imperfecto en 30 secondes
- 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.
How Formal Is It?
Le savais-tu ?
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.
Guide de prononciation
- 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.
Niveau de difficulté
Very easy to recognize because it is a cognate of 'imperfect'.
Requires attention to gender and number agreement.
Pronunciation is straightforward but the 'ct' cluster needs care.
Easy to hear, but must be distinguished from the grammar tense context.
Quoi apprendre ensuite
Prérequis
Apprends ensuite
Avancé
Grammaire à connaître
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.
Exemples par niveau
Mi dibujo es imperfecto.
My drawing is imperfect.
Masculine singular agreement with 'dibujo'.
La mesa es imperfecta.
The table is imperfect.
Feminine singular agreement with 'mesa'.
Tengo un juguete imperfecto.
I have an imperfect toy.
Adjective follows the noun 'juguete'.
Tus zapatos son imperfectos.
Your shoes are imperfect.
Masculine plural agreement.
Las manzanas son imperfectas.
The apples are imperfect.
Feminine plural agreement.
El círculo no es perfecto, es imperfecto.
The circle is not perfect, it is imperfect.
Contrast between 'perfecto' and 'imperfecto'.
Es un libro imperfecto.
It is an imperfect book.
Standard adjective usage.
Mi español es imperfecto.
My Spanish is imperfect.
Common way for beginners to describe their skills.
El plan de viaje es un poco imperfecto.
The travel plan is a bit imperfect.
Use of 'un poco' to modify the adjective.
Hoy estudiamos el pretérito imperfecto.
Today we study the imperfect preterite.
'Imperfecto' used as a grammatical term.
Compré una camisa imperfecta en la rebaja.
I bought an imperfect shirt at the sale.
Feminine agreement with 'camisa'.
Sus resultados fueron imperfectos pero útiles.
His results were imperfect but useful.
Plural agreement and use of 'pero'.
La casa tiene un diseño imperfecto.
The house has an imperfect design.
Adjective describing the noun 'diseño'.
Ella tiene una visión imperfecta de la realidad.
She has an imperfect vision of reality.
Abstract usage of the word.
Esa estatua es imperfecta por el paso del tiempo.
That statue is imperfect due to the passage of time.
Describing the cause of imperfection.
Los diamantes imperfectos son más baratos.
Imperfect diamonds are cheaper.
Plural masculine agreement.
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.
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.
Vivimos en un mundo imperfecto lleno de retos.
We live in an imperfect world full of challenges.
Common philosophical phrase.
El sistema de votación es imperfecto y necesita mejoras.
The voting system is imperfect and needs improvements.
Describing a process or system.
Ella prefiere la madera natural con sus nudos imperfectos.
She prefers natural wood with its imperfect knots.
Using 'imperfecto' as a positive aesthetic quality.
El ritmo de la canción es ligeramente imperfecto.
The rhythm of the song is slightly imperfect.
Adverb 'ligeramente' modifying the adjective.
Sus recuerdos de la infancia son imperfectos y borrosos.
His childhood memories are imperfect and blurry.
Describing abstract mental states.
Es un héroe imperfecto con el que todos se identifican.
He is an imperfect hero with whom everyone identifies.
Literary description of a character.
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.
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).
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.
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'.
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.
El conocimiento humano siempre será imperfecto y limitado.
Human knowledge will always be imperfect and limited.
Philosophical statement about humanity.
Esa ley es un instrumento imperfecto para resolver el conflicto.
That law is an imperfect instrument for resolving the conflict.
Formal/Legal context.
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.
La democracia es el menos imperfecto de los sistemas políticos.
Democracy is the least imperfect of political systems.
Superlative 'el menos imperfecto'.
El modelo matemático ofrece una representación imperfecta de la realidad física.
The mathematical model offers an imperfect representation of physical reality.
Scientific/Academic usage.
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.
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.
Reconocemos la naturaleza imperfecta de nuestras instituciones.
We recognize the imperfect nature of our institutions.
Formal political discourse.
El contrato era imperfecto porque omitía cláusulas fundamentales.
The contract was imperfect because it omitted fundamental clauses.
Specific legal term 'contrato imperfecto'.
La comunicación entre ellos era imperfecta, llena de malentendidos.
The communication between them was imperfect, full of misunderstandings.
Describing interpersonal dynamics.
El ajuste de la pieza era imperfecto, lo que causaba vibraciones.
The fit of the part was imperfect, which caused vibrations.
Technical/Engineering context.
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.
