At the A1 level, you should recognize 'imperfecto' as a word that describes things that are not perfect. You might use it to describe a toy with a scratch or a drawing that isn't quite right. At this stage, you only need to remember that it changes to 'imperfecta' for feminine things like 'una mesa' or 'una manzana'. It is a useful word for basic descriptions when you want to say something isn't 100% correct. You will likely see it in your first Spanish lessons as a simple adjective. Just think of it as the opposite of 'perfecto'. Even at this early stage, you can use it to talk about your own Spanish speaking skills, acknowledging that you are still learning and making mistakes. It's a humble and helpful word to have in your basic vocabulary toolkit.
At the A2 level, you begin to use 'imperfecto' in more complete sentences to describe physical objects and simple situations. You understand that it follows the noun, such as in 'un coche imperfecto'. You also start to encounter the word in a grammatical context. Your teacher will introduce the 'Pretérito Imperfecto', and you'll learn that this tense is used to describe what you 'used to do' or what was happening in the past. At A2, you should be able to distinguish between using the word as a description (the adjective) and using it as a grammar label. You can also start using it to describe people's actions in a simple way, like saying a plan is 'imperfecto' because it needs more work. It helps you add more detail to your descriptions beyond just saying things are 'good' or 'bad'.
At the B1 level, your use of 'imperfecto' becomes more abstract. You might use it to discuss feelings, relationships, or social systems. You understand the nuance that 'imperfecto' isn't necessarily a bad thing; it can be a realistic way to look at the world. You can participate in discussions about art or music where 'lo imperfecto' is seen as having its own beauty. In grammar, you are now comfortable using the Pretérito Imperfecto tense and can explain its rules using the word itself. You also start to recognize synonyms like 'defectuoso' and understand that 'imperfecto' is a broader, often less negative term. You can write short essays or give presentations where you describe the 'imperfecto' nature of a project or a historical event, showing a more sophisticated grasp of the language.
At the B2 level, you use 'imperfecto' with precision in both formal and informal contexts. You are aware of its placement in a sentence and how moving it can change the emphasis. You can use the word to critique literature or films, discussing 'personajes imperfectos' (imperfect characters) and how their flaws drive the plot. You understand the philosophical implications of the word, perhaps discussing the 'mundo imperfecto' in a debate about ethics or society. Your grammatical knowledge is solid, and you can compare the 'imperfecto' with other past tenses with ease. You also begin to use the neuter form 'lo imperfecto' to talk about the concept of imperfection as a whole. Your vocabulary is wide enough to choose between 'imperfecto', 'inacabado', and 'insuficiente' depending on the exact meaning you want to convey.
At the C1 level, 'imperfecto' is a tool for nuanced expression. You can use it in academic writing to describe experimental results that don't perfectly align with a hypothesis, or in legal contexts to discuss 'contratos imperfectos'. You understand the historical and etymological roots of the word and how they influence its various meanings in modern Spanish. You can engage in deep philosophical or aesthetic discussions about the value of imperfection in culture. You might use the word in complex sentence structures, such as 'Si bien el sistema es inherentemente imperfecto, es el más justo que hemos desarrollado'. You also recognize the word in idioms and more obscure literary references. Your ability to use the word accurately in high-level discussions shows a near-native command of Spanish vocabulary and its cultural weight.
At the C2 level, you have a complete mastery of 'imperfecto' and all its connotations. You can use it with subtle irony or poetic flair. You are comfortable using it in highly specialized fields, from linguistics to advanced mathematics or philosophy. You can analyze the use of the word in classic Spanish literature, such as in the works of Cervantes or Unamuno, where the concept of the imperfect human condition is a central theme. You can switch between its roles as an adjective, a noun, and a grammatical term without a second thought. Your use of the word is indistinguishable from that of an educated native speaker, and you can even play with its meaning in creative writing. You understand the most subtle differences between 'imperfecto' and its rarest synonyms, and you can explain these differences to others with clarity and depth.

imperfecto در ۳۰ ثانیه

  • Used to describe things with flaws or defects.
  • Changes form to match gender and number: imperfecto/a/os/as.
  • Also refers to the 'Pretérito Imperfecto' past tense in grammar.
  • Often used in art, philosophy, and daily descriptions of objects.

The Spanish adjective imperfecto is a cognate of the English word 'imperfect', making it relatively easy for English speakers to grasp at a basic level. However, its usage in Spanish carries specific nuances that span from physical descriptions to complex grammatical structures and philosophical discussions. At its core, imperfecto describes something that is not finished, not complete, or possesses flaws, defects, or errors. It is the antithesis of 'perfecto' (perfect), but in many Spanish-speaking cultures, the concept of being imperfecto is often embraced as a natural state of human existence and artistic expression.

