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A1 noun #2,800 가장 일반적인 13분 분량

Primo

연습하기 예시 노트와 팁 Primo 30초 만에
설명 Primo in your Level:
At the A1 beginner level, the word 'primo' is introduced as a core component of basic family vocabulary. Learners at this stage are primarily focused on identifying immediate and extended family members to describe their personal lives. 'Primo' is taught simply as the Spanish translation for 'cousin' (specifically a male cousin). The primary learning objective is to memorize the word, understand its gendered counterpart 'prima' (female cousin), and use it in simple, declarative sentences. Students learn to combine 'primo' with basic possessive adjectives like 'mi' (my) and 'tu' (your), and numbers to state how many cousins they have. Typical A1 exercises involve drawing family trees and labeling the relationships, such as identifying that the son of an aunt (tía) is a 'primo'. The grammatical focus is heavily on basic noun-adjective agreement, ensuring that learners say 'mi primo es alto' (my cousin is tall) and not 'mi primo es alta'. At this stage, the cultural nuances and slang meanings are generally omitted to avoid confusing the learner, keeping the focus strictly on literal, genealogical translation and basic sentence construction.
As learners progress to the A2 elementary level, their use of the word 'primo' expands beyond simple identification to describing relationships, routines, and past events. At this stage, students are expected to use 'primo' in more complex sentences, incorporating a wider variety of verbs and tenses, such as the preterite and imperfect, to talk about childhood memories or recent family gatherings. They learn to describe their cousins' physical appearances, personalities, and professions in greater detail. The concept of pluralization becomes more solidified, with learners confidently using 'los primos' to refer to a mixed-gender group of cousins. A2 learners also begin to understand the use of the personal 'a' when 'primo' is the direct object of a verb, such as in 'Ayer vi a mi primo' (Yesterday I saw my cousin). The vocabulary surrounding 'primo' grows to include related activities, like 'jugar con mis primos' (playing with my cousins) or 'visitar a mis primos' (visiting my cousins). While the focus remains on the literal meaning, A2 students start to grasp the importance of the extended family in Hispanic cultures through reading short texts and listening to dialogues about family life.
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At the B1 intermediate level, the understanding of 'primo' deepens significantly, incorporating both linguistic nuance and cultural context. Learners are now expected to discuss family dynamics, traditions, and the social importance of the extended family in Spanish-speaking countries. The vocabulary expands to include specific terms like 'primo hermano' (first cousin) and 'primo segundo' (second cousin), allowing for more precise genealogical descriptions. B1 students can express opinions and emotions regarding their cousins, using the subjunctive mood to state hopes or doubts, such as 'Espero que mi primo venga a la fiesta' (I hope my cousin comes to the party). Furthermore, this is the level where regional variations and colloquialisms are formally introduced. Learners are taught that in certain Latin American countries, particularly Mexico, 'primo' can be used as a friendly term of address among unrelated peers. This introduction to sociolinguistics helps students understand that Spanish is not a monolithic language, but a diverse collection of regional dialects. They practice these nuances through role-plays and authentic listening materials, such as podcasts or interviews, where 'primo' is used in various contexts.
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Reaching the B2 upper-intermediate level, learners possess a sophisticated command of the word 'primo' and its multifaceted applications. They can seamlessly navigate between its literal, genealogical meaning and its diverse colloquial uses across different regions. At this stage, the Peninsular Spanish slang meaning of 'primo'—referring to a gullible person or a 'sucker'—is thoroughly explored. Students learn idiomatic expressions such as 'hacer el primo' (to act like a fool or be taken advantage of) and can use them appropriately in conversational contexts. B2 learners are capable of engaging in complex debates and discussions about family structures, societal changes, and cultural identity, using 'primo' as a focal point to illustrate broader sociological concepts. They can analyze literature and media where the term is used to establish character relationships or convey subtle social hierarchies. Grammatically, they use 'primo' effortlessly with advanced structures, including relative clauses and passive voice. The focus at B2 is on achieving fluency and cultural appropriateness, ensuring that the learner knows exactly when, where, and how to use 'primo' depending on the specific Spanish-speaking audience they are interacting with.
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At the C1 advanced level, the learner's relationship with the word 'primo' is highly nuanced, approaching the intuitive understanding of a native speaker. C1 students delve into the etymological roots of the word, understanding its derivation from Latin and its historical evolution within the Spanish language. They can comprehend and produce highly complex, abstract discourse involving family ties, inheritance laws, and historical genealogies where 'primo' is a critical term. At this level, learners are exposed to specialized vocabulary, such as 'primo carnal' (blood cousin), and can navigate formal, legal, and academic texts with ease. They possess a deep sociolinguistic awareness, effortlessly code-switching between formal genealogical usage and regional street slang depending on the register of the conversation. C1 learners can appreciate the subtle irony, humor, or sarcasm when 'primo' is used in literature, political satire, or colloquial banter. They are also capable of writing detailed essays or giving presentations on the shifting dynamics of the 'familia extendida' in the modern Hispanic world, using 'primo' as a key sociolinguistic marker to articulate complex cultural observations.
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At the C2 mastery level, the comprehension and usage of 'primo' are virtually indistinguishable from that of an educated native speaker. C2 learners possess an exhaustive knowledge of every conceivable nuance, idiom, regionalism, and historical application of the word. They can effortlessly deconstruct classic Spanish literature, such as the works of Cervantes or García Márquez, analyzing the socio-political implications of cousin relationships within the narratives. In highly specialized fields, such as genetics, anthropology, or historical genealogy, they can use terms related to 'primo' with absolute precision. They understand the subtle shifts in meaning that occur when 'primo' is used as an adjective (meaning 'first' or 'prime', though less common than 'primero') versus a noun. C2 learners can engage in sophisticated wordplay, puns, and rhetorical devices involving the word. Their cultural competence is absolute; they instinctively know the exact emotional weight and social implication of calling someone 'primo' in any specific barrio of Madrid, neighborhood of Mexico City, or village in the Andes. At this pinnacle of language acquisition, 'primo' is not just a vocabulary word, but a fully integrated cultural concept.
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연습하기 예시 노트와 팁

