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B1 adjective #3,500 le plus courant 10 min de lecture

concreto

Top 3,500

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces concreto en 30 secondes

Explication concreto in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of 'concreto' as a word that means 'real' or 'specific'. When you are learning basic Spanish, you often talk about things in general, like 'I like fruit'. But if you want to say which fruit you like best, you are being 'concreto'. For example, if you say 'I want a specific book', you use this word. It's the opposite of being vague. Just remember that it changes to 'concreta' if the thing you are talking about is feminine (like 'una cosa'). At this level, you might also hear it in Latin America when people talk about the material used to build houses, though 'cemento' is also common. Think of it as a way to point your finger at one thing and say 'this one'. It helps you be clear when you are asking for things in a shop or making simple plans with friends. For example, '¿Qué día?' 'El lunes, en concreto' (Which day? Monday, specifically). Even at the beginning, using this word makes your Spanish sound much more certain and clear. It is a very useful word for moving from simple sentences to more detailed ones.

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At the A2 level, 'concreto' becomes a key tool for providing details. You are moving beyond simple 'yes' or 'no' answers and starting to describe things with more precision. You will use 'concreto' to clarify your ideas. For instance, instead of just saying 'Tengo un problema', you might say 'Tengo un problema concreto con mi coche'. This tells the listener that it's not just any problem, but a specific one. You should also start using the phrase 'en concreto'. This is a great way to give examples. If you are talking about your family, you could say 'Mi familia es grande; en concreto, tengo cinco hermanos'. Here, 'en concreto' means 'specifically'. You will also notice that in many Spanish-speaking countries in the Americas, 'concreto' is the word for the hard material used for sidewalks and buildings. If you are reading basic news or stories, you might see it used to describe 'hechos' (facts). A 'hecho concreto' is something that definitely happened. At this stage, focusing on the agreement of the adjective (concreto/concreta/concretos/concretas) is very important for your grammar development.

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At the B1 level, you are expected to handle more complex topics and express opinions. 'Concreto' is essential here because it allows you to move between the abstract and the specific. In discussions, you might say, 'Es una buena idea en teoría, pero necesitamos un plan concreto'. This shows you understand the difference between a general concept and a practical application. You will also encounter the verb 'concretar', which means 'to finalize' or 'to make specific'. For example, 'Vamos a concretar la hora de la reunión'. This is a very common word in office environments and for making social arrangements. You should also be aware of the regional difference: 'hormigón' in Spain versus 'concreto' in Latin America for construction. This cultural nuance is part of the B1 requirement to understand different varieties of Spanish. Additionally, you will use 'concreto' in more formal writing to introduce specific data or examples that support your arguments. It helps you avoid 'generalizaciones' (generalizations), which is a sign of a maturing language learner. You can now use it to describe not just physical objects, but also 'resultados concretos' (specific results) or 'objetivos concretos' (specific goals).

At the B2 level, 'concreto' is a word you use to add weight and professional polish to your speech. You understand its philosophical roots as the opposite of 'abstracto'. In a debate or a formal presentation, you might use it to ground your arguments: 'Para ilustrar este punto, miremos un caso concreto'. This shows a high level of rhetorical skill. You are also comfortable with the nuances of 'en concreto' versus 'en particular' or 'específicamente', choosing the one that fits the rhythm of your sentence. You recognize that 'concreto' implies a level of finality and tangibility. For example, 'una oferta concreta' is a firm offer, not just a suggestion. You also understand the technical use of the word in construction contexts across Latin America without confusion. At this level, you might use the noun form 'lo concreto' to refer to the realm of the tangible: 'Debemos centrarnos en lo concreto y dejar de lado las especulaciones'. This demonstrates an ability to use adjectives as nouns to discuss abstract concepts, a hallmark of upper-intermediate proficiency. Your use of the word family, including 'concreción' (the act of making something concrete) and 'concretamente', should be fluid and natural.

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At the C1 level, your use of 'concreto' and its related forms should be sophisticated and context-aware. You can use it to navigate complex academic or legal texts where 'el caso concreto' (the case at hand) is a standard term. You understand the subtle stylistic differences between 'concreto', 'preciso', 'determinado', and 'tangible'. You might use 'concreto' to discuss the 'realidad concreta' of a socio-political situation, acknowledging the material conditions that define it. Your vocabulary is rich enough to use 'concretar' not just for 'setting a time', but for 'summing up' or 'crystallizing' a complex argument: 'Para concretar, mi tesis es...'. You are also aware of the historical etymology of the word from the Latin 'concretus' (grown together), which informs your understanding of its use in chemistry or philosophy to describe things that have coalesced into a physical form. In professional settings, you use 'concreto' to demand accountability and precision, and you can seamlessly switch between 'hormigón' and 'concreto' depending on your audience's dialect. You use the word to provide structural clarity to your discourse, ensuring that your listeners always know when you are moving from a general principle to a specific, empirical application.

