spanish: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
A1Neutral
Quick answer
What does “spanish” mean?
Relating to Spain, its people, or the language spoken there.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Relating to Spain, its people, or the language spoken there.
Can refer to the people of Spain collectively (the Spanish), the language (Spanish), or cultural elements originating from Spain or the Spanish-speaking world.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in core meaning. The idiom 'Spanish practices' (meaning restrictive workplace customs) is primarily British.
Connotations
Generally neutral, though in some contexts may evoke stereotypes (e.g., passion, fiesta, siesta).
Frequency
Equally common in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “spanish” in a Sentence
[the] + Spanish (for people)[speak/learn/study] + Spanish[adjective] + Spanish + nounVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “spanish” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- We enjoyed a traditional Spanish meal.
- She has a beautiful Spanish accent.
- The Spanish government made an announcement.
American English
- He bought a Spanish-language textbook.
- They visited the Spanish quarter of the city.
- That's a classic Spanish guitar.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Refers to markets, trade, or business practices in Spain or Spanish-speaking countries.
Academic
Used in linguistics, history, cultural studies, and language learning contexts.
Everyday
Common in travel, food, language, and cultural discussions.
Technical
In linguistics, refers to the Romance language; in botany, 'Spanish moss' (Tillandsia usneoides).
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “spanish”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “spanish”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “spanish”
- Not capitalizing (e.g., 'spanish').
- Using 'Spanish' as a plural noun without 'the' (e.g., 'Spanish are friendly' instead of 'The Spanish are friendly').
- Confusing 'Spanish' with 'Hispanic' or 'Latino'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, because it is derived from a proper noun (Spain).
'Spanish' refers specifically to Spain, its people, or language. 'Hispanic' broadly relates to Spanish-speaking countries or cultures, especially in the Americas.
No, the language name is uncountable. Use 'varieties of Spanish' or 'Spanish dialects'.
In English, 'Spanish' is the general term. 'Castilian' (castellano) often specifies the standard variety from Spain or contrasts with other languages of Spain (e.g., Catalan).
Relating to Spain, its people, or the language spoken there.
Spanish is usually neutral in register.
Spanish: in British English it is pronounced /ˈspænɪʃ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈspænɪʃ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Spanish practices (UK: restrictive workplace customs)”
- “Spanish Inquisition (historical, or unexpected rigorous questioning)”
- “walk Spanish (archaic: to be forced to leave)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'Spain' with '-ish' added, like 'English' or 'British', to form the adjective and language name.
Conceptual Metaphor
Spanish is often metaphorically linked to warmth, passion, and rhythm (e.g., 'Spanish passion', 'Spanish rhythm').
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is a correct usage?