Primo 30초 만에

  • A male cousin, the son of an aunt or uncle, requiring the feminine 'prima' for a female cousin.
  • A highly common word essential for discussing the extended family, which is very important in Hispanic cultures.
  • In Spain, it is used as slang to describe a gullible person, a fool, or someone easily tricked.
  • In Mexico and other parts of Latin America, it is used as a friendly greeting for a close buddy.
The Spanish noun 'primo' is a fundamental kinship term that primarily designates a cousin, specifically the male child of one's aunt or uncle. Understanding the concept of 'primo' is absolutely essential for navigating the complex and highly valued family structures inherent in Hispanic and Latino cultures across the globe. In these vibrant societies, the extended family, often referred to as the 'familia extendida', plays a profoundly pivotal role in daily life, providing robust social support networks, shaping cultural identity, and influencing personal decisions.
Genealogical Definition
A blood relative sharing common grandparents but not parents.
The word 'primo' itself derives from the Latin 'consobrinus' or 'primus', indicating a close blood relationship that has been recognized and categorized since antiquity. When we delve deeply into the semantics of 'primo', we uncover a rich, intricate tapestry of familial bonds that extend far beyond the traditional nuclear family model.

Él es mi primo hermano, el hijo de la hermana de mi madre.

In many Spanish-speaking countries, cousins are frequently raised alongside siblings, sharing similar life experiences, educational milestones, and daily social interactions. This close physical and emotional proximity fosters a bond that is frequently just as strong, if not stronger, than that between brothers and sisters. Consequently, the term 'primo' carries significant emotional weight, symbolizing enduring loyalty, a shared personal history, and unconditional familial support. Furthermore, the usage of 'primo' is not strictly limited to literal blood relatives.
Colloquial Usage
Used to address a close friend or companion in certain dialects.
In various regional dialects and colloquial contexts, 'primo' can be employed as a warm term of endearment or camaraderie among close friends, particularly in countries like Mexico, where calling someone 'primo' signifies a deep level of trust, mutual respect, and brotherly affection.

¡Qué onda, primo! ¿Cómo has estado?

Conversely, in Spain, the term can sometimes take on a surprisingly pejorative connotation in street slang, referring to someone who is easily deceived, gullible, or a 'sucker'.

No seas primo y no pagues tanto por eso.

This fascinating dichotomy in meaning highlights the dynamic and multifaceted nature of the Spanish language, where context, tone of voice, and regional variations heavily influence the interpretation of a single, seemingly simple word. To fully grasp the essence of 'primo', language learners must actively immerse themselves in the cultural nuances that shape its everyday usage. For instance, understanding the subtle distinction between 'primo hermano' (first cousin) and 'primo segundo' (second cousin) is crucial for accurately mapping out complex family trees and articulating precise genealogical relationships in conversation.
Diminutive Form
Primito, used for young cousins or to express deep affection.
The morphological adaptability of 'primo' also allows for the creation of diminutive forms, such as 'primito', which conveys deep affection and is often used when referring to younger cousins or expressing tender endearment.

