River
A smaller stream or creek, sometimes one that is dry for part of the year.
A small river or rivulet; a more literary or specific term than 'arroyo'.
A stream or creek, especially one in a ravine or mountainous area. Very common in the Andes.
The river is very big.
There is a bridge over the river.
The river's water is cold.
We walked next to the stream.
The word 'río' is the standard and universally understood term for 'river' across all Spanish-speaking countries.
While 'río' is used for rivers, the word 'quebrada' is extremely common for a smaller stream or creek, especially one in a ravine or mountainous area.
'Arroyo' is frequently used for a stream or creek, which may be seasonal or dry for part of the year.
'Río' is the standard term. 'Arroyo' is also used for a stream, just as in Latin America. There are no significant differences from the standard.
Using the wrong gender. 'Río' is a masculine noun, so it's always 'el río' (the river) or 'un río' (a river). A common mistake is saying 'la río'.
Pronunciation of the 'r'. The 'r' at the beginning of 'río' is a strong, tapped sound, similar to the 'dd' in the American English word 'ladder'. Many learners use a soft English 'r', which sounds incorrect.
Confusing 'río' (river) with 'rio' (he/she laughed). The accent mark is crucial. 'Río' (REE-oh) has the stress on the 'i', while 'rio' (ree-OH) from the verb 'reír' (to laugh) has the stress on the 'o'.
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