Manija vs. manilla vs. picaporte vs. pomo
While the Spanish words 'manija', 'manilla', 'picaporte', and 'pomo' all denote a handle or knob, particularly of a door, they can still differ slightly in terms of their usage and regional dialects. Some countries prefer one over the other based on the style and design of the handle or knob.
Manija
This word is used in certain regions to refer to door handles, especially those that are lever-like and are pushed down to open.
La manija de la puerta está rota.
(The door handle is broken.)
Aprieta la manija para que puedas abrir la puerta.
(Press down the handle so you can open the door.)
Manilla
Manilla is also used for door handles. However, it is a more common term used in Spain compared to Latin American countries.
Por favor, no gires la manilla cuando el bebé duerme.
(Please do not turn the handle when the baby is sleeping.)
La manilla de esta puerta es muy antigua.
(The handle of this door is very old.)
Picaporte
'Picaporte' usually refers to doorknobs that need to be turned to open, and it can also refer to a latch mechanism of a door.
El picaporte de mi habitación no funciona bien.
(My room's doorknob is not working properly.)
Al girar el picaporte, noté que la puerta estaba sin cerradura.
(Upon turning the doorknob, I noticed the door was unlocked.)
Pomo
This word is commonly used for spherical-shaped door knobs where you need to twist the knob to open the door. It can also refer to shift knobs in motor vehicles.
Este pomo es muy suave y fácil de girar.
(This knob is very smooth and easy to turn.)
El pomo del cambio de marchas está bastante gastado.
(The gear shift knob is quite worn out.)
Summary
In summary, while 'manija', 'manilla', 'picaporte', and 'pomo' all refer to a handle or knob, particularly of doors, each carries subtle implications about type and design based on regional dialects. Manija and Manilla often denote handles that you push down on, with Manilla being more common in Spain. Picaporte often refers to traditional turnable door handles or latches, while Pomo typically describes spherical doorknobs.