Mi primito acaba de aprender a caminar hoy.

In academic, legal, and formal settings, 'primo' maintains its strict genealogical definition, serving as a vital component of demographic studies, inheritance documents, and genealogical research. The sociolinguistic implications of 'primo' reveal how language inherently reflects and reinforces societal values, particularly the paramount importance of family cohesion in Hispanic cultures.

El testamento nombra a su primo como heredero principal.

As learners progress from beginner A1 to advanced C2 levels, their comprehension of 'primo' will naturally evolve from a simple, direct vocabulary translation to a profound appreciation of its deep cultural resonance and varied applications.
Using the word 'primo' correctly in Spanish requires a solid understanding of gender and number agreement, as well as an awareness of the possessive adjectives that frequently accompany kinship terms. Because Spanish is a heavily inflected language, nouns must agree in gender and number with the articles and adjectives that modify them.
Gender Agreement
Primo (male), Prima (female).
The base form 'primo' ends in '-o', which is the standard marker for masculine nouns in Spanish. Therefore, when referring to a male cousin, you use 'el primo' (the male cousin) or 'un primo' (a male cousin).

Juan es el primo de María.

If you are referring to a female cousin, the '-o' changes to '-a', resulting in 'la prima' (the female cousin) or 'una prima' (a female cousin). This rule of masculine dominance in pluralization is a fundamental aspect of Spanish grammar. So, 'los primos' can mean 'the male cousins' or 'the cousins (mixed group)'. If you are referring exclusively to a group of female cousins, you must use 'las primas'.
Number Agreement
Primos (plural masculine/mixed), Primas (plural female).
Beyond basic articles, 'primo' is most frequently used with possessive adjectives to indicate whose family member is being discussed.

Mi primo vive en Madrid.

The possessive adjectives 'mi' (my), 'tu' (your, informal), 'su' (his/her/your formal/their), 'nuestro/nuestra' (our), and 'vuestro/vuestra' (your plural, informal Spain) must also agree in number with the noun.

Nuestros primos vienen a cenar esta noche.

Notice how 'nuestro' becomes 'nuestros' to match the plural 'primos'. When constructing sentences, 'primo' typically functions as the subject or the direct/indirect object.
Syntax Position
Usually follows the possessive adjective and precedes descriptive adjectives.
For example, in the sentence 'Veo a mi primo' (I see my cousin), 'primo' is the direct object, and because it refers to a specific person, it requires the personal 'a'. Adjectives used to describe a cousin generally follow the noun, as in 'mi primo mayor' (my older cousin) or 'mi prima pequeña' (my little cousin).

Ayer visité a mi primo enfermo en el hospital.

In terms of extended relationships, Spanish uses specific phrasing. A first cousin is a 'primo hermano', literally translating to 'cousin brother', emphasizing the closeness of the bond. A second cousin is a 'primo segundo', a third cousin is a 'primo tercero', and so forth.

Nosotros somos primos hermanos por parte de madre.

When using 'primo' as a slang term for a fool in Spain, it is often used with the verb 'hacer' (to make/do) or 'ser' (to be). For example, 'hacer el primo' means to act like a fool or to allow oneself to be taken advantage of. 'Ser un primo' means to be a gullible person. Understanding these grammatical and syntactic structures ensures that learners can communicate effectively and accurately about their family networks and comprehend colloquial nuances in various Spanish-speaking regions.
The word 'primo' is ubiquitous across the entire Spanish-speaking world, echoing through the halls of homes, bustling street markets, television dramas, and modern literature. Its primary, literal meaning as 'cousin' is universally understood and utilized from the southern tip of Argentina to the northern borders of Mexico, and across the ocean in Spain and Equatorial Guinea.
Domestic Settings
Heard daily in households during family gatherings and meals.
You will most frequently encounter 'primo' in domestic settings, particularly during family reunions, holidays like Christmas (Navidad) or Easter (Semana Santa), and weekend gatherings where extended families congregate to share food and stories.

Todos mis primos vinieron a la fiesta de cumpleaños.

In these environments, 'primo' is spoken with warmth and familiarity. However, the geographic diversity of the Spanish language has birthed fascinating colloquial variations of the word. In Mexico, particularly in the northern states like Nuevo León and Chihuahua, 'primo' is frequently used as a friendly, informal greeting among men who are not related by blood. It functions similarly to 'bro', 'dude', or 'mate' in English.

¿Qué pasa, primo? Vamos por unas cervezas.

