Intermediate Spanish
Express experiences and opinions more clearly with 250 intermediate Spanish words, English meanings, and contextual examples.
At B1, you can move beyond immediate needs and explain experiences, choices, feelings, and opinions. Use the examples to observe the combinations Spanish speakers naturally build around each term.
Narrate experiences, sequence events, and explain why something happened.
event; incident
La policía investigó un suceso extraño cerca de la estación.
The police investigated a strange incident near the station.
Usage note Suceso refers to something that happens, especially an event worth reporting.
plot
La trama de la novela se complica en el último capítulo.
The plot of the novel becomes more complicated in the final chapter.
Usage note Use trama for the sequence of events in a novel, film, or play.
main character; protagonist
El protagonista abandona su pueblo para buscar trabajo.
The main character leaves his town to look for work.
Usage note The ending -ista has the same form for masculine and feminine; the article shows gender.
ending; end
No voy a contarte el final de la película.
I'm not going to tell you the ending of the movie.
Usage note El final is the ending; la final is the final match or competition.
reason; motive
Nunca explicó el motivo de su marcha repentina.
He never explained the reason for his sudden departure.
Usage note Motivo de introduces the cause or reason for an action or situation.
reaction
Su reacción al recibir la noticia nos sorprendió.
Her reaction to receiving the news surprised us.
Usage note Use reacción a or reacción ante to name what produces the response.
coincidence
Fue una coincidencia que los dos llegáramos en el mismo tren.
It was a coincidence that we both arrived on the same train.
Usage note Fue una coincidencia que normally takes the subjunctive when the event is evaluated.
experience
Mi primera experiencia viviendo solo me enseñó a ser responsable.
My first experience living alone taught me to be responsible.
Usage note Experiencia is countable for a particular event and uncountable for accumulated knowledge.
to narrate; to tell
La testigo narró con calma todo lo que había visto.
The witness calmly described everything she had seen.
Usage note Narrar is more formal than contar and focuses on presenting events in order.
to happen
Nadie sabe exactamente qué sucedió aquella noche.
No one knows exactly what happened that night.
Usage note Suceder is commonly used in the third person for events: sucede or sucedió.
to find out about
Me enteré de la boda por una foto en las redes sociales.
I found out about the wedding through a photo on social media.
Usage note Enterarse always keeps the reflexive pronoun and normally takes de before the information.
to discover; to find out
Al abrir la carta, descubrió que había ganado el concurso.
When she opened the letter, she found out that she had won the contest.
Usage note The past participle is irregular: descubierto, not descubrido.
to continue
Después de una breve pausa, continuamos contando la historia.
After a short break, we continued telling the story.
Usage note Continuar can be followed by a gerund or by con plus a noun.
to interrupt
Perdona que te interrumpa, pero falta un detalle importante.
Sorry to interrupt you, but an important detail is missing.
Usage note A direct object names the person or activity interrupted; que te interrumpa uses the subjunctive after perdona que.
to recognize; to admit
Reconocí a Marta por su forma de caminar.
I recognized Marta by the way she walked.
Usage note The first-person present has -zc-: reconozco; context distinguishes recognize from admit.
to disappear
El gato desapareció durante dos días y volvió hambriento.
The cat disappeared for two days and came back hungry.
Usage note Like conocer, desaparecer adds -zc- in desaparezco and throughout the present subjunctive.
unexpected
Un encuentro inesperado cambió nuestros planes para la tarde.
An unexpected encounter changed our plans for the afternoon.
Usage note Place inesperado after the noun in neutral descriptions; it agrees in gender and number.
strange; odd
Oímos un ruido extraño detrás de la puerta.
We heard a strange noise behind the door.
Usage note As an adjective, extraño means strange; as a verb form, extraño means I miss.
memorable
Aquella conversación fue memorable por la sinceridad de todos.
That conversation was memorable because everyone spoke so honestly.
Usage note Memorable has one singular form for both genders and adds -s in the plural.
previous; earlier
En el capítulo anterior, los personajes todavía no se conocían.
In the previous chapter, the characters still did not know each other.
Usage note Anterior normally follows the noun and uses a single form for masculine and feminine.
suddenly
Íbamos por el bosque cuando, de pronto, empezó a granizar.
We were walking through the woods when it suddenly started to hail.
Usage note De pronto introduces a sudden event and is close in meaning to de repente.
meanwhile
Yo preparaba la cena; mientras tanto, Lucía ponía la mesa.
I was making dinner; meanwhile, Lucía was setting the table.
Usage note Mientras tanto links two actions happening during the same period.
finally; at last
Tras varios intentos, por fin conseguimos abrir la caja.
After several attempts, we finally managed to open the box.
Usage note Por fin often conveys relief that a long-awaited result has occurred.
at first; at the beginning
Al principio no confiaba en él, pero luego cambié de opinión.
At first I didn't trust him, but later I changed my mind.
Usage note Al principio contrasts an initial situation with what happened later.
right afterward
Sonó una alarma y, justo después, se apagaron todas las luces.
An alarm went off, and right afterward all the lights went out.
Usage note Justo intensifies después and indicates that very little time passed between events.
Handle trips, describe routes, and explain common changes or difficulties.
customs
Al llegar al país, tuvimos que declarar el equipo en la aduana.
When we arrived in the country, we had to declare the equipment at customs.
Usage note Aduana is the place or authority that checks goods entering or leaving a country.
passport
Mi pasaporte caduca en junio, así que debo renovarlo pronto.
My passport expires in June, so I need to renew it soon.
Usage note Use renovar el pasaporte for getting a new valid passport before or after expiry.
flight
Nuestro vuelo a Lima sale de la puerta veintidós.
Our flight to Lima leaves from gate twenty-two.
Usage note Common combinations include vuelo directo, vuelo de ida, and vuelo de regreso.
seat
Pedí un asiento junto a la ventana para ver la costa.
I asked for a window seat so I could see the coast.
Usage note In travel contexts, junto a la ventana and junto al pasillo specify the seat location.
brochure; leaflet
El folleto del museo incluye un plano y los precios.
The museum brochure includes a map and the prices.
Usage note A folleto is a short printed publication that provides practical or promotional information.
guided tour
La visita guiada del castillo dura aproximadamente una hora.
The guided tour of the castle lasts about an hour.
