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B1 noun #5,000 le plus courant 12 min de lecture

qué maravilla

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces qué maravilla en 30 secondes

Explication qué maravilla in your Level:

At the A1 level, learners should recognize qué maravilla as a fixed expression that means 'how wonderful'. Beginners usually learn it as a set phrase to express happiness or to say that something is very good. It is a great way to expand beyond the basic 'muy bien' or 'me gusta'. At this stage, the focus is on the emotional reaction rather than the grammar. Learners should practice saying it with the correct intonation—rising at the end to show excitement. It's useful for reacting to food, nice weather, or a pretty picture. The goal is simply to use it as a polite and enthusiastic response in basic conversations.

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For A2 learners, the use of qué maravilla begins to include the 'de + noun' structure. Students should be able to say things like 'qué maravilla de día' (what a wonderful day) or 'qué maravilla de regalo' (what a wonderful gift). They should also understand that 'maravilla' is a feminine noun and can be used with 'ser' (e.g., 'Este libro es una maravilla'). At this level, learners are expected to distinguish between 'qué maravilla' and 'qué bien', using the former for things that are truly impressive. They should also start to notice the phrase in listening exercises, identifying the speaker's positive tone.

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At the B1 level, students encounter qué maravilla in more complex grammatical environments. The biggest leap is using the phrase to trigger the subjunctive mood in subordinate clauses. For example, 'Qué maravilla que hayamos terminado el proyecto' (How wonderful that we have finished the project). Learners should understand that because 'qué maravilla' expresses a subjective emotional reaction, the following verb often needs the subjunctive. They should also be able to use the phrase in writing, ensuring the accent on 'qué' is always present. B1 learners should also be aware of the difference between the noun 'maravilla' and the adjective 'maravilloso' and use them correctly in context.

B2 learners should use qué maravilla with ease and nuance. They should be able to identify when the phrase is being used sarcastically or ironically based on context and tone. At this level, students should also be familiar with regional alternatives (like 'qué guay' or 'qué chido') and know when it is more appropriate to use the more 'neutral' and 'elegant' 'qué maravilla'. They can use the phrase to lead into more detailed descriptions or arguments. For example, 'Qué maravilla de propuesta; sin embargo, tenemos que considerar el presupuesto'. This shows an ability to balance emotional expression with logical discourse.

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At the C1 level, the learner's use of qué maravilla is sophisticated and stylistically varied. They can use it in literary or academic contexts to describe phenomena or achievements. They understand the etymological roots and can use related verbs like 'maravillarse' fluently (e.g., 'Me maravilla la capacidad de los niños para aprender'). C1 learners can use the phrase in complex rhetorical structures and understand its role in creating a specific atmosphere in storytelling. They are also sensitive to the subtle differences between 'qué maravilla', 'qué prodigio', and 'qué portento', choosing the word that best fits the specific type of 'wonder' being described.

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For C2 speakers, qué maravilla is a tool for precise emotional and intellectual expression. They can use it to critique art, literature, or philosophy, or to express deep existential appreciation. They are masters of the ironic 'qué maravilla' and can use it to convey complex social critiques. At this level, the phrase is perfectly integrated into their spontaneous speech, used with natural rhythm and intonation. They can also explore the history of the word in Spanish literature, from the 'Siglo de Oro' to contemporary works, understanding how its usage and connotations have evolved over centuries.

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

qué maravilla en 30 secondes

Expresses 'How wonderful!' or 'What a marvel!'
Uses 'qué' + 'maravilla' (a feminine noun).
Can be used alone or as 'qué maravilla de [noun]'.
Triggers the subjunctive in following 'que' clauses.

The Spanish phrase qué maravilla is an exclamatory expression used to convey profound admiration, intense pleasure, or a sense of awe. At its core, the word 'maravilla' translates to 'wonder' or 'marvel' in English. When preceded by the exclamatory 'qué' (meaning 'what' or 'how' in this context), it functions as a versatile tool for Spanish speakers to react positively to a wide variety of stimuli. This can range from the physical beauty of a landscape to the emotional relief of hearing good news. Unlike simple adjectives like 'bueno' (good) or 'bonito' (pretty), 'qué maravilla' carries an inherent weight of excellence and singularity. It suggests that the subject of the exclamation is not just pleasant, but truly exceptional.

Emotional Range: The phrase spans from polite appreciation to ecstatic joy. It is frequently heard at art galleries, during gourmet meals, or when witnessing a breathtaking sunset.

¡Qué maravilla de jardín tienes aquí! Todo está tan verde.