This usage underscores a cultural tendency to extend familial warmth to close social circles.
Spanish Slang
In Spain, it can mean a gullible person or a dupe.
Conversely, if you travel to Spain, you must be acutely aware of a very different colloquial application. In Peninsular Spanish slang, calling someone a 'primo' can be an insult, implying that the person is naive, easily tricked, or a 'sucker'.

Me cobraron el doble, me vieron cara de primo.

The phrase 'hacer el primo' is commonly heard in Spain to describe a situation where someone has been taken advantage of or has done something foolish for no reward. Beyond casual conversation, 'primo' frequently appears in pop culture. Telenovelas (soap operas), which are immensely popular throughout Latin America, heavily feature complex family dynamics where 'primos' often find themselves entangled in dramatic plotlines involving inheritance, secret romances, or family feuds.

En la telenovela, ella se enamoró de su primo lejano.

In music, particularly in genres like Reggaeton, Bachata, and Regional Mexican music, artists frequently shout out their 'primos' (meaning their close crew or actual family) in their lyrics.
Media & Literature
Commonly found in family-centric novels and television scripts.
In literature, renowned authors like Gabriel García Márquez use terms like 'primo' to weave the intricate, multi-generational family trees that characterize magical realism.

El personaje principal buscó refugio en la casa de su primo.

Therefore, whether you are listening to a street vendor in Mexico City, watching a drama from Bogotá, or reading a novel from Madrid, 'primo' is a word that constantly surfaces, reflecting the deep-seated importance of kinship and the vibrant evolution of colloquial speech across the vast Spanish-speaking diaspora.
When learning the word 'primo', students frequently encounter several stumbling blocks related to gender agreement, false cognates, and regional slang misinterpretations. Because 'primo' is introduced early in the A1 curriculum, these foundational errors can persist if not corrected promptly.
Gender Confusion
Using 'primo' for a female cousin instead of 'prima'.
The most prevalent mistake among beginners is failing to adjust the gender of the noun to match the person being described. English speakers are accustomed to the gender-neutral word 'cousin', which applies to both males and females.

Incorrecto: Ella es mi primo. Correcto: Ella es mi prima.

It is imperative to remember that 'primo' strictly refers to a male cousin, while 'prima' refers to a female cousin. Another frequent error occurs with pluralization, specifically when referring to a mixed-gender group of cousins.
Pluralization Error
Saying 'primos y primas' unnecessarily instead of just 'primos'.
While saying 'mis primos y mis primas' is grammatically correct, it is redundant in Spanish. The masculine plural 'primos' acts as an inclusive term for a group containing both male and female cousins.

Tengo muchos primos (hombres y mujeres).

Students also struggle with the false friend aspect of the word 'primo' when encountering it in mathematical or commercial contexts. The English word 'prime' (as in prime rib, prime time, or Amazon Prime) does not translate to 'primo' in Spanish. 'Prime' usually translates to 'principal', 'de primera', or 'excelente'.

El siete es un número primo.

In this specific mathematical context, 'primo' translates to 'prime', which can confuse learners who only know it as 'cousin'. Furthermore, misinterpreting regional slang is a major pitfall for intermediate and advanced learners.
Slang Misuse
Using the Spanish insult 'primo' in Latin America, or vice versa.
A student who learned Spanish in Mexico might travel to Spain and affectionately call a new acquaintance 'primo', intending to be friendly. However, the Spanish local might take offense, interpreting it as being called a 'sucker' or a fool.

En España, no le digas primo a un desconocido.

Conversely, a student who learned Peninsular Spanish might hear Mexicans calling each other 'primo' and mistakenly assume they are insulting each other or that they are all literally related.

En México, '¡Qué onda, primo!' es un saludo amistoso.

Finally, learners often forget to use the personal 'a' when 'primo' is the direct object of a sentence. Because a cousin is a specific human being, the personal 'a' is required. Saying 'Visito mi primo' is incorrect; it must be 'Visito a mi primo'. By consciously addressing these common mistakes regarding gender, false cognates, regionalisms, and syntax, learners can significantly improve their fluency and cultural accuracy.
When expanding your Spanish vocabulary around family and relationships, it is highly beneficial to understand words that are semantically similar or related to 'primo'. The Spanish language offers a rich lexicon for describing kinship, and distinguishing between these terms will elevate your conversational precision.
Pariente
A general term for any relative or family member.
The most encompassing synonym for 'primo' in a broad sense is 'pariente', which translates to 'relative'. While 'primo' specifies a cousin, 'pariente' can refer to an uncle, a second cousin, a great-aunt, or any blood relation.

En la boda había más de cien parientes.