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At the C2 level, 'concreto' is a tool for absolute precision and stylistic flair. You possess a native-like grasp of its most subtle connotations. You can engage in deep philosophical discussions about 'el pensamiento concreto' versus 'el pensamiento formal', or analyze the 'poesía concreta' movement with ease. You use the word to manipulate the focus of your audience, using 'en concreto' as a powerful transition to highlight the most critical piece of evidence in an argument. You are fully aware of the linguistic evolution that led to the regional split in the construction term and can use this knowledge to adapt your register perfectly in any Spanish-speaking country. Your use of the word is no longer just about 'being specific'; it's about the ontological status of the things you are describing—whether they are 'concretos' (existing in time and space) or 'universales'. You can use the word in high-level literature or technical manuals with the same degree of accuracy. You might even use it ironically or metaphorically, such as describing a person's 'mentalidad de concreto' (a rigid or 'concrete' way of thinking, particularly in Latin America). At this level, 'concreto' is not just a vocabulary word; it is a fundamental building block of your sophisticated cognitive and communicative framework in Spanish.

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

concreto en 30 secondes

Concreto is an adjective meaning specific or tangible. It is the opposite of abstract or vague and is essential for clear communication in Spanish.
In Latin America, the word is also a noun for the building material 'concrete'. In Spain, that material is called 'hormigón', which is a key regional difference.
The phrase 'en concreto' is widely used to mean 'specifically' or 'in particular', helping to transition from general topics to specific examples in conversation.
The word must agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies (concreto, concreta, concretos, concretas) and usually follows the noun it describes.

The Spanish word concreto is a versatile adjective that serves as a cornerstone for precise communication. At its most fundamental level, it describes something that is not abstract, vague, or general, but rather something tangible, specific, or clearly defined. For English speakers, this word presents a fascinating linguistic journey because it functions as both a 'true friend' and a 'partial false friend' depending on the geographical context. In the realm of logic and philosophy, concreto refers to objects or concepts that have a physical existence or a specific instance in reality, as opposed to universal or theoretical ideas. When you ask someone for a 'respuesta concreta,' you are demanding a direct, specific answer that leaves no room for ambiguity. This usage is universal across all Spanish-speaking countries. However, a significant regional variation exists: in most of Latin America, concreto also refers to the building material made of cement, sand, and gravel, which in Spain is almost exclusively called hormigón. Understanding this distinction is vital for learners navigating different dialects.

Specific Context: Used when referring to a particular item or detail among many possibilities. Example: 'En el caso concreto de Juan...' (In Juan's specific case...).
Material Context: In Latin America, it refers to the physical substance used in construction. Example: 'Una viga de concreto' (A concrete beam).
Logical Context: Contrasted with 'abstracto'. It refers to things that can be perceived by the senses.

Necesito que me des un ejemplo concreto para entender el problema.

In everyday conversation, you will hear this word when people are trying to narrow down plans or resolve misunderstandings. It is the antithesis of 'vago' (vague) or 'general'. When a boss asks for a 'plan concreto', they aren't looking for a physical slab of cement; they are looking for a detailed, actionable strategy with dates, names, and numbers. The beauty of this word lies in its ability to ground a conversation. Without 'lo concreto', we are lost in the clouds of theory. Whether you are discussing a 'fecha concreta' (specific date) or a 'hecho concreto' (concrete fact), you are signaling to your listener that you are moving from the realm of the possible to the realm of the definite.

No hables en general, dime algo concreto que haya sucedido.

Furthermore, the phrase 'en concreto' is an essential adverbial locution meaning 'specifically' or 'in particular'. It is used to transition from a broad topic to a specific instance. For example, 'Me gusta la fruta, en concreto las manzanas' (I like fruit, specifically apples). This is a high-frequency phrase in academic, professional, and formal writing. Mastering 'concreto' and its variants allows a speaker to demonstrate a higher level of CEFR proficiency because it involves moving beyond basic descriptors like 'específico' to a more nuanced, multi-functional term that shows awareness of both philosophical and material realities.