Su prosa, aunque deliberadamente imperfecta, posee una fuerza lírica innegable.
His prose, although deliberately imperfect, possesses an undeniable lyrical force.
Literary criticism.
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.
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.
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.
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'.
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.
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.
Collocations courantes
Phrases Courantes
— A phrase suggesting that flaws add beauty to something.
No te preocupes por la mancha; lo imperfecto es bello.
— A common saying to remind people that everyone makes mistakes.
No seas tan duro contigo mismo; todos somos imperfectos.
— Refers to a style in art or construction that intentionally leaves flaws.
El mueble tiene un acabado imperfecto muy moderno.
— Describes something that is currently not at its best.
La casa se encuentra en un estado imperfecto.
— Doing something in a way that isn't perfect.
Hablaba el idioma de manera imperfecta.
— A literal or metaphorical description of something valuable but flawed.
Ella es como un diamante imperfecto.
— Reasoning that has some flaws or gaps.
Su argumento se basa en una lógica imperfecta.
— Not seeing something clearly, either physically or mentally.
Tengo una visión imperfecta de lo que pasó.
— In some contexts, a person who doesn't meet certain criteria.
El sospechoso era un sujeto imperfecto para el crimen.
— A beat or pace that is not consistent.
La canción tiene un ritmo imperfecto muy interesante.
Souvent confondu avec
Used for things that are 'wrong' (like a math answer), while 'imperfecto' means 'flawed'.
Used for things that don't work (broken), while 'imperfecto' can still function.
Used when parts are missing, whereas 'imperfecto' means the parts are there but flawed.
Expressions idiomatiques
— Sometimes used to call someone a 'flawed person' in a specific context.
Ese hombre es un imperfecto, no confíes en él.
informal— Doing something in a rough or unfinished way.
Lo arregló a lo imperfecto para salir del paso.
informal— A hyperbolic way to say something is very flawed.
Ese trabajo está más imperfecto que un pecado.
slang— A poetic way to refer to life's struggles.
Así es el imperfecto de la vida.
literary— Adapting to a difficult or flawed situation.
Tuvimos que bailar al son imperfecto de la crisis.
informal— Pointing out the flaws in something.
Siempre tienes que poner el imperfecto a todo lo que hago.
informal— A pun referring to someone who always talks about the past (the tense).
Juan siempre vive en el imperfecto, nunca habla del futuro.
informal— Trying to fix a situation that is already flawed.
Estamos intentando coser lo imperfecto de esta relación.
informal— Having a poor judgment or bad aim.
Tienes un ojo imperfecto para los negocios.
informal— A bad result or a group of people with many flaws.
Este año la clase es una cosecha imperfecta.
informalFacile à confondre
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.
Both describe flaws.
'Defectuoso' is technical and usually negative (broken). 'Imperfecto' can be aesthetic and neutral.
El motor está defectuoso; el acabado es imperfecto.
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).
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.
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.
Structures de phrases
El/La [noun] es imperfecto/a.
El juguete es imperfecto.
Tengo un/una [noun] imperfecto/a.
Tengo una mesa imperfecta.
Lo [adjective] de lo imperfecto es...
Lo bello de lo imperfecto es la verdad.
Es un/una [noun] [adjective] e imperfecto/a.
Es una obra antigua e imperfecta.
A pesar de ser [noun] imperfecto/a...
A pesar de ser un plan imperfecto, funcionó.
La naturaleza imperfecta de [noun]...
La naturaleza imperfecta de la justicia...
[Noun] es, por definición, imperfecto/a.
La memoria es, por definición, imperfecta.
Prefiero [noun] imperfecto/a a [noun] perfecto/a.
Prefiero un libro imperfecto a uno perfecto.
Famille de mots
Noms
Verbes
Adjectifs
Apparenté
Comment l'utiliser
Very common in both everyday speech and academic writing.
-
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.
Astuces
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'.
Mémorise-le
Moyen mnémotechnique
Think of an 'IM-PERFECT-O' (Imperfect Object). It looks like 'imperfect' in English, just add an 'o' for masculine things!
Association visuelle
Imagine a circle drawn by hand that doesn't quite close. That gap represents the 'imperfecto' nature of the shape.
Word Web
Défi
Try to find five things in your room right now that are 'imperfectos' and name them in Spanish.
Origine du mot
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.
Sens originel : Not finished or incomplete.
Indo-European > Italic > Romance > Spanish.Contexte culturel
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'.
Pratique dans la vie réelle
Contextes réels
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
Amorces de conversation
"¿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?"