In terms of usage, it is universally understood across the Spanish-speaking world. Whether you are in Madrid, Mexico City, or Buenos Aires, saying 'qué maravilla' will immediately signal your high regard for the situation at hand. It is also a very 'safe' phrase, as it lacks the slangy connotations of words like 'guay' (Spain) or 'chido' (Mexico), making it appropriate for both formal and informal settings. Furthermore, the phrase can be used in isolation or followed by a prepositional phrase starting with 'de'. For example, 'qué maravilla de película' translates to 'what a wonderful movie'. This structure allows you to specify exactly what is causing the wonder.

Social Context: It is often used as a response to a favor or a kind gesture. If someone offers you a cold drink on a hot day, responding with '¡Qué maravilla, gracias!' adds a layer of genuine gratitude that 'gracias' alone might miss.

¿Has visto el nuevo museo? ¡Es una maravilla!

Linguistically, it stems from the verb 'maravillar' (to amaze) and the reflexive 'maravillarse' (to be amazed). Understanding this root helps learners realize that the phrase isn't just about the object being good, but about the speaker's internal state of being marvelled. In modern digital communication, you might see it used with many exclamation points or emojis to emphasize the intensity of the feeling.

Literary Use: In literature, 'qué maravilla' is used to heighten the emotional tone of a scene, often appearing in dialogue to reveal a character's vulnerability or capacity for joy.

Al ver el mar por primera vez, el niño exclamó: ¡Qué maravilla!

In summary, 'qué maravilla' is more than just a translation of 'how wonderful'. It is a cultural pillar of Spanish expression that invites the speaker and the listener to pause and appreciate the extraordinary moments of life.

Using qué maravilla correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical flexibility. While it often stands alone as a complete sentence, it frequently integrates into larger structures to provide specific context. The most common expansion is the 'qué maravilla de + noun' pattern. This structure is used to praise a specific object or person. For instance, 'Qué maravilla de casa' implies 'What a wonderful house'. Here, the word 'de' acts as a bridge, linking the exclamation to the subject.

The 'De' Construction: This is the primary way to specify what you are admiring. It is used for food, architecture, people, and abstract concepts like 'idea' or 'suerte'.

¡Qué maravilla de cena habéis preparado! Me encanta todo.

Another advanced way to use the phrase is with a subordinate clause, often requiring the subjunctive mood if it expresses an emotional reaction to a fact. For example, 'Qué maravilla que hayáis venido' (How wonderful that you all have come). The use of the subjunctive 'hayáis venido' is triggered by the emotional expression 'qué maravilla'. This is a key marker of B1 and B2 level Spanish proficiency. You can also use 'maravilla' as a standard noun within a sentence, often with the verb 'ser'. 'Este lugar es una maravilla' (This place is a wonder). Note that when used as a noun, it almost always takes the indefinite article 'una'.

Verbal Integration: The phrase can be used with 'ser' (to be), 'parecer' (to seem), or 'resultar' (to turn out to be). Example: 'Me parece una maravilla que trabajes allí'.

Para mí, poder viajar cada año es una maravilla.

In terms of placement, 'qué maravilla' usually starts the sentence or follows a description. It acts as an anchor for the speaker's sentiment. In conversational Spanish, it is very common to hear it doubled or paired with other exclamations for emphasis: '¡Ay, qué maravilla, por Dios!'.

Plural Usage: While 'qué maravilla' is fixed, the noun 'maravilla' can be pluralized. 'Las siete maravillas del mundo' (The seven wonders of the world).

¡Qué maravilla de vistas! No puedo dejar de mirar.

Finally, consider the impact of the accent on 'qué'. Without the accent, 'que' becomes a conjunction or a relative pronoun, which completely changes the meaning. Always ensure the 'e' has its tilde when writing it as an exclamation. This attention to detail is what separates intermediate learners from advanced speakers. By mastering these patterns, you can express complex emotions with simplicity and elegance.

To truly grasp qué maravilla, one must look at the environments where it naturally flourishes. It is a staple of Spanish social life. Imagine a Sunday afternoon in a bustling city like Seville or Buenos Aires. You are sitting at an outdoor café with friends. A waiter brings a plate of perfectly prepared tapas. One of your friends might lean back, take in the aroma, and sigh, '¡Qué maravilla!'. In this context, it signals contentment and the enjoyment of the moment.

The Culinary Scene: Food is a primary trigger for this phrase. It is used to praise the cook, the presentation, or the flavor of a dish. It's the ultimate compliment for a host.