Usage note Use visita guiada de or por a place; the guide explains the site during the visit.
sign; signal
Una señal azul indicaba el camino hacia el camping.
A blue sign pointed out the way to the campground.
Usage note Señal is feminine despite ending in a consonant; context determines sign, signal, or indication.
way; path; road
El camino que bordea el lago es más largo, pero también más bonito.
The path around the lake is longer, but it is also more beautiful.
Usage note Camino can be a physical path or the route used to reach a destination.
to travel through; to cover
Recorrimos la isla en autobús durante cinco días.
We traveled around the island by bus for five days.
Usage note Recorrer takes the route or area directly, without a preposition: recorrer la isla.
to land
El avión aterrizó con veinte minutos de retraso.
The plane landed twenty minutes late.
Usage note The spelling changes from z to c before e in forms such as aterrice.
to take off
No podremos despegar hasta que mejore el tiempo.
We won't be able to take off until the weather improves.
Usage note For aircraft, despegar is the opposite of aterrizar; the subjunctive form is despegue.
to board
Los pasajeros empezaron a embarcar por la puerta siete.
The passengers began boarding at gate seven.
Usage note Embarcar is used for boarding a plane or ship; the preterite yo form is embarqué.
to cancel
La compañía canceló la excursión porque no había suficientes participantes.
The company canceled the excursion because there were not enough participants.
Usage note Cancelar is transitive: the canceled booking, service, or event follows the verb directly.
to rent; to hire
Alquilamos una furgoneta para recorrer la costa.
We rented a van to travel along the coast.
Usage note Alquilar can mean to rent something from someone or to rent something out; context clarifies direction.
to get lost
Nos perdimos en el casco antiguo porque varias calles no tenían nombre.
We got lost in the old town because several streets had no names.
Usage note Keep the reflexive pronoun; me he perdido is also a natural way to say I am lost now.
to approach; to come closer
Nos acercamos a la oficina de turismo para pedir un plano.
We went over to the tourist office to ask for a map.
Usage note Acercarse takes a before the destination; acercar without se means to bring something closer.
tourist; touristy
Buscábamos un pueblo tranquilo, no un lugar demasiado turístico.
We were looking for a quiet town, not an overly touristy place.
Usage note Turístico describes something intended for tourists or a place visited by many tourists.
comfortable; convenient
El tren nocturno es cómodo y nos ahorra una noche de hotel.
The night train is comfortable and saves us a night in a hotel.
Usage note Cómodo can describe physical comfort or a practical, convenient option.
delayed; late
El vuelo está retrasado por una tormenta sobre Madrid.
The flight is delayed because of a storm over Madrid.
Usage note For transport, estar retrasado means to be running late or delayed.
distant; faraway
Desde aquí se ven los picos lejanos cubiertos de nieve.
From here you can see the distant peaks covered in snow.
Usage note Lejano often describes distant places, times, or memories and normally follows the noun.
fortunately; luckily
Perdimos el último autobús, pero por suerte encontramos un taxi.
We missed the last bus, but fortunately we found a taxi.
Usage note Por suerte introduces a favorable fact that improves a difficult situation.
in advance
Conviene comprar las entradas con antelación durante el verano.
It is a good idea to buy the tickets in advance during the summer.
Usage note Con antelación means before the relevant date or time, often for bookings and planning.
on the way
Paramos a comer de camino a Granada.
We stopped to eat on the way to Granada.
Usage note Use de camino a before a destination; ir de camino means to be on one's way.
as soon as one arrives
Nada más llegar al hotel, dejamos las maletas y salimos.
As soon as we arrived at the hotel, we left our bags and went out.
Usage note Nada más plus an infinitive expresses that the next action happens immediately afterward.
on time; in time
Corrimos hasta el andén y llegamos a tiempo para subir al tren.
We ran to the platform and arrived in time to board the train.
Usage note Llegar a tiempo can mean before it is too late as well as at the scheduled time.
Discuss trust, disagreements, support, and how people treat one another.
friendship
Nuestra amistad empezó cuando compartimos piso en Salamanca.
Our friendship began when we shared an apartment in Salamanca.
Usage note Amistad describes the relationship; una amistad can also refer to a particular friend or connection.
trust; confidence
Se necesita tiempo para recuperar la confianza después de una mentira.
It takes time to regain trust after a lie.
Usage note Confianza en alguien is trust in someone; tener confianza can also mean feeling self-confident.
support
El apoyo de mis compañeros fue fundamental durante la enfermedad.
The support of my coworkers was essential during my illness.
Usage note Apoyo may be emotional, practical, or financial; the common verb is dar apoyo or apoyar.
advice; piece of advice
Seguí tu consejo y hablé directamente con ella.
I took your advice and spoke to her directly.
Usage note Consejo is countable in Spanish; dar un consejo means to give someone a piece of advice.
argument; discussion
La discusión terminó cuando ambos aceptaron escuchar al otro.
The argument ended when they both agreed to listen to each other.
Usage note Depending on context, discusión can be a heated argument or a serious discussion.
disagreement
Tenemos un desacuerdo sobre cómo repartir los gastos.
We disagree about how to divide the expenses.
Usage note Estar en desacuerdo con alguien or sobre algo expresses disagreement.
relationship
Mantiene una buena relación con sus antiguos vecinos.
She has a good relationship with her former neighbors.
Usage note Relación con names the person involved; it can be romantic, personal, or professional.
personality; character
Aunque tiene un carácter fuerte, sabe reconocer sus errores.
Although he has a strong personality, he knows how to admit his mistakes.
Usage note The plural caracteres moves the stress and has no written accent.
to trust; to rely on
Confío en Ana porque siempre cumple lo que promete.
I trust Ana because she always does what she promises.
Usage note Confiar requires en before the person or thing trusted; several forms keep the written accent.
to support
Sus amigos la apoyaron cuando decidió cambiar de carrera.
Her friends supported her when she decided to change careers.
Usage note Apoyar a una persona means to give support; apoyar algo can also mean to rest it against a surface.
to argue; to discuss
Mis hermanos discutieron sobre quién debía lavar los platos.
My siblings argued about who should wash the dishes.
Usage note Discutir con alguien sobre algo can describe either an argument or a debate.
to forgive
Le costó perdonar a su amigo por revelar el secreto.