Sujets d'écriture
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.
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsSí, 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.
Teste-toi 200 questions
Write a sentence describing an 'imperfect drawing'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence using 'imperfecta' with the word 'mesa'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'We live in an imperfect world'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Explain in one sentence why a diamond might be 'imperfecto'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Use 'lo imperfecto' in a sentence about art.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about the 'pretérito imperfecto'.
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Describe an 'imperfect hero' in Spanish.
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Translate: 'The apples are imperfect but sweet'.
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Write a sentence using 'imperfectos' with 'libros'.
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Use 'imperfecto' to describe a plan.
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Translate: 'An imperfect justice'.
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Write a sentence using 'imperfectamente'.
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Describe a 'broken toy' using 'imperfecto'.
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Use 'imperfecto' in a formal context about a system.
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Translate: 'Your Spanish is imperfect but good'.
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Write a sentence about an 'imperfect memory'.
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Use 'imperfecta' to describe a solution.
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Translate: 'The symmetry is imperfect'.
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Write a sentence about an 'imperfect circle'.
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Use 'imperfecto' to describe a rhythm.
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Pronounce: 'imperfecto'.
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Pronounce: 'imperfecta'.
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Say: 'El mundo es imperfecto'.
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Say: 'Las manzanas son imperfectas'.
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Say: 'Estudiamos el imperfecto'.
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Say: 'Lo imperfecto es bello'.
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Say: 'Un plan imperfecto'.
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Say: 'Resultados imperfectos'.
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Say: 'Recuerdos imperfectos'.
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Say: 'Una vida imperfecta'.
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Say: 'El diamante es imperfecto'.
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Say: 'Nadie es perfecto'.
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Say: 'Un sistema imperfecto'.
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Say: 'Justicia imperfecta'.
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Say: 'Acabado imperfecto'.
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Say: 'Ritmo imperfecto'.
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Say: 'Héroe imperfecto'.
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Say: 'Simetría imperfecta'.
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Say: 'Visión imperfecta'.
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Say: 'Círculo imperfecto'.
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Listen to: 'El plan es imperfecto'. What is the plan?
Listen to: 'La mesa es imperfecta'. What is the table?
Listen to: 'Mañana estudiamos el imperfecto'. What are they studying?
Listen to: 'Lo imperfecto me gusta'. Does the person like imperfection?
Listen to: 'Las manzanas son imperfectas'. Are the apples perfect?
Listen to: 'Un amor imperfecto'. What kind of love is it?
Listen to: 'El diamante es imperfecto'. What object is mentioned?
Listen to: 'Resultados imperfectos'. What was the outcome?
Listen to: 'Un héroe imperfecto'. Who is described?
Listen to: 'Justicia imperfecta'. What concept is mentioned?
Listen to: 'Sistema imperfecto'. What is imperfect?
Listen to: 'Recuerdos imperfectos'. What are imperfect?
Listen to: 'Visión imperfecta'. What is imperfect?
Listen to: 'Ritmo imperfecto'. What is imperfect?
Listen to: 'Mundo imperfecto'. What is imperfect?
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The word 'imperfecto' is a versatile adjective meaning 'flawed' or 'unfinished'. It is essential for describing the real world and is a fundamental term in Spanish grammar for talking about the past. Example: 'Un diamante imperfecto' (An imperfect diamond).
- 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.
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.
Exemple
Nadie es perfecto, todos somos imperfectos.
Contenu associé
Plus de mots sur general
a causa de
A2Cela signifie 'à cause de'. On l'utilise pour donner une raison, suivie d'un nom.
a condición de que
B2On condition that, provided that, or given that.
a dónde
A1Vers quel endroit ou quelle destination ?
a lo mejor
A2Peut-être; il se peut que. 'A lo mejor' est très courant à l'oral.
a menos que
B1À moins que. Je n'irai pas à moins qu'il ne vienne. (I won't go unless he comes.)
a no ser que
B2Cela signifie 'à moins que'. C'est une conjonction qui introduit une exception.
a pesar de
B1Malgré; en dépit de. 'Il est venu malgré la pluie.' (He came despite the rain.)
a_pesar_de
B2Malgré la pluie, nous sommes sortis.
a propósito
B21. D'ailleurs / À propos : utilisé pour changer de sujet. 2. Exprès : fait avec intention. 'À propos, as-tu vu mon livre ?' et 'Il l'a fait exprès.'
a raíz de
B2À la suite de; en raison de.
