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A2 adjective #8,000 most common 11 min read

sordo

Top 8,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips sordo in 30 Seconds

Explanation sordo in your Level:

At the A1 level, you only need to know that 'sordo' means 'deaf'. It is a basic adjective used to describe people who cannot hear. You should learn it alongside other physical descriptions like 'alto' (tall) or 'bajo' (short). At this stage, focus on the simple sentence structure: 'Subject + Verb (ser/estar) + sordo'. For example, 'Mi abuelo es sordo'. You should also remember that the word changes to 'sorda' for women and 'sordos/sordas' for groups. Do not worry about the metaphorical meanings yet; just focus on the physical description. It is a useful word for talking about family members or health in a very basic way. You might also hear it in the classroom when the teacher is explaining sounds, but its primary use for you will be describing people. Practice saying the word clearly, as the 'r' followed by 'd' can be a bit tricky for English speakers. Remember that 'sordo' is an adjective, so it always describes a noun. You cannot say 'I have sordo', you must say 'I am sordo' or 'He is sordo'. This is a common mistake for beginners who translate directly from their native language. Keep it simple and focus on the literal meaning.

At the A2 level, you begin to expand your use of 'sordo' to include more common phrases and slightly more complex grammar. You should understand the difference between 'ser sordo' (to be deaf as a permanent trait) and 'estar sordo' (to be deaf as a temporary state or a result of getting older). You will also learn common idioms like 'sordo como una tapia', which is a very common way to say 'deaf as a post'. At this level, you might also encounter 'sordo' in the context of following instructions, such as 'hacer oídos sordos', which means to ignore someone. You should be able to use the word in the past tense, such as 'Él se quedó sordo' (He became deaf). This level also introduces the idea of agreement in more complex sentences, like 'Las niñas sordas juegan en el parque'. You are also expected to recognize the word in public signs or basic health contexts. For example, if you see a sign that says 'Subtítulos para sordos', you should know it means 'Subtitles for the deaf'. You are moving beyond just a single word and starting to see how it fits into the culture and daily life of Spanish speakers. Practice using it in sentences that describe changes in state, as this is a key part of the A2 curriculum.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'sordo' in a variety of contexts, including its metaphorical and descriptive uses for sounds. You will learn to use 'ruido sordo' to describe a muffled or dull sound, which is very common in storytelling and descriptive writing. Your understanding of the 'ser' vs 'estar' distinction should be solid, and you should be able to explain the nuance between 'es sordo' (identity) and 'está sordo' (condition). You will also encounter the word in more formal settings, such as news reports or articles about the 'Comunidad Sorda' (Deaf Community). At this stage, you should also be aware of the term 'sordomudo', though you should also learn why it might be better to simply use 'sordo' or 'persona con discapacidad auditiva' in many situations. You will start to see 'sordo' used in more abstract ways, such as 'un dolor sordo' (a dull pain). This level requires you to integrate the word into your more advanced grammar, such as using it in subjunctive clauses: 'Espero que no se haga el sordo' (I hope he does not pretend to be deaf). You should also be able to use the word to talk about social issues, such as accessibility and inclusion. Your vocabulary is becoming more nuanced, and 'sordo' is a great example of a word that has many layers of meaning.

At the B2 level, you are expected to use 'sordo' with the precision of an upper-intermediate speaker. This means using it in literary contexts and understanding its phonetic applications. You should know that 'sordo' refers to voiceless consonants in linguistics. You will also encounter the word in more sophisticated idiomatic expressions and be able to use them naturally in conversation. For example, you might describe a political situation where the leaders are 'sordos ante las demandas del pueblo' (deaf to the people's demands). Your ability to use 'sordo' to describe sounds should be very refined, distinguishing between 'un golpe sordo', 'un murmullo sordo', and 'un eco sordo'. You should also be familiar with famous cultural references, such as Goya's 'Quinta del Sordo', and be able to discuss how his deafness influenced his art. At this level, you should also be able to debate topics related to the Deaf community, such as the use of cochlear implants or the importance of sign language education, using the word 'sordo' correctly and respectfully throughout. Your understanding of the word is now deeply tied to its cultural and historical roots in the Spanish-speaking world. You can move effortlessly between the literal, the metaphorical, and the technical meanings of the word.