Using concreto correctly requires attention to gender and number, as it is a standard adjective. It must agree with the noun it modifies: concreto (masculine singular), concreta (feminine singular), concretos (masculine plural), and concretas (feminine plural). Unlike some adjectives that change meaning based on their position before or after the noun, concreto almost always follows the noun it describes in standard usage, especially when emphasizing specificity. However, in poetic or highly formal contexts, it might precede the noun, though this is rare and can sound slightly unnatural to native speakers in daily life.

Agreement Example (Fem. Sing.): 'Una propuesta concreta' (A specific proposal). Here, 'propuesta' is feminine, so we use 'concreta'.
Agreement Example (Masc. Plur.): 'Pasos concretos' (Concrete/specific steps). 'Pasos' is masculine plural.

Buscamos soluciones concretas para problemas reales.

The phrase en concreto is perhaps the most common way learners will encounter this word. It acts as a connector. If you are talking about your hobbies and want to specify one, you say: 'Me gusta el cine, en concreto el cine de terror'. This usage is synonymous with específicamente or particularmente. It is also important to note that when used as a noun in Latin America (the material), it is always masculine: 'El concreto se está secando'. In Spain, you would say 'El hormigón se está secando'. If you use 'el concreto' as a noun in Spain, people will likely understand you are referring to 'the specific thing' (lo concreto), but it sounds very abstract.

¿Tienes algún plan concreto para este fin de semana?

Another advanced usage involves the verb concretar, which means 'to finalize' or 'to make specific'. For example, 'Debemos concretar la cita' means 'We must finalize/set the specific time for the appointment'. This family of words is essential for business Spanish. Using the adjective concreto often implies a sense of finality and clarity. It removes the 'maybe' or 'perhaps' from a situation. In academic writing, concreto is used to contrast with theoretical frameworks, bringing the reader's attention to empirical data or specific case studies.

You will encounter concreto in a vast array of environments, ranging from the dusty floors of a construction site in Mexico City to the hallowed halls of a university in Madrid. In the media, news anchors often use it to pivot from broad economic trends to specific impacts on the population. For instance, 'La inflación sube, y en concreto, el precio del pan ha aumentado un diez por ciento'. This helps the audience relate to the abstract data through a specific, 'concrete' example. In political debates, candidates frequently challenge each other to be more 'concreto' when their opponents give vague promises.

In Business: 'Necesitamos resultados concretos en el tercer trimestre'. (We need specific results in the third quarter).
In Science: 'El estudio se centra en un grupo concreto de células'. (The study focuses on a specific group of cells).

El arquitecto pidió más concreto para terminar la base del edificio.

In Latin American daily life, particularly in countries like Mexico, Colombia, or Argentina, you will hear concreto used as a noun for the material. You might see signs for 'Venta de concreto premezclado' (Sale of pre-mixed concrete). However, in Spain, those same signs would read 'Hormigón'. This is one of the most distinct lexical differences between the two continents. If you are listening to a podcast about philosophy or linguistics, concreto will appear as the opposite of abstracto. Linguists talk about 'sustantivos concretos' (concrete nouns like 'table' or 'dog') versus 'sustantivos abstractos' (like 'love' or 'freedom').

No tengo una respuesta concreta todavía; necesito investigar más.

In a casual setting, like a group of friends planning a trip, someone might say, 'Ya tenemos el destino, pero falta concretar los días'. Even though this uses the verb form, the adjective concreto is the goal—a specific set of dates. You will also hear it in legal contexts, where 'hechos concretos' (specific facts) are the only things that matter in a courtroom. Lawyers avoid 'generalidades' and focus on the 'caso concreto'. Thus, across all levels of society, the word serves as a tool for precision and physical reality.

The most frequent mistake English speakers make with concreto involves its dual meaning as a material and an adjective. In English, 'concrete' is used for both. In Spanish, as mentioned, Spain uses hormigón for the material. If an English speaker in Madrid says 'El suelo es de concreto', a Spaniard will understand but will immediately recognize the speaker as a foreigner or someone using Latin American Spanish. Another mistake is using concreto when específico or determinado might be slightly more appropriate, although they are often interchangeable. However, concreto carries a stronger sense of 'tangible' or 'final'.

The 'Hormigón' Trap: Mistake: Using 'concreto' for building material in Spain. Correct: 'Hormigón'.
Gender Agreement: Mistake: 'Una idea concreto'. Correct: 'Una idea concreta'. Adjectives must match the noun.

Incorrecto: El puente está hecho de concreto (in Spain). Correcto: El puente está hecho de hormigón.

