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B1 noun #1,500 am häufigsten 11 Min. Lesezeit

descripción

Top 1,500

At the A1 level, you will encounter the word 'descripción' as a way to talk about basic things. You might use it to describe your house, your family, or your favorite food. At this stage, the most important thing is to remember that it is a feminine word, so you say 'la descripción' or 'una descripción'. You will often use it with simple verbs like 'es' (is) or 'tiene' (has). For example, 'La descripción de mi casa es: tiene tres habitaciones'. You should also learn that it ends in -ción, which is a common ending for feminine nouns in Spanish. Don't worry too much about complex grammar yet; just focus on using it to give basic information about the world around you. You might see this word in your first Spanish textbooks when the teacher asks you to 'hacer una descripción' of a picture. It is a very useful word for beginners because it helps you start communicating about the physical world. Remember to pronounce the 'ción' part like 'thyon' in Spain or 'syon' in Latin America, with the stress on the last syllable. Even at this early stage, try to remember the accent mark on the 'o' when you write it, as it is a good habit to form early on.

At the A2 level, you are starting to use 'descripción' in more varied contexts. You might use it to talk about people's appearances or to describe your daily routine in more detail. You will likely use adjectives to make your descriptions more interesting, such as 'una descripción corta' (a short description) or 'una descripción clara' (a clear description). At this level, you should also be aware of the plural form, 'descripciones', and remember that the accent mark disappears. This is a key rule for words ending in -ción. You might encounter this word in travel contexts, like reading a 'descripción de un hotel' or a 'descripción de un lugar turístico'. You are also starting to use the verb 'hacer' more frequently with this noun, as in '¿Puedes hacer una descripción de tu mejor amigo?'. You should be able to understand a simple written description of an object and identify its main features. This word is a building block for your growing ability to narrate and describe in the past and present tenses. Practice using it to link different pieces of information together, making your Spanish sound more cohesive and less like a list of isolated sentences.

At the B1 level, 'descripción' becomes a tool for more nuanced communication. You are expected to provide more detailed accounts of events, experiences, and even abstract ideas. You will use more sophisticated adjectives like 'detallada' (detailed), 'precisa' (precise), or 'vaga' (vague). You might use 'descripción' in professional or academic settings, such as writing a 'descripción de un problema' at work or a 'descripción de un experimento' in class. You should be comfortable using the word in various tenses and with different prepositions. For example, 'Según la descripción que nos diste, el lugar es muy bonito'. At this level, you are also starting to distinguish between 'descripción' and similar words like 'explicación' or 'resumen'. You might hear it in news reports or read it in more complex articles. You should be able to follow a relatively long description of a person or a process and pick out specific details. This is also the level where you should be very careful with the spelling and the pluralization rules, as mistakes in these areas are less acceptable than at the A1 or A2 levels. Using 'descripción' effectively allows you to participate more fully in conversations and to express your opinions and observations with greater clarity.

At the B2 level, you use 'descripción' with a high degree of precision and variety. You can provide complex descriptions of hypothetical situations, technical processes, or intricate social dynamics. You might use phrases like 'una descripción pormenorizada' (a minute/detailed description) or 'una descripción exhaustiva' (an exhaustive description). You are aware of the stylistic impact of your descriptions and can use them to influence the listener or reader. For example, in a persuasive essay, you might use a vivid 'descripción' to evoke emotion. You are also familiar with the word's use in different registers, from the very formal 'descripción técnica' to the more casual 'descripción de mi fin de semana'. At this level, you should be able to understand and use 'descripción' in idiomatic expressions or more literary contexts. You can also compare and contrast different descriptions of the same event, identifying biases or differences in perspective. Your ability to use 'descripción' is now integrated with a wide range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, allowing you to create rich, detailed, and accurate accounts of almost any subject. You are also more likely to use the word in the context of 'descripción de cargos' (job descriptions) or other professional documentation, showing your readiness for a Spanish-speaking work environment.