Al probar la paella, mi abuelo siempre decía: ¡Qué maravilla de arroz!

You will also hear it frequently in cultural settings. At a museum, standing before a masterpiece by Velázquez or Goya, visitors often whisper 'qué maravilla' to express their awe without disturbing the silence. It serves as a linguistic bridge between the viewer and the art. Similarly, at the end of a moving theatrical performance or a concert, the audience might use the phrase to describe the experience to one another as they exit the venue. In the realm of nature and travel, 'qué maravilla' is the go-to exclamation for breathtaking views. Whether it's the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, the rugged peaks of the Andes, or a simple sunset over a local park, the phrase encapsulates the feeling of being small in the face of beauty.

Tourism and Travel: Tour guides often use it to draw attention to landmarks. 'Miren a su derecha, ¡qué maravilla de catedral!'. It helps build excitement and appreciation in the group.

Llegamos a la cima y vimos el valle. ¡Qué maravilla de paisaje!

Interestingly, the phrase also appears in domestic life. A parent might say it when their child shows them a drawing, or a partner might say it when the other has cleaned the house or solved a problem. It acts as a form of positive reinforcement. In the workplace, while less common than in social settings, it can be used to describe a brilliant idea or a successful project outcome.

Media and Film: You will find this phrase in Spanish-language cinema and TV shows (telenovelas) to denote a character's surprise or admiration. It is a classic line for moments of revelation.

¡Qué maravilla que por fin hayas encontrado trabajo!

By paying attention to these contexts, you'll notice that 'qué maravilla' is not just a vocabulary word; it's a social lubricant that smooths interactions and shares joy.

Even though qué maravilla is a relatively straightforward phrase, English speakers often stumble on a few key areas. The most frequent error is the omission of the accent on the 'é' in 'qué'. In Spanish, 'que' (without an accent) is a relative pronoun or a conjunction, whereas 'qué' (with an accent) is used in questions and exclamations. Writing 'que maravilla' is a tell-tale sign of a beginner.

The Accent Error: Always include the tilde. It changes the pronunciation slightly and is grammatically mandatory for exclamations.

Incorrect: que maravilla. Correct: ¡Qué maravilla!

Another common mistake is confusing 'qué maravilla' with 'qué maravilloso'. While both are positive, they function differently. 'Maravilla' is a noun, while 'maravilloso' is an adjective. You can say 'qué maravilla' (what a wonder) or 'qué maravilloso' (how wonderful). However, you cannot say 'qué maravilla paisaje'—it must be 'qué maravilla DE paisaje' or 'qué paisaje tan maravilloso'. Learners often forget the 'de' when using the noun form with another noun. Gender confusion is also prevalent. Because 'maravilla' ends in 'a', it is feminine. Some learners try to change it to 'maravillo' when referring to a man or a masculine object. This is incorrect. The noun 'maravilla' is always feminine, regardless of what it describes. 'Él es una maravilla' (He is a wonder) is perfectly correct.

Gender Consistency: Do not try to masculinize the word. 'Maravillo' does not exist in Spanish. Stick to 'maravilla'.

Incorrect: Este coche es un maravillo. Correct: Este coche es una maravilla.

Sarcasm is another area where learners might struggle. While 'qué maravilla' is overwhelmingly positive, native speakers sometimes use it sarcastically to describe something terrible. For example, if it starts raining when you've just washed your car, someone might say '¡Qué maravilla!'. If a learner doesn't catch the tone, they might be very confused.

Over-Translation: English speakers often try to translate 'how wonderful' literally as 'cómo maravilloso'. This is completely wrong in Spanish. Always use 'qué' for exclamations followed by adjectives or nouns.

Incorrect: Cómo maravilloso. Correct: ¡Qué maravilla! o ¡Qué maravilloso!

Lastly, don't confuse 'maravilla' with 'milagro' (miracle). While a 'maravilla' is wonderful, a 'milagro' is something that defies the laws of nature. If you say 'es una maravilla que hayas llegado a tiempo', it means it's wonderful. If you say 'es un milagro', it implies it was almost impossible. Using the right word adds precision to your speech.

To expand your descriptive repertoire beyond qué maravilla, it is helpful to look at synonyms and how they differ in nuance and register. While 'qué maravilla' is a classic, other words might better fit specific situations. For example, 'qué genial' or 'qué guay' are much more informal and common among younger people or in casual settings. 'Guay' is specifically used in Spain, while 'qué chido' or 'qué bacán' are regional favorites in Mexico and parts of South America respectively.