It was hard for him to forgive his friend for revealing the secret.
Usage note Use the personal a with the person forgiven and por before the reason.
to encourage; to cheer up
Mi hermana me animó a presentar el proyecto al concurso.
My sister encouraged me to submit the project to the contest.
Usage note Animar a alguien a plus an infinitive means to encourage that person to act.
to miss
Desde que vivo lejos, echo de menos las comidas familiares del domingo.
Since moving far away, I miss our Sunday family meals.
Usage note Echar de menos is standard in Spain; extrañar is common with the same meaning in Latin America.
to complain
Los vecinos se quejaron del ruido hasta altas horas.
The neighbors complained about the noise late into the night.
Usage note Quejarse de introduces the problem; quejarse a names the person or organization receiving the complaint.
to behave
Los niños se comportaron muy bien durante la ceremonia.
The children behaved very well during the ceremony.
Usage note Comportarse is reflexive and is commonly modified by bien or mal.
sincere; honest
Fue sincera conmigo y me dijo por qué estaba molesta.
She was honest with me and told me why she was upset.
Usage note Ser sincero con alguien means to speak honestly to that person.
jealous
Se puso celoso al ver que su pareja hablaba con su ex.
He became jealous when he saw his partner talking to her ex.
Usage note Estar or ponerse celoso describes jealousy; celoso de identifies its cause.
understanding
Mi jefa fue comprensiva cuando le expliqué el problema familiar.
My boss was understanding when I explained the family problem to her.
Usage note A person who is comprensivo tries to understand other people's difficulties and feelings.
disappointed
Quedamos decepcionados porque cancelaron el concierto sin avisar.
We were disappointed because they canceled the concert without warning.
Usage note Estar decepcionado con someone or por something expresses disappointment.
frankly; honestly
Francamente, creo que deberías pedirle disculpas.
Frankly, I think you should apologize to her.
Usage note Francamente introduces a direct, honest opinion and can sound firm depending on tone.
despite; in spite of
A pesar de la discusión, decidieron seguir trabajando juntos.
Despite the argument, they decided to keep working together.
Usage note A pesar de precedes a noun or infinitive; a pesar de que introduces a conjugated clause.
accidentally; without meaning to
Rompí tu taza sin querer mientras limpiaba la cocina.
I accidentally broke your mug while I was cleaning the kitchen.
Usage note Sin querer makes clear that an action was not intentional.
as for me; for my part
Por mi parte, estoy dispuesto a olvidar lo ocurrido.
As for me, I'm willing to forget what happened.
Usage note The possessive changes with the speaker; the phrase marks one person's position or contribution.
on the contrary
No me molestó su comentario; al contrario, me hizo reflexionar.
Her comment didn't bother me; on the contrary, it made me think.
Usage note Al contrario corrects an idea by stating that the opposite is true.
Talk about applications, employment conditions, and everyday responsibilities at work.
position; job
La empresa ofrece un puesto de atención al cliente.
The company is offering a customer service position.
Usage note Puesto de trabajo means a job position; puesto can also mean a stand or a place assigned to someone.
interview
Tengo una entrevista de trabajo el jueves por la mañana.
I have a job interview on Thursday morning.
Usage note Common phrases are entrevista de trabajo, hacer una entrevista, and entrevistar a someone.
résumé; CV
Actualicé el currículum antes de enviarlo a la empresa.
I updated my résumé before sending it to the company.
Usage note Currículum often means currículum vítae; the common plural is currículums.
contract
Lee todas las condiciones antes de firmar el contrato.
Read all the terms before signing the contract.
Usage note A work contract may be temporal or indefinido; firmar un contrato makes it official.
salary; pay
El sueldo se paga el último día laborable del mes.
The salary is paid on the last working day of the month.
Usage note Sueldo is regular pay from employment; salario is a close, slightly more formal synonym.
shift; turn
Esta semana me toca el turno de noche en el hospital.
This week I am working the night shift at the hospital.
Usage note Turno de mañana, tarde, or noche refers to a work shift; me toca indicates whose turn it is.
deadline; time limit
El plazo para presentar la solicitud termina el viernes.
The deadline for submitting the application is Friday.
Usage note Dentro del plazo means within the allowed period; fuera de plazo means too late.
responsibility
Una de mis responsabilidades es formar a los empleados nuevos.
One of my responsibilities is training new employees.
Usage note Tener la responsabilidad de plus an infinitive identifies a duty assigned to someone.
to apply for; to request
Para solicitar la beca, debes completar este formulario.
To apply for the scholarship, you must complete this form.
Usage note Solicitar is formal and takes the requested job, document, or service as its direct object.
to hire
El hotel contratará a veinte personas para la temporada de verano.
The hotel will hire twenty people for the summer season.
Usage note Use the personal a before the person hired; the participle contratado also means employed.
to dismiss; to fire
Despidieron al director por incumplir las normas de seguridad.
They fired the manager for breaking the safety rules.
Usage note Despedir a alguien can mean to fire them; despedirse de means to say goodbye to them.
to be in charge of
Marta se encarga de organizar los viajes del equipo.
Marta is in charge of organizing the team's travel.
Usage note The reflexive pronoun and de are required; a noun or infinitive follows de.
to fulfill; to meet
Terminamos el informe a tiempo y cumplimos el plazo acordado.
We finished the report on time and met the agreed deadline.
Usage note Cumplir un plazo, una promesa, or un requisito means to meet or fulfill it.
to collaborate; to work together
Los dos departamentos colaboran en el desarrollo del producto.
The two departments are working together on product development.
Usage note Colaborar con names a person or group; colaborar en introduces the shared activity.
to resign; to give up
Renunció a su empleo para cuidar a su padre.
She resigned from her job to take care of her father.
Usage note Renunciar a is required before a job, right, opportunity, or thing given up.
to sign
Ambas partes firmaron el acuerdo después de negociar los horarios.
Both parties signed the agreement after negotiating the schedules.
Usage note Firmar can mean to write a signature or to formally enter into an agreement.
permanent
Tras seis meses de prueba, le ofrecieron un contrato permanente.
After a six-month trial period, they offered her a permanent contract.
Usage note Permanente has the same singular form for both genders and contrasts with temporal.
temporary
Aceptó un empleo temporal mientras terminaba sus estudios.
He took a temporary job while he finished his studies.