At the C1 level, your use of 'descripción' is sophisticated and nuanced. You can use it to discuss complex philosophical concepts, intricate literary techniques, or highly specialized scientific data. You might analyze the 'descripción' in a novel as a form of 'ecfrasis' (the verbal representation of a visual work of art). You are comfortable using the word in academic papers, formal reports, and high-level professional discussions. You can use synonyms like 'semblanza', 'bosquejo', or 'caracterización' with ease, choosing the one that best fits the specific context and tone. Your descriptions are not just accurate but also stylistically appropriate and engaging. You can handle 'descripciones' that involve complex metaphors, subtle irony, or technical jargon. You are also able to critique the quality of a 'descripción', noting where it might be lacking in detail or where it might be overly verbose. At this level, 'descripción' is not just a word you use; it is a concept you manipulate to achieve specific communicative goals. You understand the historical and cultural connotations of the word and can use it to navigate complex social and professional situations in the Spanish-speaking world with confidence and finesse.

At the C2 level, you have a complete mastery of the word 'descripción' and all its nuances. You can use it with the precision of a native speaker in any context, from the most technical to the most poetic. You are aware of the word's etymology and its evolution in the Spanish language. You can use it in highly specialized fields like law, medicine, or advanced linguistics with absolute accuracy. You can produce 'descripciones' that are masterpieces of clarity, evocative power, and stylistic elegance. You can also analyze the role of 'descripción' in the history of Spanish literature, from the detailed chronicles of the Indies to the avant-garde experiments of the 20th century. You are comfortable using the word in its most abstract senses, such as the 'descripción de un sistema' in mathematics or philosophy. Your use of 'descripción' is indistinguishable from that of an educated native speaker, and you can use it to express the most subtle shades of meaning. You are also able to use the word in complex wordplay or sophisticated rhetorical structures. At this level, 'descripción' is a versatile tool in your extensive linguistic repertoire, allowing you to communicate with profound depth and absolute precision in any situation.

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A feminine noun used to provide details about the characteristics of people, places, or things.
Commonly paired with the verb 'hacer' (to make) and requires feminine adjectives.
The plural form 'descripciones' drops the accent mark found in the singular 'descripción'.
Essential in many contexts, including literature, law, medicine, and daily conversation.

The Spanish word descripción is a fundamental noun that translates directly to 'description' in English. At its core, it refers to the act of representing something through language, whether spoken or written, to create a mental image or a conceptual understanding for the listener or reader. In the Spanish-speaking world, this word carries a significant weight in both everyday conversation and formal documentation. It is derived from the Latin 'descriptio', which implies a 'marking out' or 'sketching'. When you use this word, you are essentially asking for or providing the specific characteristics, qualities, or features of a person, place, object, or event. It is a tool of precision. For instance, in a legal context, a descripción de los hechos (description of the facts) is crucial for a fair trial. In a romantic context, a descripción de tu pareja ideal (description of your ideal partner) helps convey deep personal desires. The word is versatile because it can range from a simple list of physical traits to a complex, evocative literary passage that captures the essence of a feeling or a landscape.

Physical Appearance: Used when identifying someone or something based on visual cues like height, color, and shape.

Technical Specifications: Common in manuals or product listings to detail how a machine or software functions.

Literary Device: A stylistic technique used by authors to immerse the reader in the setting or the character's psyche.

El testigo dio una descripción muy detallada del sospechoso a la policía.

La descripción del producto en el sitio web no coincidía con lo que recibí.

En su novela, el autor utiliza una descripción vívida para pintar el paisaje andaluz.

Necesito una descripción clara de tus síntomas para poder ayudarte.

La descripción del puesto de trabajo incluye muchas responsabilidades administrativas.

Beyond the literal, descripción is also used in academic and scientific fields. In biology, a descripción de especie involves a rigorous cataloging of biological markers. In geography, it refers to the mapping and detailing of terrain. The power of a good descripción lies in its ability to bridge the gap between the observer's experience and the listener's imagination. Without it, communication would be vague and prone to misunderstanding. It is the 'how' and 'what' that gives substance to the 'who' and 'where'. In Spanish culture, which often values expressive and detailed storytelling, mastering the art of the descripción is key to social integration and effective communication.

Using descripción correctly involves understanding its grammatical role as a noun and the verbs that typically accompany it. The most common verb used with this noun is hacer (to make/do). When you want to describe something, you say hacer una descripción. Other frequent verbs include dar (to give), proporcionar (to provide), and leer (to read). Because it is a feminine noun, you must always use feminine articles and adjectives. For example, 'una descripción precisa' (a precise description) or 'la descripción completa' (the complete description). It is also important to note the preposition de (of) which usually follows the word to indicate what is being described.

With Adjectives of Quality: 'Una descripción pormenorizada' (A detailed/minute description) is used in formal or investigative contexts.

In Professional Settings: 'La descripción del cargo' refers to a job description, outlining duties and requirements.