Informal Alternatives: Use 'qué guay' (Spain), 'qué chido' (Mexico), or 'qué copado' (Argentina) for everyday casual excitement.

¿Tienes entradas para el concierto? ¡Qué guay!

If you want to sound more formal or sophisticated, you might use 'qué espléndido' or 'qué magnífico'. These words carry a sense of grandeur and are often used in professional contexts or when describing high art and luxury. 'Qué espectacular' is another strong alternative, focusing specifically on the visual or dramatic impact of something. For situations involving relief or a positive outcome, 'qué bien' or 'qué alegría' are frequently used. While 'qué maravilla' could also work, 'qué alegría' specifically emphasizes the happiness the news brings you. For instance, 'Qué alegría que te sientas mejor' sounds more personal than 'Qué maravilla que te sientas mejor'.

Emphasis on Emotion: 'Qué alegría' (What joy) and 'Qué suerte' (What luck) are specific types of 'maravillas' that focus on personal impact.

¡Qué alegría verte de nuevo después de tanto tiempo!

In terms of adjectives, 'maravilloso' is the direct counterpart to the noun 'maravilla'. Other useful adjectives include 'estupendo' (great), 'excelente' (excellent), and 'formidable' (terrific). Note that 'formidable' in Spanish is always positive, unlike in some English contexts where it can mean intimidating.

Regional Specifics: In some regions, people use 'una pasada' (Spain) or 'una nota' (Colombia) to describe something amazing. These are very colloquial.

El viaje en globo fue una pasada, ¡tienes que probarlo!

Understanding these alternatives allows you to tailor your Spanish to your audience. While 'qué maravilla' will never be wrong, using 'qué chido' with a group of Mexican friends will help you blend in and show a deeper level of cultural immersion. Conversely, using 'qué magnífico' during a business presentation shows a high level of linguistic control and respect for the formality of the situation.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The word is a 'doublet' of 'mirabilia' in some senses, but it has remained very close to its original Latin meaning of something that causes 'admiratio' (admiration or surprise).

Guide de prononciation

UK /ke ma.ɾa.ˈβi.ʝa/

US /ke ma.ɾa.ˈβi.ʝa/

The primary stress is on the 'qué' and the penultimate syllable of 'maravilla' (vi).

Rime avec

silla mejilla pastilla mantequilla tortilla semilla orilla pesadilla

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing 'll' as a hard 'L'. It should be a 'y' or 'j' sound.
Using an English 'r' sound. It must be a Spanish tap.
Putting the stress on the last syllable of 'maravilla'.
Forgetting the stress on 'qué'.
Pronouncing 'v' as a hard English 'v' (it's softer in Spanish).

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

Easy to recognize in text due to the exclamation marks and the word 'maravilla'.

Écriture 3/5

Requires remembering the accent on 'qué' and the 'll' spelling.

Expression orale 3/5

Requires correct intonation and the Spanish 'r' tap.

Écoute 2/5

Very distinct sound, though it can be spoken quickly.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

qué bien bueno bonito gustar

Apprends ensuite

maravilloso maravillarse increíble espectacular genial

Avancé

prodigio portento sobremanera fascinante sublime

Grammaire à connaître

Exclamatory 'Qué'

¡Qué maravilla! (Requires accent on 'qué')

Noun and Adjective Agreement

Una maravilla (always feminine) vs Un paisaje maravilloso (agrees with noun)

Subjunctive after Emotion

Qué maravilla que ESTÉS aquí.

Preposition 'de' in Exclamations

Qué maravilla DE coche.

Indefinite Article with 'Maravilla'

Es UNA maravilla (not 'es maravilla')

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Exemples par niveau

¡Qué maravilla! Me gusta mucho.

How wonderful! I like it a lot.

Basic exclamatory use.

¡Qué maravilla de helado!

What a wonderful ice cream!

Use of 'de' to specify the object.

¡Qué maravilla de sol!

What wonderful sun!

'Maravilla' is feminine, but 'sol' is masculine.

¡Qué maravilla, gracias!

How wonderful, thank you!

Used as a polite response.

¡Qué maravilla de casa!

What a wonderful house!

Exclaiming about a place.

¡Qué maravilla de flores!

What wonderful flowers!

Plural noun after 'de'.

¡Qué maravilla de música!

What wonderful music!

Abstract noun usage.

¡Qué maravilla, me encanta!

How wonderful, I love it!

Common pairing with 'me encanta'.

Este parque es una maravilla.

This park is a wonder.

Using 'maravilla' as a noun with 'ser'.

¡Qué maravilla de hotel habéis elegido!

