Navaja suiza vs. cortaplumas
The Spanish language, like many others, has multiple words for similar objects, offering nuanced descriptions based on context or regional usage. 'Navaja suiza' and 'cortaplumas' both refer to a type of small versatile folding knife but their usage can vary.
Navaja suiza
This term literally translates as 'Swiss Knife'. This word is often used to describe a multi-tool pocketknife, more specifically, the Swiss Army knife. The Swiss Army knife is popular worldwide for its versatility and practicality.
Siempre llevo una navaja suiza en mi mochila cuando voy de campamento.
(I always carry a Swiss Army knife in my backpack when I go camping.)
La navaja suiza es un instrumento muy útil que puede ayudarte en situaciones de emergencia.
(The Swiss Army knife is a very useful tool that can help you in emergency situations.)
Cortaplumas
'Cortaplumas' also refers to a small folding knife or a penknife. It originally referred to devices used for cutting feathers into quills for writing. The term does not specifically imply the additional tools associated with a Swiss Army knife.
Su abuelo le regaló un cortaplumas antiguo.
(His grandfather gave him an antique penknife.)
El cortaplumas es parte esencial del equipo de todo explorador.
(The penknife is an essential part of every explorer's equipment.)
Summary
'Navaja suiza' and 'cortaplumas' both refer to versatile foldable knives used in various situations. While 'navaja suiza' implies a multi-tool pocketknife specifically referencing the Swiss Army Knife, 'cortaplumas' refers more generally to a foldable or penknife without necessarily including additional tools.