Physical Objects
When describing physical items, 'imperfecto' suggests that there is a visible flaw. For example, a diamond with a small inclusion or a piece of pottery with an uneven glaze would be called imperfecto. It doesn't necessarily mean the object is 'roto' (broken), but rather that it lacks the ideal state of completion or symmetry.

Este diamante es imperfecto porque tiene una pequeña mancha en el centro.

Human Character
In a psychological or social context, calling someone or their actions imperfecto highlights the inherent fallibility of humans. It is often used in philosophical or self-reflective conversations to acknowledge that mistakes are part of life. Unlike 'malo' (bad), imperfecto implies a deviation from an ideal standard rather than a moral failing.

The word derives from the Latin 'imperfectus', where 'im-' means 'not' and 'perfectus' means 'finished'. This historical root is vital for understanding why it is used in grammar to describe actions that were 'not finished' in the past. In daily life, you will hear it in art galleries to describe the 'belleza de lo imperfecto' (beauty of the imperfect) or in retail when items are sold at a discount due to minor flaws. It is a versatile word that transitions smoothly from technical descriptions to deep emotional expressions.

Acepto que mi plan es imperfecto, pero es el mejor que tenemos ahora.

Abstract Concepts
When applied to ideas like 'justicia' (justice) or 'democracia' (democracy), imperfecto suggests that the system functions but has significant room for improvement. It is a common term in political discourse and academic writing to describe real-world applications of theoretical models.

Vivimos en un sistema legal imperfecto que requiere reformas constantes.

Finally, the word is frequently used in literature to describe characters who are relatable precisely because they are not perfect. An 'héroe imperfecto' is a protagonist with flaws that the reader can identify with. This usage highlights the transition of the word from a purely descriptive adjective to a tool for deep thematic exploration in Spanish storytelling and media.

Using imperfecto correctly in Spanish requires attention to its role as an adjective and its agreement with the nouns it modifies. Because it ends in '-o', it follows the standard rules for gender and number agreement. This section will guide you through the various ways to integrate this word into your Spanish vocabulary across different levels of complexity.

Gender and Number Agreement
The adjective changes based on what you are describing. For masculine singular nouns, use imperfecto. For feminine singular nouns, use imperfecta. For plurals, add '-s' to the respective singular form: imperfectos and imperfectas.

Las copias del cuadro son imperfectas y pierden el detalle original.

Position in the Sentence
Typically, 'imperfecto' follows the noun it describes, which is the standard position for descriptive adjectives in Spanish. Placing it before the noun can sometimes add a poetic or emphatic tone, though this is less common in everyday speech.

Ella tiene un recuerdo imperfecto de lo que sucedió aquella noche.

In grammatical contexts, you will encounter the word as a noun. When teachers say, 'Vamos a estudiar el imperfecto', they are referring to the Pretérito Imperfecto tense. In this case, the word functions as a shorthand for the entire grammatical concept. It is important to distinguish whether the speaker is describing a quality or referring to a verb tense by looking at the surrounding sentence structure.

El pretérito imperfecto se usa para describir rutinas en el pasado.

Comparisons and Superlatives
You can use 'imperfecto' in comparative structures. For example, 'Este trabajo es más imperfecto que el anterior' (This work is more imperfect than the previous one). While logically 'perfect' shouldn't have degrees, 'imperfect' certainly does in common parlance.

Es el dibujo más imperfecto de toda la colección, pero es mi favorito.

Another interesting usage is in the phrase 'lo imperfecto', where the neuter article 'lo' turns the adjective into an abstract noun meaning 'that which is imperfect' or 'imperfection' in a general sense. This is very common in philosophical or artistic discussions. For example, 'Lo imperfecto también tiene su encanto' (The imperfect also has its charm).

Hearing the word imperfecto in the wild happens in several distinct environments. From the structured setting of a Spanish classroom to the emotional depths of a song or the practical reality of a marketplace, the word surfaces frequently. Understanding these contexts will help you recognize its meaning instantly without needing a dictionary.

In the Language Classroom
This is arguably where students hear the word most often. Teachers frequently refer to the 'imperfecto' when discussing past tense conjugations. If you hear someone say, 'Conjuga el verbo en imperfecto', they aren't asking you to make the verb flawed; they are asking for a specific grammatical form (e.g., 'yo hablaba').

¿Cuándo usamos el imperfecto en lugar del indefinido?

In Art and Design
In the world of aesthetics, 'imperfecto' is often used as a positive attribute. Critics might praise a work for its 'acabado imperfecto' (imperfect finish), suggesting it feels more human and less industrial. You'll hear this in discussions about handmade crafts, architecture, and even high-fashion photography.

Ese jarrón es imperfecto, pero su textura es única.