Another highly common and similar word is 'familiar'. As a noun, 'un familiar' means a family member. It is often used in more formal or medical contexts, such as when a doctor asks to speak with 'un familiar del paciente' (a family member of the patient).

Mi primo es mi familiar más cercano en esta ciudad.

Within the immediate family tree, the words 'tío' (uncle) and 'sobrino' (nephew) are closely linked to 'primo'. A 'primo' is the son of your 'tío', and to your 'tío', you are a 'sobrino'.
Hermano
Brother; often used alongside primo as 'primo hermano' (first cousin).
The word 'hermano' (brother) is also conceptually similar, especially considering that in many Hispanic cultures, the bond between cousins is as tight as that between siblings. This is linguistically reflected in the term 'primo hermano' (first cousin), which literally merges the two concepts.

Nos criamos juntos, él es más un hermano que un primo.

In terms of colloquial usage, where 'primo' means 'buddy' or 'friend' (like in Mexico), similar slang words include 'cuate', 'güey', 'compa', or 'carnal'. If you are using 'primo' in the Spanish slang sense of a 'fool' or 'sucker', similar words would be 'tonto', 'ingenuo', 'pardillo', or 'pringao'.

No seas pardillo, te están engañando como a un primo.

Cuñado
Brother-in-law; another common family term of the same generation.
Another term of the same generational level is 'cuñado' (brother-in-law). While not related by blood like a 'primo', a 'cuñado' occupies a similar social space in family gatherings, representing a peer within the extended family structure.

Mi primo y mi cuñado se llevan muy bien.

By familiarizing yourself with these related terms—pariente, familiar, tío, sobrino, hermano, and various regional slang equivalents—you build a robust semantic network around the word 'primo', allowing for much more nuanced, accurate, and culturally appropriate communication in Spanish.

How Formal Is It?

난이도

알아야 할 문법

Noun-adjective gender agreement

Possessive adjectives (mi, tu, su)

Pluralization of nouns ending in vowels

The personal 'a' with direct objects

Definite and indefinite articles

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수준별 예문

1

Mi primo se llama Carlos.

My cousin's name is Carlos.

Uses basic possessive 'mi' and present tense.

2

Él es mi primo.

He is my cousin.

Basic subject pronoun 'él' with the verb 'ser'.

3

Tengo un primo en Madrid.

I have a cousin in Madrid.

Uses the verb 'tener' to indicate family relations.

4

Mi primo es alto.

My cousin is tall.

Masculine adjective 'alto' agrees with 'primo'.

5

El hijo de mi tía es mi primo.

The son of my aunt is my cousin.

Defines the relationship using basic vocabulary.

6

Mis primos son divertidos.

My cousins are fun.

Pluralization: 'mis', 'primos', 'son', 'divertidos'.

7

Juego con mi primo.

I play with my cousin.

Uses the preposition 'con' (with).

8

¿Cuántos primos tienes?

How many cousins do you have?

Question formation with 'cuántos' agreeing with 'primos'.

1

Ayer visité a mi primo en el hospital.

Yesterday I visited my cousin in the hospital.

Uses the preterite tense and the personal 'a'.

2

Mi primo mayor estudia en la universidad.

My older cousin studies at the university.

Uses the comparative adjective 'mayor'.

3

Cuando era niño, jugaba mucho con mis primos.

When I was a boy, I used to play a lot with my cousins.

Uses the imperfect tense for habitual past actions.

4

Le compré un regalo a mi primo por su cumpleaños.

I bought a gift for my cousin for his birthday.

Uses the indirect object pronoun 'le'.

5

Mi primo y yo vamos al cine todos los viernes.

My cousin and I go to the movies every Friday.

Compound subject 'Mi primo y yo' takes the 'nosotros' verb form.

6

No veo a mis primos desde el año pasado.

I haven't seen my cousins since last year.

Uses 'desde' to indicate a point in time.

7

Mi primo trabaja como ingeniero en una fábrica.

My cousin works as an engineer in a factory.

Describes professions using 'trabaja como'.

8

¿Vas a invitar a tu primo a la fiesta?

Are you going to invite your cousin to the party?

Uses the 'ir a + infinitive' structure for future plans.

1

Espero que mi primo pueda venir a la boda.

I hope my cousin can come to the wedding.

Uses the present subjunctive 'pueda' after 'espero que'.

2

Mi primo hermano se va a casar el próximo mes.

My first cousin is getting married next month.

Introduces the specific term 'primo hermano'.

3

En México, a veces le dicen 'primo' a un buen amigo.