Usage note Temporal describes work or arrangements limited to a particular period.
responsible; in charge
Clara es responsable de revisar las cuentas cada semana.
Clara is responsible for reviewing the accounts every week.
Usage note Ser responsable de names a duty; el or la responsable can mean the person in charge.
in-person; face-to-face
La primera reunión será presencial y las demás se harán por videollamada.
The first meeting will be in person, and the others will be held by video call.
Usage note Presencial contrasts with virtual or a distancia for work, classes, and services.
generally; as a rule
Por lo general, el equipo termina la jornada a las cinco.
The team generally finishes work at five.
Usage note Por lo general introduces what normally happens while allowing possible exceptions.
full-time
Busco un trabajo a tiempo completo con un horario estable.
I'm looking for a full-time job with a stable schedule.
Usage note Trabajar a tiempo completo means to work the standard full number of weekly hours.
part-time
Trabaja a tiempo parcial para poder asistir a clase por las tardes.
She works part-time so she can attend classes in the afternoons.
Usage note A tiempo parcial describes work with fewer hours than a full-time position.
self-employed; independently
Después de dejar la agencia, empezó a trabajar por cuenta propia.
After leaving the agency, he started working for himself.
Usage note Trabajar por cuenta propia means not being employed by another person or company.
on leave; off sick
La recepcionista está de baja por una lesión en la espalda.
The receptionist is on sick leave because of a back injury.
Usage note Estar de baja means to be officially away from work; darse de baja can also mean to cancel a service.
Describe study strategies, progress, difficulties, and achievable objectives.
learning
El aprendizaje de un idioma exige contacto frecuente con la lengua.
Learning a language requires frequent exposure to it.
Usage note Aprendizaje refers to the process or result of learning; aprendizaje de introduces the subject.
knowledge
El curso requiere conocimientos básicos de informática.
The course requires basic computer skills.
Usage note The plural conocimientos often means a body of knowledge or skills in a particular field.
skill; ability
Negociar con calma es una habilidad que se aprende con la práctica.
Negotiating calmly is a skill that can be learned through practice.
Usage note Habilidad para plus an infinitive names the activity someone is skilled at.
progress
La profesora notó un gran progreso en mi pronunciación.
The teacher noticed great progress in my pronunciation.
Usage note Progreso is often singular in general statements; hacer progresos emphasizes individual advances.
goal; target
Mi meta es mantener una conversación de diez minutos sin traducir.
My goal is to hold a ten-minute conversation without translating.
Usage note Alcanzar una meta means to achieve a goal; meta can also mean the finish line in a race.
effort
Todo el esfuerzo que puso en el proyecto tuvo buenos resultados.
All the effort she put into the project produced good results.
Usage note Hacer un esfuerzo is to make an effort; poner esfuerzo en algo emphasizes dedication.
mistake; error
Revisé el cálculo y encontré un error en la última línea.
I checked the calculation and found a mistake in the last line.
Usage note Cometer un error is the standard combination for making a mistake.
doubt; question
Si tienes alguna duda sobre el ejercicio, escríbeme.
If you have any questions about the exercise, write to me.
Usage note Tener una duda often means to have a question, while poner en duda means to question a claim.
to review
Antes del examen, repasé las fechas más importantes del tema.
Before the exam, I reviewed the most important dates in the unit.
Usage note Repasar means to study material again, not simply to look at it for the first time.
to memorize
En lugar de memorizar la regla, intenta usarla en varias frases.
Instead of memorizing the rule, try using it in several sentences.
Usage note The spelling changes from z to c before e in memoricé and memorice.
to consult; to look up
Consulté el diccionario para comprobar el significado de la palabra.
I looked up the word in the dictionary to check its meaning.
Usage note Consultar un diccionario or una fuente takes no preposition before the resource.
to summarize
¿Puedes resumir el artículo en tres o cuatro frases?
Can you summarize the article in three or four sentences?
Usage note Resumir condenses the main ideas; resumen is the related noun.
to correct
La tutora corrigió mi redacción y explicó cada cambio.
The tutor corrected my essay and explained each change.
Usage note Corregir changes g to j before a or o in forms such as corrijo and corrija.
to make progress; to move forward
Avanzamos más rápido cuando dividimos el trabajo en tareas pequeñas.
We made faster progress when we divided the work into small tasks.
Usage note Avanzar can describe physical movement or progress toward an academic or practical goal.
to concentrate
Me cuesta concentrarme si hay conversaciones cerca.
I find it hard to concentrate when people are talking nearby.
Usage note Concentrarse en names the task receiving attention; the reflexive pronoun is required.
to achieve; to manage to
Después de practicar varios meses, logró hablar en público sin miedo.
After practicing for several months, she managed to speak in public without fear.
Usage note Lograr plus an infinitive emphasizes successfully achieving a difficult result.
consistent; persistent
Ha sido constante con sus estudios y practica un poco cada día.
He has been consistent with his studies and practices a little every day.
Usage note A constante effort or person continues regularly instead of stopping and starting.
capable; able
Ya soy capaz de entender las noticias sin leer los subtítulos.
I am now able to understand the news without reading the subtitles.
Usage note Ser capaz de plus an infinitive expresses having the ability to do something.
practical; hands-on
El taller incluye un ejercicio práctico sobre primeros auxilios.
The workshop includes a practical exercise on first aid.
Usage note Práctico describes something useful in real situations or based on active practice.
academic
Necesito mejorar mi vocabulario académico antes de empezar la carrera.
I need to improve my academic vocabulary before starting my degree.
Usage note Académico relates to formal study, schools, universities, or scholarly work.
little by little; gradually
Poco a poco, dejó de traducir mentalmente cada palabra.
Little by little, she stopped translating every word in her head.
Usage note Poco a poco presents progress as gradual and made through small stages.
for example
Algunos verbos, por ejemplo «poner», cambian de significado con una preposición.
Some verbs—for example, poner—change meaning with a preposition.
Usage note Por ejemplo introduces a specific case that illustrates a general statement.
in summary; in short
En resumen, el informe propone tres cambios en el programa.
In summary, the report proposes three changes to the program.
Usage note En resumen introduces a brief statement of the most important points.
more and more; increasingly
Me resulta cada vez más fácil seguir conversaciones rápidas.
I find it easier and easier to follow fast conversations.