In music and literature, 'imperfecto' is a favorite word for lyricists and authors. It often appears in songs about heartbreak or self-discovery. A singer might describe their love as 'un amor imperfecto' (an imperfect love), implying that while it has problems, it is still real and valuable. This romanticized view of imperfection is a common theme in Spanish-language ballads and poetry.

Somos dos seres imperfectos intentando ser felices.

Scientific and Technical Reports
In more formal or technical settings, 'imperfecto' is used to describe data or results that are not precise. A scientist might refer to an 'ajuste imperfecto' (imperfect fit) in a statistical model. This indicates that the data does not perfectly match the expected curve or theory.

Finally, in daily conversation, you might hear it as an apology or a disclaimer. If someone is showing you their work-in-progress, they might say, 'Todavía está imperfecto' (It's still imperfect/unfinished). This manages expectations and invites constructive criticism. It's a humble way to present something that isn't yet at its best.

While imperfecto is a cognate, there are several pitfalls that English speakers often fall into when using it. These mistakes range from simple grammatical errors to more subtle semantic confusions. Understanding these will help you sound more like a native speaker and avoid potentially confusing situations.

Confusing Adjective with Grammar
The most common mistake for learners is thinking 'imperfecto' only refers to the verb tense. If you tell someone 'Tu español es imperfecto', you are saying their Spanish is flawed, not that they are using the imperfect tense. Always be aware of the context to ensure you aren't accidentally insulting someone's skills when you mean to discuss grammar.

Incorrect: Hablo en imperfecta. (Mistake in gender agreement for the noun 'pretérito').

Gender Agreement Errors
Many learners forget to change 'imperfecto' to 'imperfecta' when describing feminine nouns. For example, 'una solución imperfecto' is incorrect; it must be 'una solución imperfecta'. Since the word sounds so similar to English, students often default to the '-o' ending without thinking about the noun.

Another mistake is using 'imperfecto' when 'incorrecto' (incorrect/wrong) or 'defectuoso' (defective) would be more appropriate. If a math answer is wrong, it is 'incorrecto', not 'imperfecto'. If a machine doesn't work at all, it is 'defectuoso'. 'Imperfecto' usually implies that something exists and functions but has minor flaws or isn't ideal. Using 'imperfecto' for a completely wrong answer might sound strange to a native speaker.

Correct: La respuesta es incorrecta. (Not 'imperfecta' if it is simply wrong).

Overusing the Word
Because it is a cognate, English speakers tend to over-rely on 'imperfecto' rather than using more descriptive Spanish adjectives like 'flojo' (weak/lazy), 'mediocre' (mediocre), or 'manchado' (stained). While 'imperfecto' is correct, expanding your vocabulary will make your Spanish sound much more natural.

Lastly, be careful with the plural forms. If you are describing a group of items where even one is masculine, the adjective must be 'imperfectos'. For example, 'Los libros y las revistas son imperfectos'. Many learners struggle with this mixed-gender pluralization rule, often defaulting to the feminine 'imperfectas' if they see a feminine noun last in the list.

To truly master Spanish, you need to know when to use imperfecto and when another word might be more precise. Spanish is a rich language with many synonyms that carry different 'flavors' of meaning. This section compares 'imperfecto' with its closest relatives to help you choose the right word for every situation.

Imperfecto vs. Defectuoso
Imperfecto describes something that isn't perfect but might still be beautiful or functional. Defectuoso, however, usually means something is broken or has a factory error that prevents it from working correctly. You buy an 'imperfect' vase for its character, but you return a 'defective' phone because it won't turn on.

El juguete es defectuoso y no funciona, no es solo un detalle imperfecto.

Imperfecto vs. Incompleto
While both words relate to the idea of not being 'finished', incompleto specifically means that parts are missing. An 'imperfect' puzzle might have a piece with a faded color, but an 'incomplete' puzzle is missing pieces entirely. Use 'incompleto' when the physical or logical structure is lacking a component.

Su informe está incompleto; faltan las conclusiones finales.

Other alternatives include inacabado (unfinished), which is often used for buildings or projects that were stopped before completion. Irregular is used for shapes or patterns that don't follow a perfect line. If you are describing a person's character, you might use vulnerable to show that their imperfections make them human and relatable.

Imperfecto vs. Mediocre
Imperfecto is often neutral or even poetic. Mediocre is almost always negative, suggesting that something is of poor quality or lacks effort. An 'imperfect' poem might be beautiful in its raw state, but a 'mediocre' poem is simply not very good.

Prefiero un resultado imperfecto pero honesto que algo mediocre.

By learning these distinctions, you can navigate the subtle differences between 'flawed', 'broken', 'missing', and 'poor quality'. This will allow you to express your thoughts with much greater precision in Spanish and avoid the 'cognate trap' of using the same word for every situation.

