras en la piel. Ejemplo: 'El médico me revisó los lunares'.

En España, 'topos' se usa para puntos grandes, mientras que 'lunares' es el término general y más tradicional. En Latinoamérica, es mejor usar siempre 'lunares'.

Es masculino: 'el lunar' (singular) y 'los lunares' (plural). Nunca se usa en femenino.

Viene de 'luna'. Se llama así porque los puntos redondos se parecen a pequeñas lunas.

Se dice 'un vestido de lunares'. Usamos la preposición 'de' para indicar el patrón.

No, para las pecas se usa la palabra 'pecas'. Los lunares son más grandes y oscuros que las pecas.

Normalmente no. Para animales se usa 'manchas'. Sin embargo, si los puntos son muy redondos y perfectos, alguien podría decir 'lunares' de forma cariñosa.

Es lo que en inglés se llama 'beauty mark'. Un pequeño lunar en la cara que se considera atractivo.

No, eso sonaría como una camisa que pertenece a la luna. Debes decir 'camisa de lunares'.

셀프 테스트 180 질문

writing

Translate: 'I have a black mole.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'A polka-dot shirt.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Describe a dress with white dots on a blue background.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'Do you have this in polka dots?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'I need to check my moles at the doctor.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence using 'lunares' and 'flamenco'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Explain the difference between 'pecas' and 'lunares' in Spanish.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'Polka dots are in fashion this spring.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a poetic sentence using 'lunares' as a metaphor.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'The biopsy showed that the mole was benign.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'My socks have dots.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'A small mole.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'She has a mole near her mouth.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'I prefer stripes to polka dots.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'The doctor removed a mole from my back.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'The gift paper is red with yellow dots.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'The climber won the polka-dot jersey.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write about why people like polka dots.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Discuss the medical importance of monitoring 'lunares'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Describe a flamenco scene using the word 'lunares'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Pronuncia: 'Lunares'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Di: 'Tengo un lunar'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Describe tu ropa usando 'lunares'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Pregunta el precio de un vestido de lunares.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Explica dónde tienes un lunar.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Habla sobre la moda de los lunares.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Describe un traje de flamenca.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Habla sobre la importancia de ir al dermatólogo.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Debate sobre el uso de lunares en el arte moderno.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Explica la etimología de 'lunares'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Di: 'Lunares rojos'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Di: 'Un lunar pequeño'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Di: 'Me gusta tu pañuelo de lunares'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Di: '¿Dónde está el lunar?'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Describe un objeto con lunares.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Di: 'El sol es malo para los lunares'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Explica qué es un maillot de lunares.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Di: 'Ese lunar me parece sospechoso'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Describe una pintura de lunares.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Habla sobre la belleza de los lunares en la cara.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Escucha: 'Tengo un lunar en el pie'. ¿Dónde está el lunar?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Escucha: 'La blusa es de lunares'. ¿Cómo es la blusa?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Escucha: 'Mira mis calcetines de lunares'. ¿Qué tiene lunares?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Escucha: 'El lunar es muy grande'. ¿Cómo es el lunar?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Escucha: 'Hay que vigilar los lunares oscuros'. ¿Qué hay que vigilar?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Escucha: 'El vestido de lunares es para la fiesta'. ¿Para qué es el vestido?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Escucha: 'Los lunares son tendencia este verano'. ¿Cuándo son tendencia?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Escucha: 'El médico analizó el lunar sospechoso'. ¿Qué analizó el médico?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Escucha: 'La estética de los lunares es muy andaluza'. ¿De dónde es la estética?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Escucha: 'El lunar postizo era común en la nobleza'. ¿Quién lo usaba?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'I have a beauty mark on my cheek.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Describe the pattern of a dalmatian.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Escucha: 'Ponte la corbata de lunares'. ¿Qué debe ponerse?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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