At the C1 level, your use of 'sordo' should be near-native. You will explore the word's use in high-level literature and poetry, where it often takes on very abstract meanings. You should be able to analyze how an author uses 'sordo' to create a specific mood or to symbolize isolation, silence, or repressed emotion. For example, 'una sorda rabia' (a silent/repressed rage). You will also understand the historical evolution of the word from its Latin roots and how its usage has changed over time in different Spanish-speaking regions. Your ability to use the word in formal writing, such as academic essays or professional reports, should be flawless, including its use as a noun in phrases like 'la integración de los sordos'. You should also be aware of very specific regionalisms or rare idioms involving the word. At this level, you are not just using the word; you are mastering its nuances to express complex ideas with subtlety. You can distinguish between 'sordo' and its synonyms like 'hipoacúsico' or 'infrasonoro' in a technical discussion about acoustics. Your command of the word allows you to use it in wordplay, irony, and sophisticated metaphors. You understand the political and social sensitivities surrounding the term and can navigate them with ease in any professional or social setting.

At the C2 level, you have a complete and total mastery of 'sordo' in every possible context. You can use it in highly specialized fields, such as linguistics, medicine, or music theory, with absolute accuracy. You are familiar with the most obscure literary references and can use the word to evoke deep emotional or philosophical concepts. For example, you might discuss the 'sorda lucha' (silent struggle) of a character in a complex novel. You understand the finest nuances of the word's pronunciation and its role in the rhythm of Spanish poetry. You can engage in high-level academic discourse about the history of the Deaf community in Spain or Latin America, citing specific laws or cultural movements. Your use of 'sordo' in metaphors is creative and perfectly timed, reflecting a deep immersion in the Spanish language and culture. You can also recognize and use archaic forms or rare dialectal variations of the word if necessary. Essentially, 'sordo' is no longer just a vocabulary item for you; it is a versatile instrument that you can play with total control to communicate anything from a simple physical fact to a profound existential truth. You are capable of translating complex texts involving the word, ensuring that every shade of meaning is preserved. Your understanding is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

sordo in 30 Seconds

'Sordo' is the primary Spanish word for 'deaf', used to describe people with hearing loss.
It can also describe 'muffled' or 'dull' sounds, such as a low thud.
Common idioms include 'hacer oídos sordos' (to ignore) and 'sordo como una tapia' (very deaf).
The word must agree in gender (sordo/sorda) and number (sordos/sordas) with the noun it modifies.

The Spanish word sordo is a fundamental adjective that primarily translates to 'deaf' in English. At its most basic level, it describes a person who has lost the sense of hearing or who was born without it. However, the linguistic depth of sordo extends far beyond a simple medical condition. In Spanish, this word carries significant cultural, metaphorical, and phonetic weight. When you are learning Spanish at an A2 level, understanding the literal meaning is the first step, but recognizing how it shifts in different contexts will truly enrich your vocabulary.

Literal Application: The most common use is to describe an individual's physical state. For example, 'Mi abuelo está sordo' means 'My grandfather is deaf.' It is important to note that in Spanish, we often use the verb 'estar' to describe the state of being deaf, especially if it is related to age or an accident, though 'ser' is used when defining someone's identity within the Deaf community.

El músico se quedó sordo a una edad muy temprana, pero continuó componiendo obras maestras.

Beyond the physical, sordo describes sounds that are muffled, dull, or lacking resonance. If you hear a low thud behind a wall, you might describe it as a 'ruido sordo'. This usage is common in literature to create a somber or mysterious atmosphere. Furthermore, the word appears in many idiomatic expressions. To 'hacer oídos sordos' is to intentionally ignore someone, much like the English phrase 'to turn a deaf ear.' This metaphorical use is prevalent in daily conversation and media.

Cultural Identity: In Spain and Latin America, the 'Comunidad Sorda' (Deaf Community) is a vibrant group with its own sign languages, such as Lengua de Signos Española (LSE). Using the word 'sordo' with respect is vital, as it is the preferred term over more clinical or outdated phrases.

Es un golpe sordo que se siente en el pecho pero no se escucha claramente.

In linguistics, 'sordo' also refers to 'voiceless' consonants (like 'p', 't', 'k'), which are produced without vibrating the vocal cords. This technical usage is essential for students of phonetics. Finally, the historical context of the word is notable; the famous painter Francisco de Goya lived in a house called 'La Quinta del Sordo' (The Villa of the Deaf Man) after he lost his hearing, which influenced his later, darker works. This demonstrates how the word is woven into the history of Spanish art and culture. Understanding 'sordo' requires looking at it as more than just a lack of hearing; it is a descriptor of sound quality, a mark of identity, and a tool for metaphorical expression.

Using sordo correctly in a sentence involves understanding its role as an adjective and how it interacts with different verbs. The most common pitfall for English speakers is choosing between 'ser' and 'estar'.