What a wonderful hotel you have chosen!

Compound sentence with 'habéis elegido'.

La cena fue una maravilla, gracias.

The dinner was a wonder, thank you.

Past tense 'fue'.

¡Qué maravilla de vistas desde aquí!

What wonderful views from here!

Plural noun 'vistas'.

Es una maravilla poder estar aquí.

It is a wonder to be able to be here.

Infinitive 'poder' following the noun.

¡Qué maravilla que ya es viernes!

How wonderful that it's already Friday!

Introducing a clause with 'que'.

Tu hermana es una maravilla de persona.

Your sister is a wonderful person.

Describing a person.

¡Qué maravilla de tiempo hace hoy!

What wonderful weather it is today!

Using 'hacer' for weather.

¡Qué maravilla que hayáis podido venir!

How wonderful that you were able to come!

Subjunctive 'hayáis podido' after emotion.

Me parece una maravilla que hables tres idiomas.

It seems wonderful to me that you speak three languages.

Subjunctive 'hables' after 'me parece una maravilla que'.

¡Qué maravilla de libro me has recomendado!

What a wonderful book you've recommended to me!

Object pronoun 'me' and past participle 'recomendado'.

Es una maravilla que el examen fuera tan fácil.

It's a wonder that the exam was so easy.

Imperfect subjunctive 'fuera'.

¡Qué maravilla que por fin se haya solucionado!

How wonderful that it has finally been solved!

Present perfect subjunctive 'se haya solucionado'.

Me maravilla que todavía te acuerdes de eso.

It amazes me that you still remember that.

Using the verb 'maravillar' + subjunctive.

¡Qué maravilla de viaje vamos a hacer!

What a wonderful trip we are going to take!

Future 'ir a' construction.

Sería una maravilla que ganaras el premio.

It would be a wonder if you won the prize.

Conditional 'sería' + imperfect subjunctive 'ganaras'.

¡Qué maravilla! Otra vez me he olvidado las llaves.

Wonderful! I've forgotten my keys again.

Sarcastic usage.

Es una maravilla cómo han restaurado este edificio.

It's a wonder how they have restored this building.

Exclamatory 'cómo' within the clause.

¡Qué maravilla de ingenio el de este autor!

What a wonderful wit this author has!

Genitive 'el de' construction.

Me maravilla la paciencia que tienes con los niños.

The patience you have with children amazes me.

Verb 'maravillar' + noun phrase.

¡Qué maravilla que se hayan conservado estas ruinas!

How wonderful that these ruins have been preserved!

Passive reflexive in the subjunctive.

Resulta una maravilla ver cómo evoluciona la tecnología.

It turns out to be a wonder to see how technology evolves.

Verb 'resultar' + noun.

¡Qué maravilla de orquesta! No han fallado ni una nota.

What a wonderful orchestra! They didn't miss a single note.

Double negation 'ni una'.

Es una maravilla que la naturaleza se recupere tan rápido.

It's a wonder that nature recovers so quickly.

Abstract concept with subjunctive.

¡Qué maravilla de prosa! Cada frase es una obra de arte.

What wonderful prose! Every sentence is a work of art.

Literary criticism context.

Me maravilla sobremanera tu capacidad de resiliencia.

Your capacity for resilience amazes me exceedingly.

Adverb 'sobremanera' for emphasis.

¡Qué maravilla! Otro político que no cumple sus promesas.

How wonderful! Another politician who doesn't keep their promises.

High-level irony/sarcasm.

Considero una maravilla que hayamos llegado a un acuerdo.

I consider it a wonder that we have reached an agreement.

Formal verb 'considerar'.

¡Qué maravilla de técnica pictórica la de Velázquez!

What a wonderful painting technique Velázquez had!

Specific artistic terminology.

Es una maravilla digna de ser admirada por todos.

It is a wonder worthy of being admired by all.

Adjective 'digna de' + passive infinitive.

¡Qué maravilla de sutileza en sus argumentos!

What wonderful subtlety in his arguments!

Abstract noun 'sutileza'.

Me maravilla pensar en lo que el futuro nos deparará.

It amazes me to think about what the future will bring us.

Future 'deparará' with 'me maravilla'.

¡Qué maravilla de sinfonía, un auténtico prodigio sonoro!

What a wonderful symphony, a true sonic marvel!

Apposition with 'prodigio'.

Me maravilla que, pese a todo, la humanidad siga adelante.

It amazes me that, despite everything, humanity keeps moving forward.

Concessive 'pese a todo' + subjunctive.