In Mexico, sometimes they call a good friend 'primo'.

Explains a cultural colloquialism.

4

Me llevo muy bien con todos mis primos por parte de madre.

I get along very well with all my cousins on my mother's side.

Uses the idiom 'llevarse bien' and 'por parte de'.

5

Aunque somos primos lejanos, nos mantenemos en contacto.

Even though we are distant cousins, we keep in touch.

Uses the concessive conjunction 'aunque' and 'primos lejanos'.

6

Mi primo me recomendó este restaurante porque la comida es excelente.

My cousin recommended this restaurant to me because the food is excellent.

Uses indirect object pronoun with a past tense verb.

7

De pequeño, mi primo era muy travieso, pero ahora es muy tranquilo.

As a child, my cousin was very naughty, but now he is very calm.

Contrasts past imperfect with present tense.

8

Si mi primo tuviera dinero, viajaría por todo el mundo.

If my cousin had money, he would travel all over the world.

Uses the second conditional (imperfect subjunctive + conditional).

1

No hagas el primo comprando ese coche usado; es una estafa.

Don't be a sucker buying that used car; it's a scam.

Uses the Spanish slang idiom 'hacer el primo' in the negative imperative.

2

Me sentí como un primo cuando me di cuenta de que me habían engañado.

I felt like a fool when I realized they had tricked me.

Uses 'primo' as a noun meaning 'fool' in Spain.

3

La herencia se dividió equitativamente entre los hermanos y los primos carnales.

The inheritance was divided equally among the siblings and the first cousins.

Uses the formal term 'primos carnales' and passive reflexive.

4

Es fundamental que los primos mantengan los lazos familiares a pesar de la distancia.

It is fundamental that cousins maintain family ties despite the distance.

Uses subjunctive 'mantengan' after an impersonal expression.

5

Mi primo, habiendo terminado sus estudios, decidió mudarse al extranjero.

My cousin, having finished his studies, decided to move abroad.

Uses the perfect participle 'habiendo terminado' for a subordinate clause.

6

Por muy inteligente que sea mi primo, a veces carece de sentido común.

However smart my cousin may be, he sometimes lacks common sense.

Uses the concessive structure 'Por muy + adj + que + subjunctive'.

7

Se rumorea que mi primo segundo está involucrado en un escándalo político.

It is rumored that my second cousin is involved in a political scandal.

Uses impersonal 'se' and specific family vocabulary.

8

¡Qué casualidad encontrarte aquí, primo! Hace siglos que no nos vemos.

What a coincidence finding you here, buddy! We haven't seen each other in ages.

Uses 'primo' as a colloquial vocative.

1

La endogamia entre primos hermanos era una práctica común en la realeza europea.

Endogamy among first cousins was a common practice in European royalty.

Uses advanced academic vocabulary ('endogamia').

2

El timador buscaba a un primo que creyera su absurda historia sobre el billete de lotería.

The con artist was looking for a sucker who would believe his absurd story about the lottery ticket.

Uses 'primo' as 'sucker' with an imperfect subjunctive relative clause.

3

A nivel genealógico, determinar el grado de consanguinidad entre primos terceros requiere un análisis exhaustivo.

On a genealogical level, determining the degree of consanguinity between third cousins requires an exhaustive analysis.

Uses highly formal, domain-specific terminology.

4

El autor utiliza la figura del primo lejano como un recurso literario para introducir un elemento disruptivo en la trama.

The author uses the figure of the distant cousin as a literary device to introduce a disruptive element into the plot.

Analyzes literature using advanced syntax.

5

Pagar esa cantidad exorbitante por un café es, a todas luces, hacer el primo.

Paying that exorbitant amount for a coffee is, by all accounts, acting like a fool.

Uses the idiom 'hacer el primo' with the connector 'a todas luces'.

6

Mi primo se erigió como el portavoz de la familia durante el litigio testamentario.

My cousin established himself as the family spokesperson during the testamentary litigation.

Uses the advanced reflexive verb 'erigirse' and legal vocabulary.

7

La relación paternofilial a menudo eclipsa el vínculo colateral que existe entre primos.

The parent-child relationship often eclipses the collateral bond that exists between cousins.

Uses precise sociological terms ('paternofilial', 'vínculo colateral').

8

No me tomes por el pito del sereno ni me trates como a un primo; sé perfectamente lo que tramas.

Don't take me for a joke nor treat me like a fool; I know perfectly well what you're plotting.

Combines two advanced colloquial idioms.

1

El derecho sucesorio estipula claramente la prelación de los primos carnales en ausencia de herederos forzosos.