چقدر رسمی است؟

نکته جالب

The grammatical sense of 'imperfecto' comes directly from the idea of an action being 'unfinished' in the past, which is why we use it for ongoing habits.

راهنمای تلفظ

UK /ɪm.pəˈfɛk.təʊ/
US /ɪm.pərˈfɛk.toʊ/
The stress is on the penultimate syllable: im-per-FEC-to.
هم‌قافیه با
recto insecto trayecto aspecto defecto efecto proyecto afecto
خطاهای رایج
  • Pronouncing the 'i' as in 'hit' instead of 'ee'.
  • Over-aspirating the 'p' or 't'.
  • Using an English 'r' instead of the Spanish tap.
  • Stressing the wrong syllable.
  • Failing to pronounce the 'k' sound in the 'ct' cluster clearly.

سطح دشواری

خواندن 1/5

Very easy to recognize because it is a cognate of 'imperfect'.

نوشتن 2/5

Requires attention to gender and number agreement.

صحبت کردن 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward but the 'ct' cluster needs care.

گوش دادن 2/5

Easy to hear, but must be distinguished from the grammar tense context.

بعداً چه یاد بگیریم؟

پیش‌نیازها

perfecto malo bueno cosa ser

بعداً یاد بگیرید

pretérito indefinido defectuoso incompleto mejora

پیشرفته

ontología estética falibilidad inherente

گرامر لازم

Adjective Agreement

La casa (f) es imperfecta (f).

Adjective Placement

Un plan imperfecto (usually follows the noun).

Neuter Article 'Lo'

Lo imperfecto nos hace humanos.

Pretérito Imperfecto Tense

Yo jugaba (imperfecto) al fútbol todos los días.

Comparatives

Este es más imperfecto que ese.

مثال‌ها بر اساس سطح

1

Mi dibujo es imperfecto.

My drawing is imperfect.

Masculine singular agreement with 'dibujo'.

2

La mesa es imperfecta.

The table is imperfect.

Feminine singular agreement with 'mesa'.

3

Tengo un juguete imperfecto.

I have an imperfect toy.

Adjective follows the noun 'juguete'.

4

Tus zapatos son imperfectos.

Your shoes are imperfect.

Masculine plural agreement.

5

Las manzanas son imperfectas.

The apples are imperfect.

Feminine plural agreement.

6

El círculo no es perfecto, es imperfecto.

The circle is not perfect, it is imperfect.

Contrast between 'perfecto' and 'imperfecto'.

7

Es un libro imperfecto.

It is an imperfect book.

Standard adjective usage.

8

Mi español es imperfecto.

My Spanish is imperfect.

Common way for beginners to describe their skills.

1

El plan de viaje es un poco imperfecto.

The travel plan is a bit imperfect.

Use of 'un poco' to modify the adjective.

2

Hoy estudiamos el pretérito imperfecto.

Today we study the imperfect preterite.

'Imperfecto' used as a grammatical term.

3

Compré una camisa imperfecta en la rebaja.

I bought an imperfect shirt at the sale.

Feminine agreement with 'camisa'.

4

Sus resultados fueron imperfectos pero útiles.

His results were imperfect but useful.

Plural agreement and use of 'pero'.

5

La casa tiene un diseño imperfecto.

The house has an imperfect design.

Adjective describing the noun 'diseño'.

6

Ella tiene una visión imperfecta de la realidad.

She has an imperfect vision of reality.

Abstract usage of the word.

7

Esa estatua es imperfecta por el paso del tiempo.

That statue is imperfect due to the passage of time.

Describing the cause of imperfection.

8

Los diamantes imperfectos son más baratos.

Imperfect diamonds are cheaper.

Plural masculine agreement.

1

Acepto que mi trabajo es imperfecto, pero puse mucho esfuerzo.

I accept that my work is imperfect, but I put in a lot of effort.

Using 'imperfecto' for self-reflection.

2

Lo imperfecto de la obra es lo que la hace bella.

The imperfect part of the work is what makes it beautiful.

Neuter article 'lo' creating an abstract noun.

3

Vivimos en un mundo imperfecto lleno de retos.

We live in an imperfect world full of challenges.

Common philosophical phrase.

4

El sistema de votación es imperfecto y necesita mejoras.

The voting system is imperfect and needs improvements.

Describing a process or system.

5

Ella prefiere la madera natural con sus nudos imperfectos.

She prefers natural wood with its imperfect knots.

Using 'imperfecto' as a positive aesthetic quality.

6

El ritmo de la canción es ligeramente imperfecto.

The rhythm of the song is slightly imperfect.

Adverb 'ligeramente' modifying the adjective.