Confusion also arises with the phrase 'en concreto'. Some learners translate 'in concrete' literally from English when they mean 'in reality' or 'specifically', but they might misplace it in the sentence. 'En concreto' usually comes after a general statement or at the start of a clarifying sentence. Another subtle error is using concreto for 'solid'. While something concrete is often solid, the Spanish word for a solid object (not liquid or gas) is sólido. Use concreto for 'specific' and sólido for the state of matter.

Mal: Tengo un problema específicamente. Bien: Tengo un problema concreto / Tengo un problema en concreto.

Finally, learners sometimes over-rely on concreto when other synonyms would provide better variety. While concreto is perfect for 'specific', using preciso (precise), determinado (determined/particular), or particular (particular) can make your Spanish sound more sophisticated. Avoid using concreto to mean 'actual' in the sense of 'current' (which is actual in Spanish). Something 'concreto' is specific, not necessarily current. For example, 'un momento concreto' refers to a specific moment in time, whether it's in the past, present, or future.

To truly master the semantic field of concreto, one must understand its neighbors. The most direct synonym is específico. In 90% of cases, you can swap them without losing meaning. However, concreto often carries a nuance of 'tangibility' or 'physical reality' that específico lacks. Another close relative is preciso, which implies accuracy and exactness. If you want a 'precise' measurement, use preciso; if you want a 'specific' example, use concreto.

Concreto vs. Específico: 'Concreto' emphasizes the opposite of abstract; 'específico' emphasizes the opposite of general. Often interchangeable.
Concreto vs. Determinado: 'Determinado' is used when you have selected one out of many. 'En un momento determinado' (at a certain/specific moment).
Concreto vs. Hormigón: Crucial regional difference: 'Concreto' (LatAm material) vs 'Hormigón' (Spain material).

Es un detalle preciso que cambia todo el caso concreto.

In more formal or literary Spanish, you might encounter tangible or palpable. These are used when the 'concrete' nature of something is so strong it can almost be felt. For example, 'una prueba tangible' (tangible proof). On the other hand, if you are looking for an antonym, abstracto is the primary choice. 'Vago', 'general', and 'indefinido' also serve as opposites depending on the context. If a plan is not 'concreto', it is 'vago'. If a noun is not 'concreto', it is 'abstracto'.

Pasamos de una idea abstracta a un proyecto concreto.

Finally, consider the word particular. This is often used in the phrase 'en particular', which is a perfect synonym for 'en concreto'. 'Me gusta la música, en particular el jazz'. Using these varied terms will prevent your speech from becoming repetitive and will allow you to tailor your tone to the situation, whether you are writing a formal essay or chatting with a friend about specific plans for dinner.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The philosophical use of 'concrete' vs 'abstract' dates back to the 14th century, while the use of 'concrete' as a construction material only became common in the 19th century.

Guide de prononciation

UK /kɒnˈkreɪ.toʊ/

US /koʊnˈkreɪ.toʊ/

The stress is on the penultimate syllable: con-CRE-to.

Rime avec

discreto secreto completo amuleto boceto respeto objeto sujeto

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing 'cre' like the English word 'cree'. It should be 'eh' like in 'pet'.
Aspirating the 't' at the end. In Spanish, 't' is soft and dental.
Adding a 'w' sound to the final 'o'. It should be a pure 'o' sound.
Pronouncing the 'n' like a French nasal. It must be a clear alveolar 'n'.
Stressing the first syllable like the English 'CON-crete'. Stress the middle syllable.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

Easy to recognize due to the English cognate.

Écriture 3/5

Requires attention to gender/number agreement.

Expression orale 3/5

Important to remember the 'en concreto' phrase for natural flow.

Écoute 2/5

Usually clear, but watch for regional differences in meaning.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

específico cosa ejemplo plan idea

Apprends ensuite

concretar hormigón abstracto determinado preciso

Avancé

ontología concreción materialismo empírico tangibilidad

Grammaire à connaître

Adjective Agreement

La respuesta es concreta; los datos son concretos.

Adjective Placement

Un plan concreto (Standard) vs. Un concreto plan (Poetic/Rare).

Nominalization with 'lo'

Lo concreto es lo que importa ahora.

Adverbial Phrases

'En concreto' functions as an adverbial phrase meaning 'specifically'.

Verb Derivation

The verb 'concretar' follows regular -ar conjugation patterns.

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Exemples par niveau

Quiero un libro concreto.

I want a specific book.

'Libro' is masculine, so we use 'concreto'.

No es una idea concreta.

It is not a specific idea.

