mochila: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowInformal, regional
Quick answer
What does “mochila” mean?
A backpack or rucksack, typically used for carrying books, supplies, or personal items.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A backpack or rucksack, typically used for carrying books, supplies, or personal items.
In some contexts, particularly in American Southwest or Spanish-influenced regions, it can refer to a traditional woven or leather bag. In computing, it's sometimes used as a brand name for laptop bags or cases.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Virtually unknown in British English. In American English, it's recognized primarily in southwestern states with Hispanic cultural influence.
Connotations
In American English: evokes Southwestern/US-Mexico border culture, sometimes associated with traditional craftsmanship. In British English: would likely be perceived as a foreign word requiring explanation.
Frequency
Extremely rare in British English. Low frequency in American English overall, but moderately familiar in specific regions like Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, California.
Grammar
How to Use “mochila” in a Sentence
carry + mochilapack + mochilawear + mochilamochila + is made ofVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “mochila” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- Not used as a verb in British English.
American English
- Not used as a verb in American English.
adverb
British English
- Not used as an adverb in British English.
American English
- Not used as an adverb in American English.
adjective
British English
- Not used as an adjective in British English.
American English
- Not used as an adjective in American English.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used in standard business contexts.
Academic
Rare in academic writing except in cultural or linguistic studies discussing loanwords.
Everyday
Used in everyday speech only in specific geographical regions with Spanish influence.
Technical
Not used in technical fields except possibly in product names for bags or cases.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “mochila”
- Mispronouncing as /mɒkɪlə/ or /məʊʃɪlə/.
- Using it in contexts where 'backpack' is expected and would be more widely understood.
- Spelling as 'machila' or 'mochilla'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is not common in most varieties of English. It is a regional word, primarily understood in parts of the United States with strong Spanish cultural influence, such as the Southwest.
In meaning, there is no difference; both refer to a bag carried on the back. 'Mochila' is the Spanish word for it. In English, using 'mochila' often implies a specific cultural connection (Hispanic/Southwestern) or a style of bag (e.g., traditionally woven), whereas 'backpack' is the neutral, generic term.
It is typically pronounced /moʊˈtʃiːlə/ in American English, approximating the Spanish pronunciation. The stress is on the second syllable ('chi').
For clear and universal communication, use 'backpack' or 'rucksack'. Use 'mochila' only if you are certain your audience will understand the cultural nuance, or if you are specifically referring to a style of bag associated with Spanish-speaking cultures.
A backpack or rucksack, typically used for carrying books, supplies, or personal items.
Mochila is usually informal, regional in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “No common English idioms feature 'mochila'”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a MOuse CHEwing on a LAtch of a backpack – MO-CHI-LA.
Conceptual Metaphor
CONTAINER FOR CARRYING ESSENTIALS (similar to backpack).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'mochila' MOST likely to be used and understood in English?