“anginas”
Meaning: Sore throat / tonsillitis (lay usage); asthma or breathlessness (Puerto Rico, Colombia, Venezuela)
Formal Clinical Spanish
dolor de garganta, amigdalitis / asma, falta de aire
Regional Usage
Mexicoanginas • me duelen las anginas
Caribbeanangina • anginas
Across regionsdolor de garganta • anginas (tonsils)
Critical Translation Trap
In lay speech 'angina(s)' can mean a sore throat or tonsillitis, and in Puerto Rico, Colombia, and Venezuela asthma or breathlessness. Ask chest, throat, or breathing before assuming angina pectoris.
Clinical & Cultural Notes
- In lay speech 'angina(s)' can mean a sore throat or tonsillitis.
- Tonsils are called 'anginas' colloquially across most regions.
- In Puerto Rico, Colombia, and Venezuela, 'angina' can also mean asthma or breathlessness (ASALE): 'tengo angina' may mean trouble breathing, not chest pain.
- Clarify chest, throat, or breathing: '¿Le duele el pecho o la garganta, o le falta el aire?'
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