'Idea' is feminine, so we use 'concreta'.

¿Tienes un ejemplo concreto?

Do you have a specific example?

A common question in basic learning.

Me gusta el color azul, en concreto el azul claro.

I like the color blue, specifically light blue.

'En concreto' is used to give a specific detail.

Necesito un día concreto para la fiesta.

I need a specific day for the party.

Used for making plans.

El coche es de un modelo concreto.

The car is of a specific model.

Adjective follows the noun.

Dame una respuesta concreta, por favor.

Give me a specific answer, please.

Requesting clarity.

Hay problemas concretos en la casa.

There are specific problems in the house.

Plural agreement: 'problemas' (masc. pl.) + 'concretos'.

Hablamos de un caso concreto de mi trabajo.

We are talking about a specific case from my work.

Used to limit the scope of a conversation.

No tengo planes concretos para las vacaciones.

I don't have specific plans for the holidays.

Negative sentence with plural adjective.

En concreto, me preocupa el examen de mañana.

Specifically, I'm worried about tomorrow's exam.

'En concreto' starting a sentence for emphasis.

La pared es de concreto.

The wall is made of concrete (LatAm).

Noun usage common in Latin America.

Buscamos a una persona concreta para el puesto.

We are looking for a specific person for the position.

Agreement with 'persona' (fem. sing.).

Dime algo concreto que te guste de ella.

Tell me something specific that you like about her.

Using 'algo' (something) with an adjective.

No hay una fecha concreta todavía.

There isn't a specific date yet.

Common expression for unfinished plans.

El profesor dio instrucciones muy concretas.

The teacher gave very specific instructions.

Plural feminine agreement.

Es difícil pasar de la teoría a algo concreto.

It's difficult to move from theory to something concrete.

Contrast between abstract and tangible.

Debemos concretar los detalles del contrato.

We must finalize the details of the contract.

Introduction of the verb 'concretar'.

Me gusta la literatura, en concreto la poesía del siglo XX.

I like literature, specifically 20th-century poetry.

Using 'en concreto' to specify a sub-genre.

El edificio tiene una estructura de concreto armado.

The building has a reinforced concrete structure (LatAm).

Technical term 'concreto armado'.

No se trata de una queja general, sino de algo concreto.

It's not about a general complaint, but about something specific.

Contrast 'general' vs 'concreto'.

La empresa busca resultados concretos este año.

The company is looking for specific results this year.

Business context usage.

¿Podrías ser más concreto con tu petición?

Could you be more specific with your request?

Using 'ser' + adjective to describe a person's speech.

Estudiamos el caso concreto de la crisis de 2008.

We are studying the specific case of the 2008 crisis.

Academic context usage.

La propuesta carece de medidas concretas para el empleo.

The proposal lacks specific measures for employment.

Formal political/economic context.

Para ser más concretos, la reunión empezará a las nueve.

To be more specific, the meeting will start at nine.

Phrase used to introduce specific info.

El filósofo distingue entre lo abstracto y lo concreto.

The philosopher distinguishes between the abstract and the concrete.

Using 'lo' to create a neuter noun.

Las pruebas concretas demuestran su culpabilidad.

The concrete evidence proves his guilt.

Legal context usage.

Me refiero, en concreto, a la página cuarenta del informe.

I am referring, specifically, to page forty of the report.

Parenthetical use of 'en concreto'.

Su estilo es muy concreto y directo, sin adornos.

His style is very concrete and direct, without embellishments.

Describing an artistic or communicative style.

Todavía no se ha concretado nada sobre la fusión.

Nothing has been finalized yet regarding the merger.

Passive 'se' with the verb 'concretar'.

El concreto es un material fundamental en la arquitectura moderna.

Concrete is a fundamental material in modern architecture (LatAm).

Noun usage in an architectural context.

La falta de concreción en su discurso generó desconfianza.

The lack of specificity in his speech generated distrust.

Use of the noun 'concreción'.

El análisis se centra en la realidad concreta del barrio.

The analysis focuses on the concrete reality of the neighborhood.

Sociological context.

Es imperativo concretar las acciones antes del lunes.

It is imperative to finalize the actions before Monday.

High-level professional register.

En este caso concreto, la ley no se aplica de la misma forma.

In this specific case, the law is not applied in the same way.

Legal nuance.

La poesía concreta juega con la disposición visual de las palabras.

Concrete poetry plays with the visual arrangement of words.

Artistic/literary term.

Sus palabras se concretaron en una serie de reformas radicales.

His words materialized into a series of radical reforms.