Usage note Cada vez más describes a quality or action that increases progressively over time.
as long as; provided that
Puedes entregar el trabajo el lunes, siempre que me avises hoy.
You may submit the assignment on Monday as long as you let me know today.
Usage note When it means provided that, siempre que introduces a condition and takes the subjunctive.
Present viewpoints, react to claims, and organize a balanced conversation.
point of view
Entiendo tu punto de vista, aunque no comparto tu conclusión.
I understand your point of view, although I don't share your conclusion.
Usage note Punto de vista keeps de vista unchanged in the plural: los puntos de vista.
argument; reason
Su principal argumento es que el cambio reduciría los costes.
Her main argument is that the change would reduce costs.
Usage note An argumento is a reason supporting a position; it can also mean a work's plot outline.
advantage
La mayor ventaja de vivir aquí es poder ir andando al trabajo.
The biggest advantage of living here is being able to walk to work.
Usage note Ventaja de introduces the option or feature that provides a benefit.
drawback; inconvenience
El único inconveniente del piso es que no tiene ascensor.
The apartment's only drawback is that it has no elevator.
Usage note Inconveniente often means a negative aspect or practical problem, not only an inconvenience.
agreement
Después de dos horas de conversación, llegaron a un acuerdo.
After two hours of discussion, they reached an agreement.
Usage note Llegar a un acuerdo is the standard expression for reaching an agreement.
criticism; review
El director aceptó la crítica y prometió revisar el procedimiento.
The manager accepted the criticism and promised to review the procedure.
Usage note Crítica can be negative feedback or a published review; context determines the meaning.
rumor
La empresa negó el rumor de que iba a cerrar la fábrica.
The company denied the rumor that it was going to close the factory.
Usage note El rumor de que introduces unconfirmed information; correr un rumor means a rumor is circulating.
truth
Al final decidió contar la verdad sobre lo ocurrido.
In the end, she decided to tell the truth about what had happened.
Usage note Decir or contar la verdad means to tell the truth; es verdad que introduces a fact.
to think; to express an opinion
Muchos vecinos opinan que la plaza necesita más árboles.
Many residents think the square needs more trees.
Usage note Opinar que introduces an opinion; unlike pensar, opinar specifically signals a viewpoint.
to deny
El jugador negó haber roto las reglas del torneo.
The player denied having broken the tournament rules.
Usage note Negar can be followed by a noun, an infinitive, or que plus a clause.
to state; to claim
La autora afirma que todos los personajes están basados en personas reales.
The author states that all the characters are based on real people.
Usage note Afirmar que presents a statement confidently, without necessarily proving it.
to comment; to mention
El médico comentó que los resultados llegarían la semana siguiente.
The doctor mentioned that the results would arrive the following week.
Usage note Comentar que can introduce information mentioned in conversation, not only an opinion.
to notify; to warn
Avísame si cambias de horario para que pueda organizarme.
Let me know if you change your schedule so I can plan accordingly.
Usage note Avisar a alguien de algo means to notify them; avisar que also introduces the message.
to convince
Me convenció de que la opción más sencilla era también la mejor.
She convinced me that the simplest option was also the best one.
Usage note Convencer a alguien de que introduces the idea the person comes to accept.
to recommend
Te recomiendo que compares los precios antes de decidir.
I recommend that you compare prices before deciding.
Usage note Recomendar que takes the subjunctive when one person recommends an action to another.
to admit; to acknowledge
Admitió que no había leído el documento completo.
He admitted that he had not read the entire document.
Usage note Admitir que acknowledges a fact, often one that is difficult or unfavorable.
convincing
La propuesta es interesante, pero necesita una explicación más convincente.
The proposal is interesting, but it needs a more convincing explanation.
Usage note Convincente describes an argument or person that successfully makes others believe something.
doubtful; questionable
La noticia procede de una fuente dudosa y no está confirmada.
The news comes from a questionable source and has not been confirmed.
Usage note Dudoso can describe uncertain facts or something whose reliability is questionable.
reasonable
Me parece razonable aplazar la decisión hasta conocer los datos.
It seems reasonable to me to postpone the decision until we know the facts.
Usage note Razonable describes something sensible, fair, or within acceptable limits.
controversial
La nueva norma es polémica porque afecta a los pequeños negocios.
The new rule is controversial because it affects small businesses.
Usage note Polémico describes an issue that produces strong disagreement or public debate.
in my opinion
En mi opinión, el ayuntamiento debería consultar a los residentes.
In my opinion, the city council should consult the residents.
Usage note The possessive changes with the speaker or person whose view is being presented.
however
El plan parecía sencillo; sin embargo, surgieron varios problemas.
The plan seemed simple; however, several problems arose.
Usage note Sin embargo introduces a contrast with the preceding statement and is often set off by commas.
on the one hand
Por un lado, mudarme me permitiría estar más cerca de mi familia.
On the one hand, moving would allow me to be closer to my family.
Usage note Por un lado opens one side of a comparison, often followed later by por otro lado.
on the other hand; moreover
Por otro lado, el nuevo puesto ofrece mejores oportunidades profesionales.
On the other hand, the new position offers better career opportunities.
Usage note Por otro lado presents another aspect, which may contrast with or add to the first.
actually; in fact
Creíamos que era una protesta, pero en realidad celebraban una victoria.
We thought it was a protest, but they were actually celebrating a victory.
Usage note En realidad corrects an assumption by presenting what is truly the case.
Manage payments, complaints, repairs, loans, and practical service issues.
bill; invoice
La factura de la luz fue mucho más alta este mes.
The electricity bill was much higher this month.
Usage note A factura lists what must be paid for goods or services; factura de specifies the service.
receipt
Guarda el recibo por si necesitas cambiar el abrigo.
Keep the receipt in case you need to exchange the coat.
Usage note A recibo proves a payment; a factura may instead request or detail payment.
bank account
El alquiler se carga automáticamente en mi cuenta bancaria.
The rent is charged automatically to my bank account.
Usage note Abrir, cerrar, or tener una cuenta bancaria are standard combinations.
deposit; income
Hice un ingreso de doscientos euros en la cuenta del club.
I deposited two hundred euros into the club's account.
Usage note Ingreso can be money paid into an account or income received over a period.
return; refund
La tienda aceptó la devolución y me reintegró el importe completo.