Ser vs. Estar: Use 'ser' when deafness is a defining characteristic or a permanent identity. For example, 'Él es sordo de nacimiento' (He is deaf from birth). Use 'estar' when referring to a temporary state or a condition that has developed over time, such as 'Mi abuela está un poco sorda últimamente' (My grandmother is a bit deaf lately).

No grites, que no estoy sordo, te escucho perfectamente.

When describing objects or sounds, 'sordo' usually follows the noun it modifies. In the phrase 'un ruido sordo', the adjective provides a specific quality to the noise. This is a common pattern in descriptive writing.

Agreement Rules: Like all Spanish adjectives ending in '-o', 'sordo' changes to 'sorda' for feminine nouns and adds an '-s' for plural forms. 'Las campanas emitieron un sonido sordo' (The bells emitted a dull sound) versus 'Las niñas sordas asisten a una escuela especial' (The deaf girls attend a special school).

Ella se hizo la sorda para no tener que responder a la pregunta incómoda.

Metaphorical usage often involves the phrase 'hacerse el sordo' (to pretend to be deaf/to ignore). Here, the adjective is part of a verbal construction that describes an action. In more advanced contexts, you might see 'sordo' used as a noun, meaning 'a deaf person'. For instance, 'El sordo leyó los labios del actor' (The deaf man read the actor's lips). This is common in news reporting or storytelling.

Comparative and Superlative: You can use 'más sordo que' (deafer than) for comparisons. A very common idiom is 'sordo como una tapia' (deaf as a wall/post), which emphasizes total deafness.

Juan es más sordo que una tapia; tienes que escribirle lo que quieres decir.

When writing, ensure that the placement of 'sordo' reflects the emphasis you want. 'Un sordo grito' (a muffled cry) sounds more poetic than 'un grito sordo', which is more standard. This flexibility allows for expressive range in Spanish prose. In summary, mastering 'sordo' involves navigating gender agreement, choosing the right auxiliary verb, and recognizing when to transition from literal to figurative meanings. Whether you are describing a physical ailment, a specific acoustic quality, or a social interaction, 'sordo' is a versatile tool in your Spanish linguistic toolkit.

You will encounter the word sordo in a wide variety of real-world environments, ranging from clinical settings to everyday social interactions. In a medical context, such as a doctor's office or a hospital, 'sordo' is used to discuss hearing loss. Doctors might ask, '¿Desde cuándo se siente sordo de este oído?' (Since when have you felt deaf in this ear?). Understanding this is crucial for basic health interactions in a Spanish-speaking country.

Daily Conversations: In families with elderly members, 'sordo' is a frequent topic. You might hear someone say, 'Habla más fuerte, que el abuelo está sordo' (Speak louder, as grandpa is deaf). It is also used jokingly among friends when someone fails to hear a comment: '¿Estás sordo o qué?' (Are you deaf or what?).

En el mercado, el vendedor gritaba tanto que parecía que todos éramos sordos.

In the world of entertainment and media, 'sordo' appears in news stories about accessibility and the Deaf community. Spanish television often includes a small window with a sign language interpreter, and discussions about 'subtítulos para sordos' (subtitles for the deaf) are common in settings and on streaming platforms like Netflix or RTVE. Literature and film also utilize the word's evocative power. A famous Spanish film titled 'Sordo' (The Silent War) tells the story of a guerrilla fighter who becomes deaf during an explosion. This highlights how the word is used to explore themes of isolation and survival. In literature, authors use 'ruido sordo' to describe the sound of a falling body, a distant explosion, or the rumbling of the earth, creating a sensory experience for the reader.

Public Spaces: In public transportation or museums, you might see signs indicating 'atención para personas sordas' (assistance for deaf people). This is part of the broader effort for inclusion in Spanish-speaking societies.

El museo ofrece visitas guiadas en lengua de signos para el público sordo.

In educational settings, teachers might discuss 'consonantes sordas' when teaching pronunciation, helping students distinguish between 's' (sorda) and 'z' (which is also sorda in most of Spain, but voiced in other languages). Finally, in the legal or political sphere, phrases like 'oídos sordos a las peticiones' (deaf ears to requests) are used in newspapers to criticize government inaction. This wide range of applications—from the deeply personal to the highly technical—makes 'sordo' an indispensable word for any serious learner of Spanish. By paying attention to these contexts, you will gain a more nuanced understanding of how the word functions in the tapestry of the Spanish language.

When learning to use sordo, English speakers often encounter several linguistic hurdles. The most frequent error is related to the verb choice between 'ser' and 'estar'. In English, we simply say 'he is deaf'. In Spanish, saying 'él es sordo' implies a permanent trait or identity, whereas 'él está sordo' might imply a temporary condition or a change from a previous state. Misusing these can lead to subtle misunderstandings about the nature of the person's condition.