Reflexive use of 'concretar' meaning 'to materialize'.

No podemos hablar de justicia sin mirar hechos concretos.

We cannot talk about justice without looking at concrete facts.

Philosophical/ethical argument.

El uso del concreto en esta obra desafía las leyes de la gravedad.

The use of concrete in this work defies the laws of gravity (LatAm).

Advanced architectural description.

La ontología Heideggeriana aborda la existencia en su ser concreto.

Heideggerian ontology addresses existence in its concrete being.

High-level philosophical terminology.

Se requiere una mayor concreción de los objetivos estratégicos.

A greater specification of the strategic objectives is required.

Very formal nominalization.

La dialéctica entre lo universal y lo concreto es central en Hegel.

The dialectic between the universal and the concrete is central in Hegel.

Abstract philosophical contrast.

El proyecto se concretará una vez se obtenga la financiación.

The project will come to fruition once financing is obtained.

Future tense of 'concretar' in business.

Aterrizar una idea abstracta en un modelo concreto es un arte.

Landing an abstract idea into a concrete model is an art.

Metaphorical use of 'aterrizar' (to land).

La sustanciación de los cargos depende de pruebas concretas.

The substantiation of the charges depends on concrete evidence.

Technical legal/forensic language.

En lo que a mí respecta, el problema es muy concreto.

As far as I'm concerned, the problem is very specific.

Idiomatic expression 'en lo que a mí respecta'.

La brutalidad del concreto visto define el estilo brutalista.

The brutality of exposed concrete defines the brutalist style (LatAm).

Art history/Architectural critique.

Collocations courantes

caso concreto

plan concreto

ejemplo concreto

resultados concretos

propuesta concreta

concreto armado

acciones concretas

detalles concretos

respuesta concreta

momento concreto

Phrases Courantes

en concreto

— Specifically, in particular. Used to narrow down a topic.

Me gusta la fruta, en concreto la piña.

ir a lo concreto

— To get to the point; to focus on the specific details.

Dejemos de hablar de teorías e ir a lo concreto.

nada concreto

— Nothing specific or definite. Used when plans are still vague.

No hay nada concreto sobre el viaje.

de manera concreta

— In a specific or succinct way.

Explicó el problema de manera concreta.

para ser más concreto

— To be more specific. Used as a transition phrase.

Para ser más concreto, me refiero a tu actitud.

punto concreto

— A specific point or issue.

Ese es el punto concreto que quería tratar.

algo concreto

— Something specific or tangible.

Necesito algo concreto para creerle.

fechas concretas

— Specific dates.

Aún no tenemos fechas concretas para el evento.

medidas concretas

— Specific measures or steps to be taken.

El gobierno anunció medidas concretas contra el paro.

hechos concretos

— Concrete facts or events that actually happened.

Basamos nuestra opinión en hechos concretos.

Souvent confondu avec

concreto vs específico

Very similar, but 'concreto' often implies tangibility or being the opposite of abstract.

concreto vs hormigón

The material 'concrete' in Spain. Using 'concreto' for material in Spain is a regional error.

concreto vs actual

English 'actual' is NOT 'concreto'. English 'actual' is 'real' or 'verdadero'. 'Actual' in Spanish means 'current'.

Expressions idiomatiques

"poner en concreto"

— To put something into specific terms or to finalize it.

Tenemos que poner en concreto nuestras ideas.

neutral

"hablar en concreto"

— To speak specifically or directly.

Si hablamos en concreto, el coste es muy alto.

neutral

"aterrizar en lo concreto"

— To bring abstract ideas down to earth or practical reality.

Después de soñar mucho, aterrizó en lo concreto.

metaphorical

"no tener nada concreto"

— To have no definite plans or information.

Pregunté por el trabajo, pero no tienen nada concreto.

informal

"un caso de concreto"

— In some LatAm regions, used metaphorically for a 'hard' or difficult case (rare).

Ese examen fue un caso de concreto.

slang

"concreto como una piedra"

— Simile used in LatAm to describe something very hard or certain.

Su decisión es concreta como una piedra.

informal

"en el caso concreto de que..."

— In the specific event that...

En el caso concreto de que llueva, iremos al cine.

formal

"ser concreto"

— To be brief and to the point.

Sé concreto, no tenemos mucho tiempo.

neutral

"lo concreto es que..."

— The specific fact is that... / Bottom line is...

Lo concreto es que no tenemos dinero.

neutral

"sin nada concreto"

— Without anything definite.