7

Sus recuerdos de la infancia son imperfectos y borrosos.

His childhood memories are imperfect and blurry.

Describing abstract mental states.

8

Es un héroe imperfecto con el que todos se identifican.

He is an imperfect hero with whom everyone identifies.

Literary description of a character.

1

La traducción es imperfecta porque no captura el tono original.

The translation is imperfect because it doesn't capture the original tone.

Critiquing a linguistic work.

2

A pesar de ser un plan imperfecto, decidimos seguir adelante.

Despite being an imperfect plan, we decided to move forward.

Using 'a pesar de' (despite).

3

El mercado laboral es imperfecto debido a la falta de información.

The labor market is imperfect due to the lack of information.

Economic context of the word.

4

Buscamos la perfección en un entorno que es, por naturaleza, imperfecto.

We seek perfection in an environment that is, by nature, imperfect.

Contrast between 'perfección' and 'imperfecto'.

5

La simetría de su rostro es imperfecta, lo cual le da carácter.

The symmetry of his face is imperfect, which gives him character.

Describing physical appearance as a positive.

6

El conocimiento humano siempre será imperfecto y limitado.

Human knowledge will always be imperfect and limited.

Philosophical statement about humanity.

7

Esa ley es un instrumento imperfecto para resolver el conflicto.

That law is an imperfect instrument for resolving the conflict.

Formal/Legal context.

8

El autor utiliza el tiempo imperfecto para crear una atmósfera de nostalgia.

The author uses the imperfect tense to create an atmosphere of nostalgia.

Literary analysis involving grammar.

1

La democracia es el menos imperfecto de los sistemas políticos.

Democracy is the least imperfect of political systems.

Superlative 'el menos imperfecto'.

2

El modelo matemático ofrece una representación imperfecta de la realidad física.

The mathematical model offers an imperfect representation of physical reality.

Scientific/Academic usage.

3

Su testimonio resultó ser imperfecto tras la aparición de nuevas pruebas.

His testimony turned out to be imperfect after new evidence appeared.

Legal/Formal context.

4

La estética de lo imperfecto ha ganado terreno en la arquitectura moderna.

The aesthetics of the imperfect has gained ground in modern architecture.

Artistic/Architectural theory.

5

Reconocemos la naturaleza imperfecta de nuestras instituciones.

We recognize the imperfect nature of our institutions.

Formal political discourse.

6

El contrato era imperfecto porque omitía cláusulas fundamentales.

The contract was imperfect because it omitted fundamental clauses.

Specific legal term 'contrato imperfecto'.

7

La comunicación entre ellos era imperfecta, llena de malentendidos.

The communication between them was imperfect, full of misunderstandings.

Describing interpersonal dynamics.

8

El ajuste de la pieza era imperfecto, lo que causaba vibraciones.

The fit of the part was imperfect, which caused vibrations.

Technical/Engineering context.

1

La ontología de lo imperfecto es un tema recurrente en la filosofía existencialista.

The ontology of the imperfect is a recurring theme in existentialist philosophy.

High-level philosophical usage.

2

Su prosa, aunque deliberadamente imperfecta, posee una fuerza lírica innegable.

His prose, although deliberately imperfect, possesses an undeniable lyrical force.

Literary criticism.

3

La justicia humana es, por definición, un ideal imperfecto e inalcanzable.

Human justice is, by definition, an imperfect and unattainable ideal.

Abstract legal/philosophical concept.

4

El bilingüismo perfecto es un mito; todo hablante es, en cierto modo, imperfecto.

Perfect bilingualism is a myth; every speaker is, in a way, imperfect.

Linguistic theory.

5

La obra se caracteriza por un equilibrio imperfecto entre forma y contenido.

The work is characterized by an imperfect balance between form and content.

Advanced artistic analysis.

6

En el mercado de competencia imperfecta, las empresas tienen poder sobre el precio.

In an imperfectly competitive market, companies have power over the price.

Technical economic term 'competencia imperfecta'.

7

La memoria es un archivo imperfecto que reconstruye el pasado constantemente.

Memory is an imperfect archive that constantly reconstructs the past.

Metaphorical usage in cognitive science.

8

Aceptamos la condición imperfecta de nuestra existencia como punto de partida.

We accept the imperfect condition of our existence as a starting point.

Existential discourse.

ترکیب‌های رایج

mundo imperfecto
pretérito imperfecto
plan imperfecto
círculo imperfecto
sistema imperfecto
recuerdo imperfecto
ajuste imperfecto
amor imperfecto
equilibrio imperfecto
conocimiento imperfecto

عبارات رایج

Lo imperfecto es bello

— A phrase suggesting that flaws add beauty to something.