¡Qué maravilla! La burocracia, ese laberinto sin fin.

How wonderful! Bureaucracy, that endless labyrinth.

Sophisticated social irony.

Es una maravilla constatar que aún queda decencia en el mundo.

It is a wonder to confirm that there is still decency left in the world.

Formal verb 'constatar'.

¡Qué maravilla de despliegue retórico el de su discurso!

What a wonderful rhetorical display in his speech!

Complex noun phrase 'despliegue retórico'.

Maravilla es, sin duda, la palabra que mejor define esta obra.

Wonder is, without a doubt, the word that best defines this work.

Inverted sentence structure for emphasis.

¡Qué maravilla que el azar nos haya reunido hoy!

How wonderful that chance has brought us together today!

Philosophical subject 'el azar'.

Me maravilla la impavidez con la que afronta las críticas.

The fearlessness with which he faces criticism amazes me.

High-level noun 'impavidez'.

Collocations courantes

es una maravilla

qué maravilla de

me maravilla que

una verdadera maravilla

las maravillas del mundo

funciona a las mil maravillas

parecer una maravilla

resultar una maravilla

qué maravilla verte

una maravilla para la vista

Phrases Courantes

A las mil maravillas

— To go perfectly or smoothly. Used with verbs like 'ir' or 'funcionar'.

Todo el proyecto salió a las mil maravillas.

Es una maravilla de la naturaleza

— Used to describe something naturally beautiful or impressive. Very common in travel contexts.

Las cataratas son una maravilla de la naturaleza.

Hacer maravillas

— To do wonders or work miracles. Usually refers to someone's skill.

Ese mecánico hace maravillas con los motores viejos.

Maravilla de persona

— Used to describe someone who is exceptionally kind, talented, or good.

Tu tía es una maravilla de persona, siempre ayuda a todos.

Qué maravilla que...

— Used to express happiness about a specific fact, usually followed by the subjunctive.

Qué maravilla que hayas encontrado tus llaves.

No es ninguna maravilla

— Used to say that something is not particularly special or impressive. Often used as a mild critique.

La película está bien, pero no es ninguna maravilla.

La octava maravilla

— Referring to something as the 'eighth wonder of the world'. Often used sarcastically or for extreme praise.

Se cree la octava maravilla del mundo.

Maravilla de la técnica

— A technical marvel. Used for impressive engineering or inventions.

Este reloj es una maravilla de la técnica suiza.

¡Qué maravilla de día!

— A very common way to comment on perfect weather.

¡Qué maravilla de día hace para ir a la playa!

Vivir a las mil maravillas

— To live very well or in great comfort.

Desde que se jubiló, vive a las mil maravillas en el campo.

Souvent confondu avec

qué maravilla vs qué maravilloso

Maravilloso is an adjective. You say 'qué paisaje tan maravilloso' or 'qué maravilla de paisaje'.

qué maravilla vs qué milagro

Milagro is a religious or impossible event. Maravilla is just something very good.

qué maravilla vs qué bien

Qué bien is more generic. Qué maravilla is much more intense and specific.

Expressions idiomatiques

"A las mil maravillas"

— Perfectly, excellently. Used to describe how something is going.

El negocio va a las mil maravillas.

neutral

"Hacer maravillas"

— To work wonders. To achieve great results with limited resources.

La crema hizo maravillas con mi piel.

neutral

"Creerse la octava maravilla"

— To have a very high opinion of oneself; to think one is God's gift to the world.

Desde que lo ascendieron, se cree la octava maravilla.

informal/ironic

"Ser una maravilla"

— To be wonderful or marvelous.

Tu jardín es una maravilla.

neutral

"Pedir maravillas"

— To ask for the impossible or for too much.

No me pidas maravillas, hago lo que puedo.

informal

"Maravillas del mundo"

— Refers to the famous Seven Wonders, or metaphorically to anything spectacular.

Este viaje nos permitió ver las maravillas del mundo.

neutral

"Oler a las mil maravillas"

— To smell absolutely delicious or wonderful.

Ese guiso huele a las mil maravillas.

neutral

"Saber a las mil maravillas"

— To taste absolutely wonderful.

El postre sabía a las mil maravillas.

neutral

"Prometer maravillas"

— To promise great things (often with a hint that they might not come true).

El candidato prometió maravillas pero no hizo nada.

neutral

"Contar maravillas de alguien"

— To speak very highly of someone; to sing someone's praises.

Tu jefe cuenta maravillas de tu trabajo.

neutral

Facile à confondre

qué maravilla vs maravilla

Often confused with the adjective 'maravilloso'.