In Creative Writing: 'Una descripción lírica' refers to a poetic or highly aesthetic representation of something.

Por favor, haz una descripción breve de lo que pasó ayer.

La descripción técnica del manual es bastante difícil de entender.

Me gustaría leer la descripción del menú antes de pedir la comida.

Ella hizo una descripción tan buena que sentí que estaba allí.

No olvides incluir una descripción de tus habilidades en el currículum.

In more advanced usage, you might encounter the phrase más allá de toda descripción, which means 'beyond all description'—used when something is so incredible or terrible that words fail to capture it. Another useful structure is según la descripción (according to the description), which is used when comparing a real object or person to a previously provided account. Understanding these patterns allows you to move beyond simple identification and start using Spanish to provide nuance and detail in your narratives. Whether you are describing a sunset in Ibiza or a technical bug in a software program, the word descripción provides the structural framework for your explanation.

The word descripción is ubiquitous in Spanish-speaking societies, appearing in a wide array of contexts from the mundane to the highly specialized. One of the most common places you will hear it is in the news or during police reports. When a crime occurs, the anchor will often say, 'La policía ha difundido una descripción del sospechoso' (The police have released a description of the suspect). This highlights the word's role in public safety and identification. Similarly, in the world of real estate and commerce, you will find it on every listing. Whether you are looking at an apartment in Madrid or a house in Buenos Aires, the section titled descripción del inmueble will provide the vital details about the number of rooms, the square footage, and the amenities.

Online Shopping: Websites like Amazon or Mercado Libre always have a 'descripción del producto' section.

Human Resources: In job interviews, you might be asked to provide a 'descripción de tu experiencia previa'.

Tourism and Travel: Guidebooks and travel blogs rely heavily on 'descripciones' of landmarks and local culture.

La descripción de la película en la cartelera me pareció muy interesante.

En el museo, cada cuadro tiene una pequeña descripción al lado.

Escuché una descripción del concierto en la radio y sonaba increíble.

La descripción del clima para el fin de semana no es muy alentadora.

El médico anotó una descripción de mis dolencias en mi historial clínico.

In educational settings, teachers frequently ask students to write a descripción of a historical event or a scientific process. This helps students develop their vocabulary and logical structuring of thoughts. In literature, the 'descripción' is what brings the story to life; without the detailed accounts of the characters' surroundings, the narrative would feel hollow. Even in everyday life, when you are telling a friend about a new person you met, you are providing a descripción. It is a word that facilitates human connection by allowing us to share our perceptions of the world with others. Whether it is a formal report or a casual chat, descripción is the bridge that carries information from one mind to another.

Learning to use descripción correctly involves avoiding several common pitfalls that even intermediate learners often encounter. The most frequent mistake is related to orthography, specifically the accent mark. In Spanish, words ending in -ción always carry an accent on the 'o' in their singular form. However, when these words become plural, the stress remains on the same syllable, but because the word now ends in 's' and is 'llana' (stressed on the penultimate syllable), the accent mark is no longer required. Therefore, writing 'descripciónes' with an accent is a major error. It must be descripciones. Another common error is gender confusion. Because the word ends in -ción, it is always feminine. Learners sometimes mistakenly use 'el descripción' or 'un descripción', which is grammatically incorrect.

Spelling Error: Writing 'descripcion' without the accent mark in the singular form.

Pluralization Error: Keeping the accent mark in 'descripciones' (incorrect: descripciónes).

Gender Mismatch: Using masculine articles or adjectives (incorrect: un descripción bueno).

Incorrecto: El descripción es muy largo. (Correcto: La descripción es muy larga).

Incorrecto: Tengo muchas descripciónes. (Correcto: Tengo muchas descripciones).

Incorrecto: Haz una descripcion rapida. (Correcto: Haz una descripción rápida).

Incorrecto: La descripción del sospechoso fue impreciso. (Correcto: La descripción fue imprecisa).

Incorrecto: No me gusta este descripción. (Correcto: No me gusta esta descripción).

Furthermore, some learners struggle with the choice of verbs. While 'hacer una descripción' is perfectly fine, more advanced speakers might use 'esbozar una descripción' (to sketch a description) or 'detallar una descripción' (to detail a description). Using the same verb repeatedly can make your Spanish sound repetitive. Another subtle mistake is the placement of adjectives. In Spanish, adjectives usually follow the noun, so it should be 'descripción detallada' rather than 'detallada descripción', although the latter can be used in poetic contexts for emphasis. Finally, ensure that you are using the word in the right context; if you are talking about a story or a narrative, 'relato' or 'narración' might be more appropriate than 'descripción', depending on whether you are focusing on the events or the qualities of the setting.