The store accepted the return and refunded me the full amount.
Usage note Devolución can refer to returning an item or to the money refunded.
warranty; guarantee
La reparación está cubierta por la garantía del fabricante.
The repair is covered by the manufacturer's warranty.
Usage note Estar cubierto por la garantía means the seller or maker is responsible for the fault.
complaint
Presentamos una queja formal por el mal estado de la habitación.
We filed a formal complaint about the poor condition of the room.
Usage note Presentar or poner una queja is more formal than simply quejarse.
repair
La reparación de la calefacción tardará al menos dos días.
The heating repair will take at least two days.
Usage note Reparación de identifies the object or system being repaired.
to complain; to claim
Llamé a la compañía para reclamar el dinero que me cobraron de más.
I called the company to claim the money they overcharged me.
Usage note Reclamar can demand a right, refund, or solution; reclamar por introduces the cause of a complaint.
to fill in; to fill out
Debe rellenar este formulario con sus datos de contacto.
You must fill out this form with your contact details.
Usage note Rellenar un formulario is widely used; completar un formulario is a common alternative.
to charge; to collect; to get paid
El técnico no nos cobró la visita porque el aparato seguía en garantía.
The technician didn't charge us for the visit because the appliance was still under warranty.
Usage note Cobrar can mean receiving wages or charging someone an amount; context shows who receives the money.
to lend
¿Me prestas tu cargador hasta que termine la reunión?
Can you lend me your charger until the meeting ends?
Usage note Prestar gives something temporarily to another person; the indirect object identifies the borrower.
to borrow
Tuve que pedir prestado un coche mientras reparaban el mío.
I had to borrow a car while mine was being repaired.
Usage note The borrowed item agrees with prestado: pedir prestada una bicicleta, pedir prestados unos libros.
to save
Estamos ahorrando para pagar la entrada de un piso.
We are saving to pay the down payment on an apartment.
Usage note Ahorrar dinero means not spending it; ahorrar para introduces the purpose of the savings.
to spend
Gasté demasiado dinero en reparaciones el mes pasado.
I spent too much money on repairs last month.
Usage note Gastar dinero en names what the money is spent on; gastar can also mean to use up a resource.
to solve; to resolve
Atención al cliente resolvió el problema en una sola llamada.
Customer service solved the problem in a single call.
Usage note The past participle is irregular: resuelto; resolver is used for problems, doubts, and conflicts.
faulty; defective
Me enviaron un producto defectuoso que ni siquiera se enciende.
They sent me a faulty product that won't even turn on.
Usage note Defectuoso describes an item that does not work correctly because of a defect.
unpaid; overdue
El banco me avisó de que había un recibo impagado.
The bank notified me that there was an unpaid bill.
Usage note Impagado describes a debt, bill, or amount that has not been paid when due.
urgent
Necesitamos una reparación urgente porque sale agua del techo.
We need an urgent repair because water is coming through the ceiling.
Usage note Urgente has the same form for both genders and describes something requiring immediate attention.
free of charge
El servicio de instalación es gratuito si compras el electrodoméstico aquí.
The installation service is free if you buy the appliance here.
Usage note Gratuito is a more formal adjective than gratis and agrees with the noun.
in cash
El fontanero pidió que le pagáramos en efectivo.
The plumber asked us to pay him in cash.
Usage note Pagar en efectivo contrasts with paying by card or bank transfer.
by card
En este mercado se puede pagar con tarjeta a partir de cinco euros.
At this market, you can pay by card on purchases of five euros or more.
Usage note Pagar con tarjeta refers to using a debit or credit card.
right away; very soon
El encargado vino enseguida y nos ofreció otra habitación.
The manager came right away and offered us another room.
Usage note Enseguida may mean immediately or after a very short wait, depending on context.
by mistake
Me cobraron dos veces la misma compra por error.
They charged me twice for the same purchase by mistake.
Usage note Por error explains that an incorrect action was accidental rather than intentional.
unless
No aceptarán la devolución a menos que presentes el recibo.
They won't accept the return unless you show the receipt.
Usage note A menos que introduces an exception or negative condition and takes the subjunctive.
Describe symptoms, treatment, recovery, and habits that affect health.
symptom
La pérdida del olfato puede ser un síntoma de varias infecciones.
Loss of smell can be a symptom of several infections.
Usage note Síntoma is masculine despite ending in -a; síntoma de introduces a possible condition.
wound; injury
La enfermera limpió la herida y la cubrió con una venda.
The nurse cleaned the wound and covered it with a bandage.
Usage note Herida usually means a break or damage to the skin; lesión is broader.
treatment
El tratamiento dura seis semanas y requiere controles frecuentes.
The treatment lasts six weeks and requires frequent checkups.
Usage note Seguir un tratamiento means to undergo or follow the treatment prescribed.
doctor's office; consultation
El médico atiende en la consulta de la segunda planta.
The doctor sees patients in the office on the second floor.
Usage note Consulta can mean the room, the appointment itself, or a question asked of a professional.
health insurance
Mi seguro médico cubre las urgencias, pero no el dentista.
My health insurance covers emergency care, but not dental care.
Usage note Cubrir is commonly used for the services and costs included by insurance.
diet
La nutricionista le recomendó una dieta rica en hierro.
The nutritionist recommended a diet rich in iron.
Usage note Dieta means a usual or prescribed eating plan, not necessarily a weight-loss diet.
rest; break
Dormir bien es tan importante como el descanso durante el día.
Sleeping well is as important as taking breaks during the day.
Usage note Descanso can refer to restorative rest or a scheduled break from an activity.
stress
El estrés del trabajo le estaba causando problemas de sueño.
Work-related stress was causing him sleep problems.
Usage note Estrés is normally singular; reducir el estrés and sufrir estrés are common combinations.
to recover; to heal
La herida se curó sin necesidad de antibióticos.
The wound healed without the need for antibiotics.
Usage note Curarse can describe a person recovering or a wound healing; curar without se means to treat or cure.
to avoid; to prevent
Procura evitar el sol durante las horas de más calor.
Try to avoid the sun during the hottest part of the day.
Usage note Evitar can take a noun or infinitive directly, without de.
to reduce
Caminar a diario ayuda a reducir el riesgo de enfermedades cardíacas.
Walking every day helps reduce the risk of heart disease.
