la lata

the can

Example Sentence

Abrí una lata de atún para el almuerzo.

I opened a can of tuna for lunch.

Meaning

La lata is a can (a metal container) used for foods like tuna. It is common in pantry shopping and quick lunches.

Common Phrases

  • una lata de atun — a can of tuna
  • abrir una lata — to open a can

Example

Compre una lata de atun para hoy.

I bought a can of tuna for today.

Common Mistake

Do not confuse una lata (a can) with lata in the expression que lata (what a nuisance). In the supermarket, una lata de is the safe, practical pattern.