While descripción is the most general and widely used term, Spanish offers a rich variety of synonyms and related words that can provide more specific meaning depending on the context. Understanding these alternatives will help you sound more like a native speaker and allow you to express yourself with greater precision. For example, if you are describing a person's physical and psychological traits in a literary way, you might use retrato (portrait) or semblanza (biographical sketch). If you are providing a quick, rough outline of something, bosquejo or croquis might be more appropriate. In a more technical or detailed context, especificación or detalle are often used to refer to the individual components of a description.

Retrato vs. Descripción: 'Retrato' is specifically for people, often including character traits, while 'descripción' can be for anything.

Reseña vs. Descripción: 'Reseña' is a review or a summary that often includes an opinion, whereas 'descripción' is meant to be objective.

Explicación vs. Descripción: 'Explicación' focuses on the 'why' and 'how', while 'descripción' focuses on the 'what' and 'what it is like'.

El autor hizo una semblanza conmovedora de su abuelo en el prólogo.

Solo necesito un bosquejo general del plan, no todos los detalles todavía.

La reseña del libro en el periódico fue muy positiva.

El ingeniero proporcionó las especificaciones técnicas del nuevo motor.

Hizo un pormenor de todos los gastos del viaje.

Other words to consider include caracterización, which is used when describing the unique traits of a character in a play or movie, and representación, which can refer to a visual or symbolic description. If you are talking about a physical layout, you might use plano or mapa. In the digital world, metadatos (metadata) are essentially descriptions of data. By learning these nuances, you can tailor your language to the specific situation. For instance, using 'semblanza' instead of 'descripción' when talking about a respected historical figure shows a higher level of cultural and linguistic awareness. Ultimately, while 'descripción' is your reliable go-to word, these alternatives allow you to paint with a much broader and more colorful linguistic palette.

How Formal Is It?

Formell

"Se requiere una descripción pormenorizada de los activos de la empresa."

Neutral

"La descripción del libro en la contraportada es muy buena."

Informell

"Oye, hazme una descripción rápida de cómo es el chico nuevo."

Child friendly

"Dibuja una descripción de tu juguete favorito."

Umgangssprache

"Esa descripción está de locos, ¡qué buena!"

Wusstest du?

The root 'scribere' is also the source of many other common Spanish words like 'escribir' (to write), 'escritorio' (desk), and 'escribano' (scribe/notary).

Aussprachehilfe

UK /des.kɾip.ˈθjon/

US /des.kɾip.ˈsjon/

The stress is on the last syllable: des-crip-CIÓN.

Reimt sich auf

Canción Acción Lección Pasión Relación Atención Dirección Emoción

Häufige Fehler

Pronouncing the 'r' like an English 'r' instead of a Spanish tap.
Putting the stress on the second-to-last syllable (des-CRIP-cion).
Forgetting to pronounce the 'p' clearly.
In Latin America, pronouncing the 'c' as 'sh' instead of 's'.
Merging the 'i' and 'o' into a single vowel sound instead of a diphthong.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 2/5

The word is very similar to its English cognate, making it easy to recognize in text.

Schreiben 4/5

The accent mark in the singular and its removal in the plural can be tricky for learners.

Sprechen 3/5

The 'ción' ending requires practice to master the correct Spanish pronunciation (th/s).

Hören 2/5

It is a common word that is usually pronounced clearly in most contexts.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

Escribir Cosa Persona Detalle Palabra

Als Nächstes lernen

Describir Característica Adjetivo Narración Resumen

Fortgeschritten

Ecfrasis Semblanza Pormenorizar Exhaustivo Fidedigno

Wichtige Grammatik

Nouns ending in -ción are feminine.

La descripción, la canción, la relación.

Words ending in -ción lose the accent mark in the plural.

Descripción -> descripciones.

Adjectives must agree in gender and number with the noun they modify.

Una descripción detallada, unas descripciones detalladas.

The preposition 'de' is used to link the noun 'descripción' with the object being described.

La descripción de la casa.

The verb 'hacer' is the most common light verb used with 'descripción'.

Voy a hacer una descripción del problema.