Se fue de la reunión sin nada concreto.

neutral

Facile à confondre

concreto vs hormigón

Both mean 'concrete' (material).

Hormigón is used in Spain; Concreto is used in Latin America.

El suelo es de hormigón (Spain) / El suelo es de concreto (Mexico).

concreto vs específico

Both mean 'specific'.

Interchangeable, but 'concreto' is more common when contrasting with 'abstract'.

Un caso específico / Un caso concreto.

concreto vs preciso

Both imply detail.

Preciso means 'exact' or 'accurate'. Concreto means 'specific' or 'tangible'.

Un reloj preciso / Un plan concreto.

concreto vs sólido

Both imply something firm.

Sólido refers to the state of matter or strength. Concreto refers to specificity.

Hielo sólido / Argumento concreto.

concreto vs particular

Both mean 'particular' or 'specific'.

Particular often refers to an individual or private thing. Concreto refers to a clear, defined thing.

Una clase particular / Un ejemplo concreto.

Structures de phrases

Quiero + [noun] + concreto/a.

Quiero un libro concreto.

Me gusta [category], en concreto [specific item].

Me gusta la fruta, en concreto la pera.

Necesitamos + [noun plural] + concretos/as.

Necesitamos resultados concretos.

Es difícil + [verb] + algo concreto.

Es difícil decir algo concreto.

En el caso concreto de [noun]...

En el caso concreto de mi hermano...

La concreción de [noun] es fundamental para...

La concreción de la paz es fundamental para el país.

Vamos a concretar + [noun].

Vamos a concretar la cita.

No hay nada concreto.

Sobre el viaje, no hay nada concreto.

Famille de mots

Noms

concreción (specificity/materialization)

concreto (the material - LatAm)

Verbes

concretar (to finalize/make specific)

concretizar (to materialize - LatAm)

Adjectifs

concreto/a (specific/tangible)

concretable (that can be made specific)

Apparenté

hormigón (concrete material in Spain)

especificidad

realidad

tangibilidad

precisión

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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Extremely common in both spoken and written Spanish.

Erreurs courantes

Using 'concreto' for the material in Spain. → El puente es de hormigón.
In Spain, 'hormigón' is the standard word for the material. 'Concreto' is used in Latin America.
Forgeting gender agreement: 'Una respuesta concreto'. → Una respuesta concreta.
'Respuesta' is feminine, so the adjective must also be feminine.
Using 'concreto' to mean 'actual' (current). → La situación actual es difícil.
'Actual' in Spanish means 'current'. 'Concreto' means 'specific'. They are not synonyms.
Placing 'concreto' before the noun in normal speech. → Un ejemplo concreto.
Adjectives that specify or categorize usually follow the noun in Spanish.
Confusing 'concretar' with 'concreto'. → Quiero concretar la cita.
'Concretar' is the verb (to finalize), while 'concreto' is the adjective (specific).

Astuces

Use it for Precision

Whenever you find yourself using the word 'cosa' (thing) or being too general, try to use 'concreto' to force yourself to be more specific. It improves your communication skills instantly.

Match the Gender

Don't forget that 'concreto' must change to 'concreta' for feminine nouns like 'idea', 'propuesta', or 'fecha'. This is a common mistake for English speakers.

Spain vs LatAm

If you are in Spain, use 'hormigón' for construction. If you are in Mexico, Colombia, or Argentina, 'concreto' is the word for the material. Both use 'concreto' for 'specific'.

Business Spanish

Use the verb 'concretar' to sound professional when closing a meeting. '¿Podemos concretar los siguientes pasos?' sounds much better than '¿Qué hacemos ahora?'.

Avoid Repetition

Switch between 'concreto', 'específico', and 'particular' in your writing to avoid repeating the same word too often. This makes your Spanish sound more advanced.

Listen for 'En Concreto'

Native speakers use 'en concreto' as a verbal bridge. When you hear it, pay close attention, because the most important or specific information usually follows it.

Hard as Concrete

Remember that a specific fact is as 'hard' and 'real' as a block of concrete. If it's concrete, it's not a fuzzy cloud.

Be Concise

When someone says 'Sé concreto', they are asking you to stop talking in circles and get to the point. It's a useful phrase to know for efficient conversations.

Concrete Nouns

In grammar class, remember that 'sustantivos concretos' are things you can see or touch (perro, mesa), while 'sustantivos abstractos' are feelings or ideas (amor, libertad).

Artistic Terms

If you visit a modern art museum, you might see 'Arte Concreto'. This refers to art that doesn't represent reality but is a real object in itself.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of a 'CONCRETE' block. It is hard, real, and has a 'CONCRETE' (specific) shape. It's not a cloud (abstract).