Maravilla is a noun (wonder), while maravilloso is an adjective (wonderful). You can say 'es una maravilla' but not 'es una maravilloso'.

La ciudad es una maravilla. El viaje fue maravilloso.

qué maravilla vs mirada

Same root 'mir-'.

Mirada means 'a look' or 'a glance'. Maravilla means 'a wonder'.

Me echó una mirada. El cuadro es una maravilla.

qué maravilla vs milagro

Both express something positive and surprising.

Milagro implies divine intervention or impossibility. Maravilla is about excellence or beauty.

Fue un milagro que sobreviviera. Es una maravilla de película.

qué maravilla vs sorpresa

Both can be used for unexpected things.

Sorpresa is neutral (can be bad). Maravilla is always positive (unless sarcastic).

¡Qué sorpresa! (neutral). ¡Qué maravilla! (positive).

qué maravilla vs pasada

Both mean 'amazing' in Spain.

Pasada is very informal/slang. Maravilla is more standard and elegant.

¡Qué pasada de coche! ¡Qué maravilla de coche!

Structures de phrases

¡Qué maravilla!

¡Qué maravilla de [sustantivo]!

¡Qué maravilla de libro!

[Sujeto] es una maravilla.

Este pastel es una maravilla.

Qué maravilla que [subjuntivo].

Qué maravilla que vengas.

Me maravilla que [subjuntivo].

Me maravilla que lo sepas.

Funciona a las mil maravillas.

El reloj funciona a las mil maravillas.

Es una maravilla digna de [infinitivo/sustantivo].

Es una maravilla digna de ver.

Maravilla es constatar que [frase].

Maravilla es constatar que el arte sobrevive.

Famille de mots

Noms

maravilla (wonder)

maravillamiento (amazement - rare)

Verbes

maravillar (to amaze)

maravillarse (to be amazed)

Adjectifs

maravilloso (wonderful)

maravillada (amazed - feminine)

maravillado (amazed - masculine)

Apparenté

mirar (to look)

mirador (viewpoint)

admirable (admirable)

admiración (admiration)

milagro (miracle)

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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Very high in spoken Spanish, high in informal writing.

Erreurs courantes

que maravilla → ¡Qué maravilla!
Missing the accent on 'qué' and the opening exclamation mark.
Qué maravilla paisaje → Qué maravilla de paisaje
Missing the preposition 'de' when describing a specific noun.
Qué maravilla que estás aquí → Qué maravilla que estés aquí
Using the indicative 'estás' instead of the subjunctive 'estés' after an emotional exclamation.
Él es un maravillo → Él es una maravilla
Trying to change the gender of the noun 'maravilla'. It is always feminine.
Cómo maravilla → Qué maravilla
Using 'cómo' instead of 'qué' for an exclamation. 'Cómo' is for 'how' in questions or manners.

Astuces

Always use 'de' with nouns

If you follow the phrase with a specific thing, you must use 'de'. 'Qué maravilla de viaje' is correct; 'Qué maravilla viaje' is wrong.

The 'll' sound

In most dialects, 'maravilla' ends with a 'ya' sound. Don't pronounce the 'll' like an English 'L'.

Vary your vocabulary

While 'qué maravilla' is great, try using 'espectacular' for visual things and 'genial' for plans to sound more like a native.

Use it for compliments

It's a perfect way to praise someone's cooking or their home. It shows you are being polite and enthusiastic.

Opening exclamation marks

Remember to use '¡' at the beginning. It's a unique feature of Spanish that adds clarity to the tone of the sentence.

Detecting irony

If someone says 'qué maravilla' while looking at a mess, they are being sarcastic. Tone is everything!

Subjunctive trigger

If you add a verb after 'que', use the subjunctive. 'Qué maravilla que estés aquí' sounds much better than using the indicative.

Noun vs Adjective

Remember: 'maravilla' is the noun, 'maravilloso' is the adjective. Don't mix them up in sentences with 'ser'.

Universal appeal

This is a 'safe' phrase in any Spanish-speaking country. It has no negative or overly regional connotations.

The 'mil maravillas' idiom

Learn 'a las mil maravillas' to describe things going perfectly. It's a very common and useful idiom.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Imagine a 'Maravilla' is a 'Marvel' in a 'Villa'. If you see a Marvel superhero in your villa, you would say 'Qué maravilla!'.

Association visuelle

Picture a bright, shining star inside a beautiful Spanish villa. The star represents the 'wonder' (maravilla).