Succession law clearly stipulates the precedence of first cousins in the absence of forced heirs.

Employs highly specialized legal jargon ('derecho sucesorio', 'prelación').

2

La novela de García Márquez teje una intrincada red de pasiones incestuosas entre primos que desafían la moralidad de la época.

García Márquez's novel weaves an intricate web of incestuous passions between cousins that defy the morality of the era.

Literary analysis using complex descriptive adjectives.

3

Resulta palmario que el gobierno ha hecho el primo al firmar un tratado bilateral tan lesivo para la economía nacional.

It is patently obvious that the government has played the fool by signing a bilateral treaty so detrimental to the national economy.

Uses 'hacer el primo' in a formal political critique with 'palmario' and 'lesivo'.

4

El concepto de 'primo' en las culturas mesoamericanas trasciende la mera consanguinidad, abarcando alianzas tribales de índole espiritual.

The concept of 'cousin' in Mesoamerican cultures transcends mere consanguinity, encompassing tribal alliances of a spiritual nature.

Anthropological discourse using advanced verbs ('trasciende', 'abarcando').

5

A fuer de ser sincero, me sentí el mayor de los primos al secundar su descabellada propuesta empresarial.

To be perfectly honest, I felt like the biggest of fools for supporting his outlandish business proposal.

Uses the archaic/literary phrase 'A fuer de' and 'secundar'.

6

La consanguinidad entre primos paralelos frente a primos cruzados es un tema de debate recurrente en la antropología del parentesco.

Consanguinity between parallel cousins versus cross cousins is a recurring topic of debate in the anthropology of kinship.

Uses hyper-specific academic terminology ('primos paralelos', 'primos cruzados').

7

Ese individuo es un primo de tomo y lomo; se traga cualquier bulo que circula por las redes sociales.

That individual is an absolute fool; he swallows any hoax that circulates on social networks.

Combines 'primo' (fool) with the intensifying idiom 'de tomo y lomo'.

8

La etimología de 'primo' nos retrotrae al latín 'primus', evidenciando la primacía histórica de este vínculo en la estructura clánica.

The etymology of 'primo' takes us back to the Latin 'primus', evidencing the historical primacy of this bond in the clan structure.

Etymological analysis using verbs like 'retrotrae' and 'evidenciando'.

자주 쓰는 조합

primo hermano
primo segundo
primo lejano
primo carnal
hacer el primo
ser un primo
mi primo
primo hermano por parte de madre
primo hermano por parte de padre
visitar al primo

자주 쓰는 구문

primo hermano
primo segundo
hacer el primo
¡Qué onda, primo!
primo lejano
primos por parte de madre
primos por parte de padre
caer como un primo
engañar a un primo
ser primos carnales

자주 혼동되는 단어

Primo vs prime (English false friend)

Primo vs tío (uncle)

Primo vs sobrino (nephew)

관용어 및 표현

"hacer el primo"
"caer como un primo"
"ser más tonto que un primo"
"primo de zumosol (Spanish pop culture reference for a strong protector)"
"engañar como a un primo"
"quedar como un primo"
"tratar como a un primo"
"buscar a un primo"
"el primo del pueblo"
"primo hermano de (used metaphorically to say two things are very similar)"

혼동하기 쉬운

Primo vs

Primo vs

Primo vs

Primo vs

Primo vs

문장 패턴

무료 가입하고 모든 예문 보기

사용법

note

While 'primo' is a basic word, its colloquial variations make it a fascinating study in sociolinguistics. Always adapt your usage based on the country you are in or the nationality of the person you are speaking with.

자주 하는 실수
  • Using 'primo' for a female cousin instead of 'prima'.
  • Forgetting the personal 'a' (saying 'Veo mi primo' instead of 'Veo a mi primo').
  • Using 'primo' to mean 'prime' (like Amazon Prime).
  • Saying 'primos y primas' when 'primos' alone covers a mixed group.
  • Using the slang 'primo' (fool) in Latin America, where it doesn't have that meaning.

팁

Gender Agreement

Always remember to match the gender of the word to the person. Use 'primo' for a boy and 'prima' for a girl. Adjectives must also match: 'primo alto' vs 'prima alta'.

Plural Rule

When referring to a group of cousins that includes at least one male, always use the masculine plural 'primos'. Only use 'primas' for an exclusively female group.

Mexican Slang

If you are in Mexico and someone calls you 'primo', don't be confused! They are just calling you 'buddy' or 'bro'. It is a sign of friendliness.

Spanish Slang Warning

In Spain, avoid calling strangers 'primo'. It is slang for a 'sucker' or a fool, and could easily offend someone if used incorrectly.