Association visuelle

Imagine a gray building block. On one side it says 'Specific' and on the other side it's made of actual 'Concrete'.

Word Web

Específico Real Tangible Hormigón Preciso Determinado Particular Físico

Défi

Try to use 'en concreto' three times today when describing your preferences (e.g., 'I like music, specifically...').

Origine du mot

From the Latin 'concretus', which is the past participle of 'concrescere' (to grow together, to harden). It is composed of 'com-' (together) and 'crescere' (to grow).

Sens originel : Originally meant something that has solidified or condensed from a liquid or gaseous state into a solid form.

Romance (Latin origin). Cognate with English 'concrete', French 'concret', and Italian 'concreto'.

Contexte culturel

No major sensitivities, but be aware of the regional material term to avoid sounding out of place.

English speakers use 'concrete' for both meanings just like Latin Americans, so the transition to Spanish 'concreto' is easy, but they must learn 'hormigón' for Spain.

Poesía Concreta: An avant-garde movement in the mid-20th century (prominent in Brazil and Spanish-speaking countries). Música Concreta: A type of music composition that uses recorded sounds as raw material. El 'caso concreto': A phrase used constantly by Spanish legal scholars and philosophers.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Business Meetings

Objetivos concretos
Plazos concretos
Acciones concretas
Concretar la propuesta

Academic Writing

En este caso concreto
Evidencia concreta
Sustantivo concreto
Análisis concreto

Construction (LatAm)

Mezcla de concreto
Piso de concreto
Viga de concreto
Concreto reforzado

Daily Planning

Nada concreto
Día concreto
Lugar concreto
En concreto, a las...

Legal/Police

Hechos concretos
Pruebas concretas
Sujeto concreto
Delito concreto

Amorces de conversation

"¿Tienes algún plan concreto para este fin de semana o vas a improvisar?"

"¿Cuál es, en concreto, el libro que más ha cambiado tu forma de pensar?"

"Si tuvieras que elegir una ciudad concreta para vivir siempre, ¿cuál sería?"

"¿Crees que es mejor tener metas generales o metas muy concretas?"

"¿Podrías darme un ejemplo concreto de cómo usas el español en tu vida diaria?"

Sujets d'écriture

Describe un recuerdo concreto de tu infancia que te haga sonreír. Sé lo más detallado posible.

Escribe sobre un problema concreto que hayas resuelto recientemente y los pasos que diste.

¿Qué cambios concretos te gustaría ver en tu comunidad en los próximos cinco años?

Define tu concepto de felicidad usando solo ejemplos concretos (objetos, personas, lugares).

Analiza un caso concreto en el que un malentendido causó un problema. ¿Cómo se pudo evitar?

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

While people will understand you, it is not the standard word in Spain. In Spain, you should use 'hormigón'. 'Concreto' for the material is a characteristic of Latin American Spanish. However, as an adjective meaning 'specific', it is perfectly correct in Spain.

In most contexts, they are synonyms. However, 'concreto' is the direct antonym of 'abstracto' (abstract). If you are talking about something tangible versus something theoretical, 'concreto' is better. If you are just picking one item out of a list, 'específico' is also great.

Use it to narrow down a general topic. For example: 'Me gustan los deportes, en concreto el tenis'. It works just like 'specifically' or 'in particular' in English. It can also start a sentence: 'En concreto, el problema es el precio'.

Yes, in 99% of cases. Spanish adjectives that clarify or specify usually follow the noun. Saying 'un concreto plan' sounds very poetic and unusual. Stick to 'un plan concreto'.

Yes, very common! It means 'to finalize' or 'to make something specific'. You will hear it often in business: 'Vamos a concretar los términos del acuerdo' (Let's finalize the terms of the agreement).

It is the technical term for 'reinforced concrete'—concrete that has steel bars inside it for extra strength. This term is used throughout Latin America.

Not usually as a description of their character, unless you mean they are being 'concise' or 'direct' in a specific moment: 'Sé concreto, por favor' (Be brief/specific, please).

The main opposite is 'abstracto'. Other opposites include 'vago' (vague), 'general' (general), and 'difuso' (fuzzy/unclear).

Yes, they are almost identical. 'Concretamente' is an adverb, while 'en concreto' is an adverbial phrase. Both mean 'specifically'.

In Latin America, you say 'selva de concreto'. In Spain, you would likely say 'selva de asfalto' or 'selva de hormigón'.

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