No te preocupes por la mancha; lo imperfecto es bello.

Nadie es perfecto, todos somos imperfectos

— A common saying to remind people that everyone makes mistakes.

No seas tan duro contigo mismo; todos somos imperfectos.

Un acabado imperfecto

— Refers to a style in art or construction that intentionally leaves flaws.

El mueble tiene un acabado imperfecto muy moderno.

En un estado imperfecto

— Describes something that is currently not at its best.

La casa se encuentra en un estado imperfecto.

De manera imperfecta

— Doing something in a way that isn't perfect.

Hablaba el idioma de manera imperfecta.

Un diamante imperfecto

— A literal or metaphorical description of something valuable but flawed.

Ella es como un diamante imperfecto.

Lógica imperfecta

— Reasoning that has some flaws or gaps.

Su argumento se basa en una lógica imperfecta.

Visión imperfecta

— Not seeing something clearly, either physically or mentally.

Tengo una visión imperfecta de lo que pasó.

Sujeto imperfecto

— In some contexts, a person who doesn't meet certain criteria.

El sospechoso era un sujeto imperfecto para el crimen.

Ritmo imperfecto

— A beat or pace that is not consistent.

La canción tiene un ritmo imperfecto muy interesante.

اغلب اشتباه گرفته می‌شود با

imperfecto vs incorrecto

Used for things that are 'wrong' (like a math answer), while 'imperfecto' means 'flawed'.

imperfecto vs defectuoso

Used for things that don't work (broken), while 'imperfecto' can still function.

imperfecto vs incompleto

Used when parts are missing, whereas 'imperfecto' means the parts are there but flawed.

اصطلاحات و عبارات

"Ser un imperfecto"

— Sometimes used to call someone a 'flawed person' in a specific context.

Ese hombre es un imperfecto, no confíes en él.

informal
"A lo imperfecto"

— Doing something in a rough or unfinished way.

Lo arregló a lo imperfecto para salir del paso.

informal
"Más imperfecto que un pecado"

— A hyperbolic way to say something is very flawed.

Ese trabajo está más imperfecto que un pecado.

slang
"El imperfecto de la vida"

— A poetic way to refer to life's struggles.

Así es el imperfecto de la vida.

literary
"Bailar al son imperfecto"

— Adapting to a difficult or flawed situation.

Tuvimos que bailar al son imperfecto de la crisis.

informal
"Poner el imperfecto"

— Pointing out the flaws in something.

Siempre tienes que poner el imperfecto a todo lo que hago.

informal
"Vivir en el imperfecto"

— A pun referring to someone who always talks about the past (the tense).

Juan siempre vive en el imperfecto, nunca habla del futuro.

informal
"Coser lo imperfecto"

— Trying to fix a situation that is already flawed.

Estamos intentando coser lo imperfecto de esta relación.

informal
"Ojo imperfecto"

— Having a poor judgment or bad aim.

Tienes un ojo imperfecto para los negocios.

informal
"Cosecha imperfecta"

— A bad result or a group of people with many flaws.

Este año la clase es una cosecha imperfecta.

informal

به‌راحتی اشتباه گرفته می‌شود

imperfecto vs incorrecto

Both imply something isn't right.

'Incorrecto' means factually wrong or against rules. 'Imperfecto' means having physical or qualitative flaws.

Tu respuesta es incorrecta, pero tu dibujo es imperfecto.

imperfecto vs defectuoso

Both describe flaws.

'Defectuoso' is technical and usually negative (broken). 'Imperfecto' can be aesthetic and neutral.

El motor está defectuoso; el acabado es imperfecto.

imperfecto vs incompleto

Both mean 'not finished'.

'Incompleto' means missing segments. 'Imperfecto' means the segments present are not ideal.

El rompecabezas está incompleto (falta una pieza); el dibujo es imperfecto (las líneas están torcidas).

imperfecto vs fallido

Both relate to failure/flaws.

'Fallido' means something failed completely. 'Imperfecto' means it exists but has flaws.

Fue un intento fallido; es un resultado imperfecto.

imperfecto vs malo

General negative descriptors.

'Malo' is a general judgment of quality or morality. 'Imperfecto' is a specific description of flaws.

No es un mal libro, solo es un poco imperfecto.

الگوهای جمله‌سازی

A1

El/La [noun] es imperfecto/a.

El juguete es imperfecto.

A2

Tengo un/una [noun] imperfecto/a.

Tengo una mesa imperfecta.

B1

Lo [adjective] de lo imperfecto es...

Lo bello de lo imperfecto es la verdad.

B1

Es un/una [noun] [adjective] e imperfecto/a.

Es una obra antigua e imperfecta.

B2

A pesar de ser [noun] imperfecto/a...

A pesar de ser un plan imperfecto, funcionó.