First Cousins

To specifically say 'first cousin', use the phrase 'primo hermano'. This highlights the close, sibling-like bond that cousins often share in Hispanic cultures.

The Personal 'A'

Because a cousin is a person, remember to use the personal 'a' when they are the object of an action. Example: 'Visito a mi primo'.

Second and Third Cousins

To describe more distant relatives, just add the ordinal number. 'Primo segundo' is second cousin, 'primo tercero' is third cousin.

Not 'Prime'

Don't use 'primo' to translate the English word 'prime' (like prime time or Amazon Prime). Use 'principal' or 'excelente' instead.

Hacer el primo

Learn the Spanish idiom 'hacer el primo'. It means to let yourself be fooled or taken advantage of. It's very common in everyday Peninsular Spanish.

Roll the R slightly

The 'r' in 'primo' is a single flap, not a rolled double 'rr'. It sounds a bit like the 'tt' in the American English word 'butter'.

암기하기

기억법

Think of your cousin as your 'PRIME-o' relative outside your immediate family.

어원

Latin

문화적 맥락

Used as a derogatory slang term for someone who is easily fooled or a sucker.

Used as a friendly greeting among unrelated men, similar to 'bro'.

Cousins are often considered as close as siblings, and the extended family is a core social unit.

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

대화 시작하기

"¿Cuántos primos tienes?"

"¿Te llevas bien con tus primos?"

"¿Viven tus primos cerca de ti?"

"¿Tienes algún primo que viva en el extranjero?"

"¿Qué sueles hacer cuando te reúnes con tus primos?"

일기 주제

Describe a tu primo favorito y explica por qué te llevas tan bien con él.

Escribe sobre un recuerdo divertido de la infancia con tus primos.

Explica la diferencia cultural en el uso de la palabra 'primo' entre España y México.

Dibuja tu árbol genealógico y escribe oraciones describiendo quién es el primo de quién.

¿Crees que la relación entre primos es tan importante como la relación entre hermanos? ¿Por qué?

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

In Spanish, the noun 'primo' primarily means a male cousin. However, it can also be used as an adjective meaning 'first' or 'prime', such as in 'número primo' (prime number). The English word 'prime' (like Amazon Prime) is usually translated as 'principal' or 'excelente'. Context will always tell you which meaning is intended. In everyday conversation, it almost always means cousin.

To say female cousin, you simply change the final 'o' of 'primo' to an 'a', making it 'prima'. Spanish nouns that refer to people usually have masculine and feminine forms. You must also ensure that any articles or adjectives used with it are feminine, for example, 'la prima alta' (the tall female cousin).

In Spanish grammar, the masculine plural form is used to refer to a mixed-gender group. Therefore, 'los primos' can mean a group of only male cousins, or a group of both male and female cousins. If you have ten female cousins and one male cousin, you still refer to the group as 'los primos'.

It can be. In Peninsular Spanish slang, 'primo' is often used to describe someone who is gullible, naive, or a 'sucker'. If you call a stranger 'primo' in Madrid, they might think you are insulting their intelligence. It is best to only use it for actual family members when in Spain.

In many parts of Mexico, particularly the north, 'primo' is used as a colloquial term of endearment among close male friends. It functions similarly to 'bro', 'dude', or 'mate' in English. It reflects the cultural value placed on family, extending familial warmth to close social circles.

A 'primo hermano' translates literally to 'cousin brother', but it means 'first cousin' in English. It refers to the child of your aunt or uncle. The term emphasizes the close bond between first cousins, which in Hispanic cultures is often as strong as the bond between siblings.

Yes, if your cousin is the direct object of the verb, you must use the personal 'a'. Because a cousin is a specific person, Spanish grammar requires this preposition. For example, you must say 'Veo a mi primo' (I see my cousin), not 'Veo mi primo'.

Yes. While 'prima' most commonly means female cousin, in financial or insurance contexts, it means a 'premium' or a 'bonus'. For example, 'la prima de seguro' means 'the insurance premium'. Again, the context of the sentence will make the meaning clear.

Second cousin is translated as 'primo segundo' for a male, or 'prima segunda' for a female. A third cousin would be 'primo tercero'. This numerical system is used to describe the exact genealogical distance between relatives in the extended family.

'Hacer el primo' is an idiom primarily used in Spain. It means to act like a fool, to be easily deceived, or to do something that allows others to take advantage of you. For example, if you pay triple the price for a souvenir, a Spanish friend might tell you, 'Has hecho el primo'.

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셀프 테스트 180 질문

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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