Usage note The present yo form is reduzco and the preterite stem is reduj-.
to recover
Necesitó varias semanas para recuperarse de la operación.
She needed several weeks to recover from the operation.
Usage note Recuperarse de introduces the illness, injury, or difficult experience.
to lose weight; to slim down
Ha adelgazado desde que empezó a cocinar más en casa.
He has lost weight since he started cooking at home more often.
Usage note Adelgazar is intransitive for losing weight; adelgazar algo means to make it thinner.
to gain weight
Engordé un poco mientras estuve sin hacer ejercicio.
I gained a little weight while I wasn't exercising.
Usage note Engordar is the common opposite of adelgazar and does not require a reflexive pronoun.
to cough
Empezó a toser después de respirar el humo.
She started coughing after breathing in the smoke.
Usage note Toser is the verb; la tos is the noun for a cough.
to sneeze
Siempre estornudo cuando hay mucho polvo en la habitación.
I always sneeze when there is a lot of dust in the room.
Usage note Estornudar is normally intransitive; un estornudo is one sneeze.
healthy
Intento mantener un equilibrio saludable entre el trabajo y el descanso.
I try to maintain a healthy balance between work and rest.
Usage note Saludable describes habits or things that promote health; sano can also describe a healthy person.
sore; aching
Después de la caminata tenía los músculos doloridos.
After the hike, my muscles were sore.
Usage note Dolorido describes a body part that aches, often after effort or an injury.
weak
Todavía se siente débil y se cansa al subir escaleras.
She still feels weak and gets tired when climbing stairs.
Usage note Débil has one form for both genders; the plural is débiles.
exhausted
Llegué agotada después de trabajar doce horas seguidas.
I arrived exhausted after working for twelve hours straight.
Usage note Agotado is stronger than cansado and can also mean that a supply is sold out or depleted.
from time to time
Me duele la espalda de vez en cuando, sobre todo al conducir.
My back hurts from time to time, especially when I drive.
Usage note De vez en cuando describes something occasional, less frequent than a menudo.
that's why; therefore
El medicamento causa sueño; por eso no debes conducir.
The medication causes drowsiness, so you shouldn't drive.
Usage note Por eso introduces a consequence of the fact just mentioned.
on an empty stomach; fasting
Para este análisis de sangre tienes que venir en ayunas.
You have to come fasting for this blood test.
Usage note Estar or venir en ayunas means not having eaten, usually for a medical test.
to rest; to remain on bed rest
El médico le indicó que guardara reposo durante cuarenta y ocho horas.
The doctor told him to rest for forty-eight hours.
Usage note Guardar reposo is a medical expression meaning to limit activity so the body can recover.
discharged; officially cleared
Le dieron de alta del hospital el martes por la mañana.
She was discharged from the hospital on Tuesday morning.
Usage note Dar de alta means to discharge a patient; el alta is the official medical release.
Use devices, manage files, publish information, and discuss safe online activity.
file
El archivo es demasiado grande para enviarlo como adjunto.
The file is too large to send as an attachment.
Usage note Archivo usually means a digital file in technology and an archive in institutional contexts.
folder
Guardé las fotografías del viaje en una carpeta nueva.
I saved the trip photos in a new folder.
Usage note Carpeta means a digital folder as well as a physical folder for papers.
link
El enlace de la videollamada aparece al final del mensaje.
The video call link appears at the end of the message.
Usage note Hacer clic en un enlace opens the page or resource it points to.
keyboard
Este teclado permite escribir la ñ sin cambiar la configuración.
This keyboard lets you type ñ without changing the settings.
Usage note Teclado is a computer keyboard; tecla is one individual key.
network; internet
La impresora está conectada a la misma red que el ordenador.
The printer is connected to the same network as the computer.
Usage note Red can mean a computer network; las redes sociales means social media.
connection
La conexión a internet se interrumpe cada vez que llueve fuerte.
The internet connection drops whenever it rains heavily.
Usage note Conexión a internet names internet access; perder la conexión means to be disconnected.
app; application
La aplicación calcula cuánto tiempo pasas delante de la pantalla.
The app calculates how much time you spend in front of the screen.
Usage note In technology, aplicación is often shortened informally to app.
privacy
Revisa las opciones de privacidad antes de publicar tu perfil.
Check the privacy settings before making your profile public.
Usage note Privacidad is generally uncountable and refers to control over personal information or private life.
to delete; to erase
Borré el mensaje por accidente antes de poder responder.
I accidentally deleted the message before I could reply.
Usage note Borrar is used for deleting digital content and erasing writing or marks.
to connect; to log on
No puedo conectarme a la red del hotel desde mi portátil.
I can't connect to the hotel's network from my laptop.
Usage note Conectarse a names the network, service, or meeting being accessed.
to publish; to post
El periódico publicó la entrevista completa en su página web.
The newspaper published the full interview on its website.
Usage note Publicar covers formal publication and posting content online; the preterite yo form is publiqué.
to check; to verify
Comprueba que la dirección sea correcta antes de enviar el paquete.
Check that the address is correct before sending the package.
Usage note Comprobar que verifies a fact; many speakers use the subjunctive when the fact has not yet been confirmed.
to update
Debes actualizar el sistema para corregir el problema de seguridad.
You need to update the system to fix the security issue.
Usage note Actualizar brings software or information up to date; z changes to c before e.
to install
Instalé el programa, pero todavía no he creado una cuenta.
I installed the program, but I haven't created an account yet.
Usage note Instalar is used for software, devices, and equipment that are set up for use.
to attach
Adjunto una copia de la factura a este correo.
I'm attaching a copy of the invoice to this email.
Usage note Adjuntar un archivo means to add it to an email or message; adjunto may also mean attached.
to print
Solo imprimimos el documento cuando necesitamos una copia firmada.
We only print the document when we need a signed copy.
Usage note Both impreso and imprimido are accepted participles; impreso is especially common as an adjective.
reliable
Consulta una fuente fiable antes de compartir esa información.
Check a reliable source before sharing that information.
Usage note Fiable describes a person, source, or system that can be trusted.
digital
Pedí una copia digital para no perder el documento original.
I asked for a digital copy so I wouldn't lose the original document.
Usage note Digital has one form for both genders and refers to electronic data or technology.
wireless
Los auriculares inalámbricos se conectan mediante Bluetooth.