Beispiele nach Niveau

La descripción de mi gato es: es pequeño y blanco.

The description of my cat is: it is small and white.

Use 'la' because 'descripción' is feminine.

Haz una descripción de tu casa.

Make a description of your house.

The verb 'hacer' is commonly used with 'descripción'.

Esta es una descripción corta de mi familia.

This is a short description of my family.

Adjectives like 'corta' must agree in gender with 'descripción'.

La descripción del libro es interesante.

The description of the book is interesting.

'Interesante' is an adjective that works for both genders.

¿Tienes una descripción del juguete?

Do you have a description of the toy?

Use 'una' for an indefinite description.

La descripción de la clase es a las diez.

The description of the class is at ten.

Here, it refers to the details or syllabus of the class.

Escribe una descripción de tu ciudad.

Write a description of your city.

The imperative 'escribe' is often followed by 'una descripción'.

No entiendo la descripción del menú.

I don't understand the description of the menu.

Use 'la' for a specific description.

El profesor pidió una descripción de nuestras vacaciones.

The teacher asked for a description of our vacations.

The verb 'pedir' (to ask for) is common here.

Leí las descripciones de los hoteles en internet.

I read the descriptions of the hotels on the internet.

Note that 'descripciones' (plural) has no accent mark.

La descripción del sospechoso era muy clara.

The description of the suspect was very clear.

The imperfect 'era' is used for past descriptions.

Necesito una descripción más detallada del producto.

I need a more detailed description of the product.

'Más detallada' adds more information to the noun.

La descripción de la película me convenció de verla.

The description of the movie convinced me to see it.

The noun 'descripción' acts as the subject here.

Ella hizo una descripción muy bonita de su pueblo.

She made a very beautiful description of her town.

'Bonita' agrees with the feminine 'descripción'.

¿Puedes darme una descripción de lo que viste?

Can you give me a description of what you saw?

The verb 'dar' (to give) is used with 'descripción'.

La descripción del clima dice que va a llover.

The weather description says it's going to rain.

In this context, it refers to the forecast details.

La descripción del puesto de trabajo incluye viajar mucho.

The job description includes traveling a lot.

'Descripción del puesto' is the standard term for 'job description'.

El testigo proporcionó una descripción pormenorizada del accidente.

The witness provided a detailed description of the accident.

'Pormenorizada' is a more formal synonym for 'detallada'.

Según la descripción del libro, el final es sorprendente.

According to the book's description, the ending is surprising.

'Según' (according to) is a useful prepositional phrase.

La descripción técnica del manual es difícil de seguir.

The technical description in the manual is hard to follow.

'Técnica' specifies the type of description.

Hizo una descripción tan vívida que casi podía oler las flores.

He made such a vivid description that I could almost smell the flowers.

'Tan... que' is a common structure for emphasis.

La descripción de los hechos no coincide con la realidad.

The description of the facts does not match reality.

'Descripción de los hechos' is a common legal/formal phrase.

Me gustaría una descripción de las ventajas de este plan.

I would like a description of the advantages of this plan.

The conditional 'gustaría' makes the request polite.

La descripción de su carácter era bastante acertada.

The description of his character was quite accurate.

'Acertada' means accurate or spot-on.

La descripción exhaustiva del terreno facilitó la construcción.

The exhaustive description of the terrain facilitated the construction.

'Exhaustiva' implies a very thorough description.

Su descripción de la situación política fue muy perspicaz.

His description of the political situation was very insightful.

'Perspicaz' (insightful) is a high-level adjective.

La novela destaca por sus descripciones líricas del paisaje.

The novel stands out for its lyrical descriptions of the landscape.

'Líricas' refers to a poetic or aesthetic style.

La descripción del perfil del cliente es fundamental para el marketing.

The description of the customer profile is fundamental for marketing.

'Perfil del cliente' is a common business term.

A pesar de la descripción, el lugar resultó ser decepcionante.

Despite the description, the place turned out to be disappointing.

'A pesar de' (despite) introduces a contrast.

La descripción de los síntomas ayudó al médico a dar un diagnóstico.

The description of the symptoms helped the doctor give a diagnosis.

The noun 'descripción' is the subject of the sentence.

Hizo una descripción tan vaga que nadie entendió nada.

He gave such a vague description that nobody understood anything.

'Vaga' is the opposite of 'detallada'.

La descripción del evento en las redes sociales fue viral.

The description of the event on social media went viral.

'Viral' is used here as an adjective.