Word Web

maravilla maravilloso maravillar asombro belleza excelencia prodigio milagro

Défi

Try to use 'qué maravilla' three times today: once for something you eat, once for something you see, and once for a piece of good news.

Origine du mot

Derived from the Latin 'mirabilia', which is the neuter plural of 'mirabilis' (wonderful, strange, remarkable). It shares the same root as 'mirror' and 'mirage', all relating to the act of looking or seeing something remarkable.

Sens originel : In Latin, 'mirabilia' literally meant 'things to be wondered at'. Over time, it evolved into the singular feminine noun 'maravilla' in Spanish.

Romance (Latinate)

Contexte culturel

The phrase is universally positive and safe to use. However, be aware of tone to avoid sounding sarcastic if you don't mean to be.

English speakers might find the phrase 'over the top', but in Spanish, it is a standard level of politeness and enthusiasm.

Alicia en el país de las maravillas (Alice in Wonderland) Las siete maravillas del mundo (The Seven Wonders of the World) Maravilla (a famous Spanish film and musical genre reference)

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Eating at a restaurant

¡Qué maravilla de comida!
El postre es una maravilla.
Sabe a las mil maravillas.
¡Qué maravilla de servicio!

Visiting a museum

¡Qué maravilla de cuadro!
Esta escultura es una maravilla.
¡Qué maravilla de colores!
Es una maravilla de técnica.

Hearing good news

¡Qué maravilla que te hayan dado el puesto!
¡Qué maravilla, me alegro mucho!
¡Qué maravilla de noticia!
Es una maravilla verte tan feliz.

Looking at nature

¡Qué maravilla de puesta de sol!
Este bosque es una maravilla.
¡Qué maravilla de aire puro!
Vaya maravilla de vistas.

Appreciating a person

Tu hijo es una maravilla.
¡Qué maravilla de persona eres!
Es una maravilla trabajar contigo.
¡Qué maravilla de paciencia tienes!

Amorces de conversation

"¿Has visto el nuevo jardín del centro? ¡Es una maravilla!"

"¡Qué maravilla de tiempo hace hoy, ¿verdad?!"

"Me han dicho que el concierto de anoche fue una maravilla, ¿fuiste?"

"¡Qué maravilla que por fin podamos vernos después de tanto tiempo!"

"¿No te parece una maravilla cómo ha quedado la reforma de la oficina?"

Sujets d'écriture

Escribe sobre una maravilla de la naturaleza que hayas visitado recientemente.

¿Qué cosa de tu vida diaria consideras que es una maravilla y por qué?

Describe una comida que te haya parecido una maravilla absoluta.

Escribe sobre una persona que sea una maravilla en tu vida.

¿Qué maravilla tecnológica es la que más utilizas y cómo te ayuda?

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Yes, it is very common. You can say 'Eres una maravilla' or 'Tu hijo es una maravilla'. It means the person is wonderful, kind, or talented. It is a very high compliment in Spanish culture.

It is always 'qué maravilla'. The word 'maravilla' is a feminine noun and does not change its ending to 'o', even if you are talking about a man or a masculine object. 'Maravillo' is not a word in Spanish.

Yes, in writing, when 'qué' is used in an exclamation or a question, it must have a tilde (accent mark). Writing 'que maravilla' without the accent is a common spelling mistake for learners.

You use 'de' when you want to specify what you are exclaiming about. For example, '¡Qué maravilla de casa!' (What a wonderful house!). If you just say '¡Qué maravilla!', you are reacting to something already known in the context.

Yes, native speakers often use it sarcastically. If something goes wrong, they might say '¡Qué maravilla!' with a flat or annoyed tone. This is similar to saying 'Oh, great!' in English when something bad happens.

It is neutral to slightly informal. It is perfectly acceptable in a professional setting to praise a job well done, but it is also very common in casual conversations with family and friends.

'Qué bien' is a simple 'that's good' or 'how great'. 'Qué maravilla' is much stronger, expressing awe, deep admiration, or a sense that something is truly exceptional or beautiful.

You can follow it with 'que' and a clause. Usually, this requires the subjunctive mood. For example: 'Qué maravilla que hayamos ganado' (How wonderful that we have won). The emotion triggers the subjunctive.

The exclamation '¡Qué maravilla!' is almost always singular. However, the noun 'maravilla' can be pluralized, as in 'Las siete maravillas del mundo' or 'Sus cuadros son unas maravillas'.

Yes, 'qué maravilla' is a universal Spanish expression. While some countries have their own slang (like 'guay' or 'chido'), 'qué maravilla' is understood and used everywhere.

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