The wireless headphones connect via Bluetooth.
Usage note Inalámbrico literally means without wires and agrees with the noun it modifies.
compatible
Esta versión no es compatible con los teléfonos más antiguos.
This version is not compatible with older phones.
Usage note Ser compatible con means to work correctly with a device, system, or format.
offline
Descargué el mapa para poder consultarlo sin conexión.
I downloaded the map so I could use it offline.
Usage note Sin conexión indicates that internet or network access is not available or required.
live
La radio transmitirá el debate en directo desde el teatro.
The radio will broadcast the debate live from the theater.
Usage note En directo describes content broadcast at the same time that it happens.
step by step
El tutorial explica paso a paso cómo recuperar la contraseña.
The tutorial explains step by step how to recover the password.
Usage note Paso a paso presents a process as an ordered sequence of manageable actions.
safely; securely
La página permite realizar pagos de forma segura.
The website allows users to make payments securely.
Usage note De forma segura can refer to avoiding physical danger or protecting data and transactions.
by email
Recibirás la confirmación de la compra por correo electrónico.
You will receive the purchase confirmation by email.
Usage note Por correo electrónico identifies email as the method used to send or receive something.
Discuss local services, civic participation, consumption, and practical environmental action.
city council; town hall
El ayuntamiento ha abierto una oficina de atención al ciudadano.
The city council has opened a citizen services office.
Usage note Ayuntamiento can refer to the local government or the building where it operates.
neighborhood
En mi barrio organizan un mercado de productores cada sábado.
My neighborhood holds a farmers' market every Saturday.
Usage note Barrio is a district or neighborhood within a town or city.
community
La biblioteca funciona como punto de encuentro para toda la comunidad.
The library serves as a meeting place for the whole community.
Usage note Comunidad may be a social group, a residential community, or an administrative region.
citizen
Cualquier ciudadano puede asistir a las reuniones públicas del consejo.
Any citizen can attend the council's public meetings.
Usage note The feminine is ciudadana; ciudadanía is the collective concept of citizenship.
volunteering; volunteer work
Empecé un voluntariado para acompañar a personas mayores que viven solas.
I started volunteering to spend time with older people who live alone.
Usage note Voluntariado refers to unpaid organized activity; voluntario or voluntaria names a volunteer.
association; organization
La asociación vecinal pidió más iluminación para el parque.
The neighborhood association requested better lighting for the park.
Usage note An asociación is an organized group formed around shared interests or aims.
public service
El acceso al agua potable es un servicio público esencial.
Access to drinking water is an essential public service.
Usage note Servicios públicos include facilities and services provided for the population.
public transportation
Mejorar el transporte público reduciría el número de coches en el centro.
Improving public transportation would reduce the number of cars downtown.
Usage note Transporte público is generally singular as a system, although individual services can be plural.
traffic
El tráfico aumenta a primera hora de la mañana y al final de la tarde.
Traffic increases early in the morning and late in the afternoon.
Usage note Tráfico is uncountable for road traffic; atasco refers to a traffic jam.
pollution
La contaminación del aire empeora cuando apenas hay viento.
Air pollution gets worse when there is hardly any wind.
Usage note Contaminación de or contaminación del identifies the affected environment or source.
recycling
El edificio tiene un espacio común para el reciclaje de vidrio y cartón.
The building has a shared area for recycling glass and cardboard.
Usage note Reciclaje is the process; reciclar is the action performed on materials.
waste material; residue
Los residuos electrónicos no deben tirarse con la basura doméstica.
Electronic waste should not be thrown out with household trash.
Usage note The plural residuos commonly refers to waste materials requiring collection or treatment.
consumption
El nuevo contador muestra el consumo diario de electricidad.
The new meter shows daily electricity consumption.
Usage note Consumo de identifies the resource or product used; reducir el consumo means to use less.
to recycle
En casa reciclamos las latas, el papel y los envases de plástico.
At home we recycle cans, paper, and plastic containers.
Usage note Reciclar takes the material or object directly and means processing it for reuse.
to participate; to take part
Más de cien personas participaron en la limpieza de la playa.
More than one hundred people took part in the beach cleanup.
Usage note Participar en introduces the event, activity, or project.
to protect
Plantaron árboles para proteger las casas del viento fuerte.
They planted trees to protect the houses from strong winds.
Usage note Proteger a or proteger algo de names who is protected and from what; g changes to j before a or o.
to pollute; to contaminate
Los vertidos de la fábrica contaminaron el agua del río.
Waste from the factory polluted the river water.
Usage note Contaminar describes making air, water, soil, or another substance harmful or impure.
to separate; to sort
Antes de reciclar, hay que separar el vidrio del resto de los residuos.
Before recycling, you have to separate the glass from the rest of the waste.
Usage note Separar algo de otra cosa keeps materials or objects in different groups.
to make use of; to take advantage of
Aprovechamos el agua de lluvia para regar el jardín.
We use collected rainwater to water the garden.
Usage note Aprovechar uses an available resource, time, or opportunity well.
to belong to
Este terreno pertenece al municipio y no se puede vender.
This land belongs to the municipality and cannot be sold.
Usage note Pertenecer requires a before the owner or group; the first-person form is pertenezco.
supportive; charitable
El barrio organizó una campaña solidaria para ayudar a las familias afectadas.
The neighborhood organized a charity campaign to help the affected families.
Usage note Solidario describes people or actions that support others, especially those facing difficulties.
sustainable
La cooperativa promueve una agricultura sostenible que protege el suelo.
The cooperative promotes sustainable farming that protects the soil.
Usage note Sostenible describes practices that can continue without exhausting resources or causing lasting harm.
local
Comprar productos locales reduce la distancia que recorre la comida.
Buying local products reduces the distance food travels.
Usage note As an adjective, local has one form for both genders; as a noun, un local is a business premises.
in the long term
A largo plazo, aislar mejor las viviendas permite ahorrar energía.
In the long term, better home insulation saves energy.
Usage note A largo plazo evaluates effects over an extended period and contrasts with a corto plazo.
because of that; as a result
El depósito estaba dañado y, debido a ello, se perdieron miles de litros.
The tank was damaged, and as a result, thousands of liters were lost.
Usage note Debido a ello refers back to a previously stated cause and introduces its consequence.