La descripción fenomenológica del objeto revela su esencia.

The phenomenological description of the object reveals its essence.

'Fenomenológica' is a highly specialized academic term.

El autor elude la descripción directa para crear ambigüedad.

The author avoids direct description to create ambiguity.

'Eludir' (to avoid/evade) is a formal verb.

La descripción pormenorizada de los hechos es vital en el proceso judicial.

The detailed description of the facts is vital in the judicial process.

'Pormenorizada' is a very formal and precise adjective.

Su descripción de la psique humana es de una profundidad asombrosa.

His description of the human psyche is of an amazing depth.

'Psique' is a formal term for the mind or soul.

La descripción técnica del proyecto debe ser impecable.

The technical description of the project must be impeccable.

'Impecable' means flawless or perfect.

A través de la descripción, el poeta trasciende la realidad material.

Through description, the poet transcends material reality.

'Trascender' (to transcend) is a high-level verb.

La descripción del entorno socioeconómico es clave para el análisis.

The description of the socioeconomic environment is key to the analysis.

'Socioeconómico' is a compound academic adjective.

No se puede subestimar la importancia de una buena descripción en la ciencia.

The importance of a good description in science cannot be underestimated.

'Subestimar' (to underestimate) is a useful formal verb.

La descripción minuciosa de la flora local es un tesoro para los botánicos.

The meticulous description of the local flora is a treasure for botanists.

'Minuciosa' implies extreme attention to detail.

La obra se caracteriza por una descripción descarnada de la guerra.

The work is characterized by a raw/stark description of the war.

'Descarnada' means raw, stark, or without embellishment.

La descripción de la trayectoria del proyectil fue calculada con precisión milimétrica.

The description of the projectile's trajectory was calculated with millimeter precision.

'Precisión milimétrica' is a common idiomatic phrase for extreme accuracy.

En su ensayo, cuestiona la validez de cualquier descripción puramente objetiva.

In his essay, he questions the validity of any purely objective description.

'Cuestionar' (to question) is a formal academic verb.

La descripción de los mecanismos de poder es el eje central de la tesis.

The description of the mechanisms of power is the central axis of the thesis.

'Eje central' means the main focus or core.

La descripción de la atmósfera en la película es opresiva y claustrofóbica.

The description of the atmosphere in the movie is oppressive and claustrophobic.

Adjectives like 'opresiva' and 'claustrofóbica' create a specific mood.

Se requiere una descripción fidedigna de los acontecimientos para el archivo histórico.

A reliable description of the events is required for the historical archive.

'Fidedigna' means reliable, trustworthy, or faithful to the facts.

La descripción de la evolución del lenguaje es un campo fascinante de la lingüística.

The description of the evolution of language is a fascinating field of linguistics.

'Evolución del lenguaje' is a specialized subject of study.

Häufige Kollokationen

Descripción detallada

Descripción física

Descripción técnica

Hacer una descripción

Descripción del puesto

Descripción breve

Descripción precisa

Según la descripción

Descripción completa

Descripción de los hechos

Häufige Phrasen

Más allá de toda descripción

Corresponder a la descripción

Una descripción gráfica

Fiel a la descripción

Dar una descripción

Ajustarse a la descripción

Descripción de cargos

Una descripción pormenorizada

Descripción de producto

Bajo la descripción de

Wird oft verwechselt mit

descripción vs Definición

A definition explains what a word means; a description explains what something looks like or its characteristics.

descripción vs Explicación

An explanation focuses on why or how something happens, while a description focuses on the attributes of the thing itself.

descripción vs Resumen

A summary is a shortened version of a text or event, whereas a description can be very long and detailed.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"Ser la viva descripción de"

To be the perfect example or embodiment of a certain quality or person.

Él es la viva descripción de la paciencia.

Informal/Colloquial

"No tener descripción"

To be indescribable, usually because something is extremely good or extremely bad.

Lo que hiciste por mí no tiene descripción, ¡gracias!

Neutral

"Pintar una descripción"

To provide a very vivid and detailed account, as if painting a picture with words.

El guía pintó una descripción maravillosa de la antigua ciudad.

Literary

"Quedarse corto en la descripción"

To fail to fully capture the reality of something because the description was inadequate.

Las fotos se quedan cortas en la descripción de lo bonito que es este lugar.

Neutral

"Hacer una descripción de manual"

To give a very standard, predictable, or textbook description of something.

