vs
QUICK ANSWER
"Carpeta" is a noun which is often translated as "folder", and "bolígrafo" is a noun which is often translated as "ballpoint pen". Learn more about the difference between "carpeta" and "bolígrafo" below.
la carpeta(
kahr
-
peh
-
tah
)A feminine noun is almost always used with feminine articles and adjectives (e.g., la mujer bonita, la luna llena).
b. file
Guardo todas las facturas en la carpeta que está sobre el escritorio.I keep all the bills in the file on the desk.
c. binder (with rings)
Tengo todas las notas de clase en mi carpeta.I have all my class notes in a binder.
2. (computing)
3. (case)
a. portfolio
Lucas siempre lleva una carpeta negra al trabajo.Lucas always carries a black portfolio to work.
4. (decoration) (Latin America)
Regionalism used in Latin America: all the countries in South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. Does not include Spain.
a. cover
La tía Paty nos tejió unas carpetas para los sillones.Aunt Paty knitted some covers for our armchairs.
b. table cover
Las mesas estaban decoradas con carpetas de encaje.The tables were decorated with lace table covers.
el bolígrafo(
boh
-
lee
-
grah
-
foh
)A masculine noun is used with masculine articles and adjectives (e.g., el hombre guapo, el sol amarillo).
a. ballpoint pen
Prefiero los bolígrafos a los lápices.I prefer ballpoint pens over pencils.
El artista usa bolígrafos para crear versiones modernas de obras clásicas del Renacimiento.The artist uses ballpoint pens to create modern versions of classic Renaissance paintings.
b. pen
Por favor préstame un bolígrafo para firmar el contrato.Lend me a pen to sign the contract, please.
c. Biro (registered trademark) (United Kingdom)
A word or phrase that is a proprietary term owned by a brand (e.g., iPod).
Regionalism used in the United Kingdom
Este bolígrafo no tiene tinta.This Biro has no ink.