What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
quebrada
Example
The hikers followed the quebrada until they reached the waterfall. [quebrada: noun]
Example
The quebrada was dry during the summer months. [quebrada: adjective]
canyon
Example
The Grand Canyon is one of the most famous canyons in the world. [canyon: noun]
Example
The hikers had to climb up the canyon walls to reach the top. [canyon: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Canyon is more commonly used than quebrada in everyday language, especially in English-speaking countries. Canyon is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while quebrada is more specific and less known outside of Latin America.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between quebrada and canyon?
Both quebrada and canyon are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.