C1

La naturaleza imperfecta de [noun]...

La naturaleza imperfecta de la justicia...

C2

[Noun] es, por definición, imperfecto/a.

La memoria es, por definición, imperfecta.

B2

Prefiero [noun] imperfecto/a a [noun] perfecto/a.

Prefiero un libro imperfecto a uno perfecto.

خانواده کلمه

اسم‌ها

imperfección
perfección
perfeccionamiento
perfeccionista

فعل‌ها

perfeccionar
imperfectar (rare)

صفت‌ها

perfecto
perfeccionista
imperfectivo

مرتبط

defecto
fallo
error
mancha
limite

نحوه استفاده

frequency

Very common in both everyday speech and academic writing.

اشتباهات رایج
  • La idea es imperfecto. La idea es imperfecta.

    Adjectives must agree in gender with the noun 'idea' (feminine).

  • Uso el tiempo imperfecta. Uso el tiempo imperfecto.

    The word 'tiempo' is masculine, so the adjective must be 'imperfecto'.

  • El coche es incorrecto. El coche es imperfecto.

    Use 'imperfecto' for physical flaws; 'incorrecto' is for errors in logic or rules.

  • Las manzanas son imperfectos. Las manzanas son imperfectas.

    Plural feminine nouns require the '-as' ending.

  • Hablo en el pretérito imperfecta. Hablo en el pretérito imperfecto.

    'Pretérito' is a masculine noun.

نکات

Agreement is Key

Always match the ending to the noun. Don't forget 'imperfecta' for feminine words like 'idea' or 'solución'.

Beyond Cognates

While 'imperfecto' is easy, try learning 'defectuoso' for when things are actually broken.

The 'CT' Sound

Practice saying 'im-per-fec-to' slowly to ensure the 'c' sound (k) is there before the 't'.

Embrace Flaws

In Spanish art, 'lo imperfecto' is often celebrated. Use it as a positive when discussing handmade items.

Grammar Context

If you are in a Spanish class, 'imperfecto' almost always refers to the past tense.

Abstract Nouns

Use 'lo imperfecto' to start sentences in essays, like 'Lo imperfecto de la sociedad...'

Context Clues

Listen for 'ser' vs 'estar'. 'Es imperfecto' is an inherent trait; 'está imperfecto' might mean it's unfinished.

Self-Correction

It's okay to say 'Mi español es imperfecto'. It shows you are aware of your learning journey.

Poetic Usage

Placing 'imperfecto' before a noun can make your writing sound more literary.

Visual Link

Visualize a cracked mirror. It's an 'espejo imperfecto'.

حفظ کنید

روش یادسپاری

Think of an 'IM-PERFECT-O' (Imperfect Object). It looks like 'imperfect' in English, just add an 'o' for masculine things!

تداعی تصویری

Imagine a circle drawn by hand that doesn't quite close. That gap represents the 'imperfecto' nature of the shape.

شبکه واژگان

flaw unfinished past tense broken human art error habit

چالش

Try to find five things in your room right now that are 'imperfectos' and name them in Spanish.

ریشه کلمه

From the Latin 'imperfectus', which is a combination of the prefix 'im-' (not) and 'perfectus' (finished, complete). It entered the Spanish language as part of the Latin heritage of the Romance languages.

معنای اصلی: Not finished or incomplete.

Indo-European > Italic > Romance > Spanish.

بافت فرهنگی

Calling a person 'imperfecto' is generally fine as a philosophical statement, but be careful not to use it as a personal insult regarding their appearance.

English speakers often view 'imperfect' as a negative, whereas in Spanish art and literature, it is frequently used to denote 'human' or 'authentic'.

The song 'Amor Imperfecto' Grammar textbooks worldwide The concept of 'Wabi-sabi' (often explained using 'imperfecto' in Spanish)

تمرین در زندگی واقعی

موقعیت‌های واقعی

Art Class

  • Un trazo imperfecto
  • La belleza de lo imperfecto
  • Un acabado imperfecto
  • Escultura imperfecta

Grammar Lesson

  • El tiempo imperfecto
  • Verbos en imperfecto
  • Uso del imperfecto
  • Conjugar el imperfecto

Shopping

  • Artículo imperfecto
  • Precio por ser imperfecto
  • Ropa imperfecta
  • Descuento por imperfecto

Relationships

  • Amor imperfecto
  • Somos imperfectos
  • Relación imperfecta
  • Pareja imperfecta

Science

  • Modelo imperfecto
  • Ajuste imperfecto
  • Datos imperfectos
  • Resultado imperfecto

شروع‌کننده‌های مکالمه

"¿Crees que un mundo perfecto sería aburrido o mejor que este mundo imperfecto?"

