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"Maletín" is a noun which is often translated as "briefcase", and "bolso" is a noun which is often translated as "bag". Learn more about the difference between "maletín" and "bolso" below.
el maletín(
mah
-
leh
-
teen
)A masculine noun is used with masculine articles and adjectives (e.g., el hombre guapo, el sol amarillo).
a. briefcase
El profesor olvidó el maletín con los exámenes en su oficina.The teacher forgot his briefcase with the exams in his office.
b. attaché case
Mis compañeros me regalaron un maletín de cuero en mi último día de trabajo.My colleagues gave me a leather attaché case for my last day of work.
2. (luggage)
a. small case
Es un viaje de un día, así que no necesitaré más que un maletín.It is a day trip, so I will not need more than a small case.
b. overnight bag
Mi amigo solo trajo un maletín para el viaje entero.My friend only brought an overnight bag for the entire trip.
3. (medicine)
a. bag
El doctor llevaba en su maletín todo tipo de medicinas.The doctor carried in his bag all kinds of medicines.
el bolso(
bohl
-
soh
)A masculine noun is used with masculine articles and adjectives (e.g., el hombre guapo, el sol amarillo).
1. (general)
a. bag
Por favor, vacíe el contenido de su bolso para el control de seguridad.Please empty the contents of your bag for the security check.
b. handbag
El bolso que llevaba hacía juego perfecto con su atuendo.The handbag that she was carrying matched her outfit perfectly.
c. purse (United States)
Regionalism used in the United States
Mamá, ¿tienes algún pañuelo en tu bolso?Mom, do you have any tissues in your purse?
