Billete vs. boleto vs. pasaje vs. entrada
In Spanish, there are different words for 'ticket', each of which corresponds to different situations or usages. These words include 'billete', 'boleto', 'pasaje', and 'entrada'. The correct usage largely depends on the region and context.
Billete
'Billete' usually refers to a ticket for long-distance travel or a banknote.
Compré un billete de avión para viajar a Madrid.
(I purchased an airplane ticket to travel to Madrid.)
Este billete de diez euros está roto.
(This ten euro banknote is torn.)
Boleto
'Boleto' often refers to a ticket used for public transportation or lottery tickets in some countries. In Latin America, it can also mean a theater or movie ticket.
Necesito un boleto para el autobús.
(I need a bus ticket.)
Compré un boleto de lotería y gané el premio mayor.
(I bought a lottery ticket and won the jackpot.)
Pasaje
'Pasaje' typically refers to a passage, journey or a fare, but it can also be used for ticket especially in some South American countries.
El pasaje a Buenos Aires es muy caro durante la temporada alta.
(The fare for Buenos Aires is very expensive during high season.)
¿Cuánto cuesta el pasaje por barco?
(How much is the boat ticket?)
Entrada
'Entrada' generally refers to an admission ticket or entry pass, particularly for events such as shows, concerts, or movies.
Compré una entrada para el concierto de Coldplay.
(I bought a ticket for the Coldplay concert.)
¿Dónde podemos comprar las entradas para el cine?
(Where can we buy movie tickets?)
Summary
'Billete', 'boleto', 'pasaje', and 'entrada' all can be translated as 'ticket' in English. However, they are used in different contexts. While 'billete' often implies long distance journeys or banknotes, 'boleto' usually means tickets for public transportation or lottery. On the other hand, 'pasaje' can refer to either a journey or fare but also used as tickets in some regions, while 'entrada' typically means admission tickets.