"¿Cuál es tu tiempo verbal favorito, el imperfecto o el indefinido?"

"¿Prefieres comprar algo barato e imperfecto o caro y perfecto?"

"¿Qué parte de tu español consideras que es más imperfecta todavía?"

"¿Conoces algún personaje de película que sea un héroe imperfecto?"

موضوعات نگارش

Describe un objeto que tengas en casa que sea imperfecto pero que te guste mucho.

Escribe sobre una vez que cometiste un error y cómo ese momento imperfecto te enseñó algo.

¿Qué opinas de la frase 'lo imperfecto es más real que lo perfecto'?

Haz una lista de tres cosas imperfectas en tu ciudad que cambiarías.

Escribe un pequeño cuento sobre un robot que quiere ser imperfecto.

سوالات متداول

10 سوال

Sí, pero generalmente se usa de forma filosófica para decir que todos cometemos errores ('Todos somos imperfectos'). Si quieres criticar el carácter de alguien, hay palabras más específicas.

No. En el arte y la estética, 'imperfecto' puede ser algo positivo que añade carácter y autenticidad a una obra.

El adjetivo describe una cualidad ('un plan imperfecto'). El tiempo verbal es un nombre para una categoría gramatical ('el pretérito imperfecto'). El contexto te dirá cuál es cuál.

Se dice 'imperfectas'. Por ejemplo: 'Las manzanas son imperfectas'.

Suena redundante. Normalmente dices 'un error' o 'un resultado imperfecto'. Un error es, por naturaleza, algo que hace que algo sea imperfecto.

Se usa en todo el mundo hispanohablante. Es una palabra estándar y muy común.

Es la forma de convertir el adjetivo en un sustantivo abstracto que significa 'the concept of imperfection'.

Sí, significa exactamente lo mismo que 'imperfect' en inglés en la mayoría de los casos.

Como una 'k' suave seguida de una 't'. No omitas la 'c' (no digas 'imperfeto').

Sí, para describir frutas o verduras que no tienen la forma ideal pero se pueden comer.

خودت رو بسنج 200 سوال

writing

Write a sentence describing an 'imperfect drawing'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write a sentence using 'imperfecta' with the word 'mesa'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'We live in an imperfect world'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Explain in one sentence why a diamond might be 'imperfecto'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Use 'lo imperfecto' in a sentence about art.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write a sentence about the 'pretérito imperfecto'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Describe an 'imperfect hero' in Spanish.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'The apples are imperfect but sweet'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write a sentence using 'imperfectos' with 'libros'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Use 'imperfecto' to describe a plan.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'An imperfect justice'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write a sentence using 'imperfectamente'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Describe a 'broken toy' using 'imperfecto'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Use 'imperfecto' in a formal context about a system.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'Your Spanish is imperfect but good'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write a sentence about an 'imperfect memory'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Use 'imperfecta' to describe a solution.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'The symmetry is imperfect'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write a sentence about an 'imperfect circle'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Use 'imperfecto' to describe a rhythm.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Pronounce: 'imperfecto'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Pronounce: 'imperfecta'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say: 'El mundo es imperfecto'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say: 'Las manzanas son imperfectas'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say: 'Estudiamos el imperfecto'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say: 'Lo imperfecto es bello'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say: 'Un plan imperfecto'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say: 'Resultados imperfectos'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say: 'Recuerdos imperfectos'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say: 'Una vida imperfecta'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say: 'El diamante es imperfecto'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say: 'Nadie es perfecto'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say: 'Un sistema imperfecto'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say: 'Justicia imperfecta'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say: 'Acabado imperfecto'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say: 'Ritmo imperfecto'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say: 'Héroe imperfecto'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say: 'Simetría imperfecta'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say: 'Visión imperfecta'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say: 'Círculo imperfecto'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to: 'El plan es imperfecto'. What is the plan?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to: 'La mesa es imperfecta'. What is the table?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to: 'Mañana estudiamos el imperfecto'. What are they studying?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to: 'Lo imperfecto me gusta'. Does the person like imperfection?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to: 'Las manzanas son imperfectas'. Are the apples perfect?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to: 'Un amor imperfecto'. What kind of love is it?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to: 'El diamante es imperfecto'. What object is mentioned?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to: 'Resultados imperfectos'. What was the outcome?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to: 'Un héroe imperfecto'. Who is described?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to: 'Justicia imperfecta'. What concept is mentioned?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to: 'Sistema imperfecto'. What is imperfect?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to: 'Recuerdos imperfectos'. What are imperfect?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to: 'Visión imperfecta'. What is imperfect?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to: 'Ritmo imperfecto'. What is imperfect?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to: 'Mundo imperfecto'. What is imperfect?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:

/ 200 درست

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