Usage Note
Espalda refers to the back of a human body. A espaldas de alguien means 'behind someone's back' (figuratively). The plural espaldas is used for 'back' in many set phrases: dar la espalda (to turn one's back). Do not confuse with espaldar (backrest of a chair) or dorso (used in formal/anatomical contexts).
Examples
"Le duele mucho la espalda."
Natural Translation
His back hurts a lot.
Literal Translation
To-him hurts a-lot the back.
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