Hizo una descripción de manual sobre cómo funciona el motor.

Neutral

"Una descripción de película"

A description that is so exciting or dramatic it sounds like it's from a movie.

Nos dio una descripción de película sobre su escape de la tormenta.

Informal

"Pasar por la descripción"

To be subjected to a detailed examination or account.

Todos los sospechosos tuvieron que pasar por la descripción de los testigos.

Neutral

"Una descripción a vuelapluma"

A very quick, superficial description made in a hurry.

Solo pudo hacerme una descripción a vuelapluma antes de irse.

Formal

"Perderse en la descripción"

To focus too much on small details and lose the main point of the account.

Se perdió tanto en la descripción del paisaje que olvidó contar la historia.

Neutral

"La descripción es lo de menos"

Used to say that the details or the way something is described are not as important as the thing itself.

La descripción es lo de menos, lo importante es que el regalo te guste.

Informal

Leicht verwechselbar

descripción vs Inscripción

Similar spelling and ending.

Inscripción refers to an enrollment or an engraving, not a descriptive account.

La inscripción para el curso termina mañana.

descripción vs Suscripción

Similar spelling and ending.

Suscripción refers to a subscription (like for a magazine or service).

Tengo una suscripción a ese periódico digital.

descripción vs Transcripción

Similar spelling and ending.

Transcripción is the act of transcribing or writing down exactly what was said.

La transcripción de la entrevista fue muy larga.

descripción vs Prescripción

Similar spelling and ending.

Prescripción refers to a medical prescription or a legal statute of limitations.

El médico me dio una prescripción para el dolor.

descripción vs Adscripción

Similar spelling and ending.

Adscripción refers to the assignment of someone to a specific department or role.

Su adscripción al departamento de ventas fue reciente.

Satzmuster

La descripción de [noun] es [adjective].

La descripción de mi perro es bueno.

¿Puedes hacer una descripción de [noun]?

¿Puedes hacer una descripción de tu habitación?

Según la descripción de [noun], [clause].

Según la descripción de la policía, el coche es rojo.

Necesito una descripción detallada sobre [noun].

Necesito una descripción detallada sobre el proyecto.

La descripción del puesto requiere [noun/verb].

La descripción del puesto requiere hablar tres idiomas.

Hizo una descripción tan [adjective] que [clause].

Hizo una descripción tan buena que todos aplaudieron.

La descripción pormenorizada de [noun] es fundamental para [noun].

La descripción pormenorizada de los hechos es fundamental para el juicio.

La obra destaca por su descripción [adjective] de [noun].

La obra destaca por su descripción descarnada de la realidad.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

Verben

Adjektive

Verwandt

So verwendest du es

frequency

Very high in both written and spoken Spanish.

Häufige Fehler

Using 'el descripción'. → La descripción.
All nouns ending in -ción are feminine in Spanish.
Writing 'descripciones' with an accent. → Descripciones.
The accent mark is dropped in the plural form because the word becomes 'llana' ending in 's'.
Confusing 'descripción' with 'definición'. → Use 'descripción' for qualities and 'definición' for meanings.
A description tells you what something is like; a definition tells you what it is.
Forgetting the accent in 'descripción'. → Descripción.
The singular form needs the accent on the 'o' because it is an 'aguda' word ending in 'n'.
Using masculine adjectives with 'descripción'. → Una descripción detallada.
Adjectives must agree with the feminine gender of the noun.

Tipps

The Accent Rule

Always remember: singular has an accent (descripción), plural does not (descripciones). This applies to almost all -ción words.

Use Vivid Adjectives

Instead of just saying 'una descripción buena', try 'una descripción vívida', 'detallada', or 'fascinante' to sound more natural.

The 'Hacer' Connection

In English we 'give' a description, but in Spanish we often 'make' one (hacer una descripción). Both are used, but 'hacer' is very common.

Agreement is Key

Since 'descripción' is feminine, make sure all your adjectives end in -a or are neutral. 'Una descripción clarA', not 'claro'.

Professional Use

In a CV, use 'Descripción de logros' (Description of achievements) to highlight your successes clearly.

Catch the Ending

The '-ción' ending is a great clue that the word is a noun and feminine. Use this to help you parse sentences faster.

Expressiveness

Don't be afraid to be detailed. Spanish speakers often appreciate a rich, well-thought-out description in conversation.

Cognate Advantage

Use your knowledge of English to remember the meaning, but focus your energy on the Spanish-specific grammar rules like gender.

Daily Habit

Try to describe one object in your room every day in Spanish. It's a great way to build your descriptive vocabulary.

Avoid 'El'

Never say 'el descripción'. It sounds very wrong to native ears. Always stick with 'la' or 'una'.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of a 'Script' (from scribere) that 'Describes' the 'Description'. The '-ción' ending is like 'shun' in English (description).

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a painter (the describer) using words instead of paint to create a picture (the descripción) on a canvas.

Word Web

Describir Detalle Imagen Palabras Características Retrato Pormenor Vívido

Herausforderung

Try to write a five-sentence descripción of your favorite room in your house, using at least three different adjectives.

Wortherkunft

From the Latin 'descriptio', which is the noun of action from the past-participle stem of 'describere'. The prefix 'de-' means 'down' or 'completely', and 'scribere' means 'to write'.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: A sketching out, a copy, or a transcript.

Romance (derived from Latin).

Kultureller Kontext

When providing a 'descripción' of a person, be mindful of cultural sensitivities regarding physical appearance, race, and ethnicity, as terms can vary in their level of politeness across different Spanish-speaking regions.

In English, 'description' is used similarly, but Spanish speakers might use it more frequently in casual storytelling to add flavor and emotion.

The opening of 'Don Quixote' by Miguel de Cervantes contains a famous description of the protagonist's lifestyle. The 'descripciones' of Macondo in 'One Hundred Years of Solitude' are world-renowned for their magical realism. In the song 'La Descripción' by various Latin artists, the word is used to talk about the qualities of a loved one.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Law Enforcement

Descripción del sospechoso
Descripción del vehículo
Dar una descripción
Corresponder a la descripción

Job Search

Descripción del puesto
Descripción de funciones
Descripción de habilidades
Perfil de la descripción

Literature

Descripción del paisaje
Descripción del personaje
Descripción vívida
Uso de la descripción

Online Shopping

Descripción del producto
Leer la descripción
Descripción detallada
Error en la descripción

Medical

Descripción de síntomas
Descripción del dolor
Descripción clínica
Proporcionar una descripción

Gesprächseinstiege

"¿Podrías hacerme una descripción de tu ciudad ideal?"

"¿Qué opinas de la descripción que da el autor en este capítulo?"

"¿Crees que la descripción del producto en el anuncio es honesta?"

"¿Me puedes dar una descripción rápida de lo que pasó en la reunión?"

"¿Cuál es la descripción más extraña que has escuchado de alguien?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Escribe una descripción detallada de un recuerdo de tu infancia que sea muy importante para ti.

Haz una descripción de una persona que admires mucho, enfocándote en sus cualidades internas.

Describe un lugar al que te gustaría viajar y explica por qué te atrae tanto su descripción.

Escribe una descripción de cómo te sientes hoy, usando metáforas y comparaciones.

Haz una descripción de tu trabajo o estudio actual y qué es lo que más te gusta de él.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

Sí, en singular siempre lleva tilde en la 'o' porque es una palabra aguda terminada en 'n'. Por ejemplo: 'La descripción es clara'.

Porque al pasar al plural, la palabra se vuelve llana y termina en 's'. Según las reglas de acentuación del español, las palabras llanas que terminan en 'n', 's' o vocal no llevan tilde.

Es 'la descripción'. Todas las palabras que terminan en -ción son femeninas en español. Por ejemplo: 'La descripción detallada'.

Una descripción es un término general para cualquier cosa. Un retrato es una descripción específica de una persona, a menudo incluyendo su carácter.

Se dice 'descripción del puesto' o 'descripción del cargo'. Evita decir 'descripción de trabajo', que suena menos natural en contextos profesionales.

Los más comunes son 'hacer', 'dar', 'proporcionar', 'leer', 'escribir' y 'ajustarse a'. Por ejemplo: 'Hice una descripción de mi viaje'.

Sí, aunque es más difícil, puedes decir 'una descripción de mis sentimientos' para intentar explicar cómo te sientes.

Sí, es un cognado perfecto del inglés 'description', lo que facilita mucho su aprendizaje para los angloparlantes.

El adjetivo es 'descriptivo' (masculino) o 'descriptiva' (femenino). Por ejemplo: 'Un texto descriptivo'.

Aumenta tu vocabulario de adjetivos y practica usando conectores espaciales como 'a la derecha', 'al fondo' o 'en primer plano'.