Confusion with Similar Words: Beginners often confuse 'sordo' with 'sueño' (sleep/dream) or 'suerte' (luck) due to their similar initial sounds. It is common to hear a student say 'Tengo sordo' when they mean 'Tengo sueño' (I am sleepy). Remember that 'sordo' is an adjective, not a noun you 'have'.

Incorrect: Ella está sordo. Correct: Ella está sorda.

Gender and number agreement is another area where mistakes happen. Since 'sordo' ends in '-o', it must be modified to 'sorda', 'sordos', or 'sordas' to match the noun it describes. Forgetting this is a hallmark of an A1/A2 learner. For example, 'Las mujeres sordos' is incorrect; it must be 'Las mujeres sordas'. Another mistake involves the metaphorical use. English speakers might translate 'to turn a deaf ear' literally as 'girar una oreja sorda', which is nonsensical in Spanish. The correct idiom is 'hacer oídos sordos' (to make deaf ears). Using the wrong body part (oreja vs. oído) or the wrong verb (girar vs. hacer) will make the phrase unrecognizable to a native speaker.

Preposition Pitfalls: When specifying deafness in one ear, the correct preposition is 'de'. 'Soy sordo del oído derecho' (I am deaf in my right ear). Using 'en' is a common anglicism that sounds unnatural.

Él no es sordo, simplemente no quiere escuchar la verdad.

Lastly, learners sometimes use 'sordo' when they mean 'mudo' (mute). While 'sordomudo' (deaf-mute) is a word, it is often considered outdated or insensitive in certain contexts. It is better to use the specific term that applies. Furthermore, avoid using 'sordo' as a general insult for someone who is not paying attention; while common in slang, it can be offensive. Instead, use 'distraído' (distracted) or 'despistado' (clueless). By being mindful of these common errors, you can use 'sordo' more accurately and respectfully in your Spanish journey.

While sordo is the most direct word for 'deaf', Spanish offers several synonyms and related terms that provide more precision or formality depending on the context. Understanding these alternatives will help you sound more sophisticated and adapt to different social situations.

Hipoacúsico: This is a more technical and formal term used in medical and academic contexts. It refers to someone with partial hearing loss (hypoacusis). If you are in a clinical setting, you are more likely to hear this than 'sordo'.

El paciente fue diagnosticado como hipoacúsico tras las pruebas de audición.

Another related term is 'discapacidad auditiva' (hearing impairment). This is a broad, respectful way to refer to the condition in official documents or professional discussions. It shifts the focus from the person being 'deaf' to the person 'having a disability', which is often preferred in contemporary Spanish-speaking society. For describing sounds, synonyms include 'amortiguado' (muffled), 'apagado' (dull/muted), or 'mate' (flat). For instance, 'un sonido amortiguado' suggests something has been softened by a physical barrier, whereas 'un ruido sordo' focuses on the low frequency and lack of clarity.

Sordomudo: This term combines 'sordo' and 'mudo' (mute). While historically common, it is increasingly avoided because many deaf people can and do speak, and the term can be seen as reductive. It is best to use it only if specifically relevant.

El sonido apagado del tambor indicaba que la ceremonia estaba terminando.

In the metaphorical sense of ignoring someone, you might use 'indiferente' (indifferent) or 'insensible' (unfeeling). If someone is 'sordo a los consejos' (deaf to advice), they are 'terco' (stubborn) or 'obstinado' (obstinate). These words provide more detail about the person's character rather than just their lack of response. Finally, 'oyente' (hearer/hearing person) is the direct antonym, often used within the Deaf community to distinguish themselves from those who can hear. Understanding these nuances allows you to choose the exact word that fits your communicative needs, whether you are describing a physical state, a sound quality, or a person's attitude.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The painter Francisco de Goya's house was named 'La Quinta del Sordo', but it was actually named after the previous owner who was also deaf, even before Goya lost his hearing!

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈsɔː.dəʊ/

US /ˈsɔr.do/

The stress is on the first syllable: SOR-do.

Rhymes With

gordo tordo bordo transbordo trasbordo tordo recordo mordo

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'r' like an English 'r' (too soft and retroflex).
Making the final 'o' sound like 'oh' (diphthongized).
Confusing the word with 'suerte' or 'sueño' due to the initial 's' sound.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The word is short and easy to recognize in text, appearing frequently in basic and intermediate literature.

Writing 2/5

Simple to spell, but requires attention to gender and number agreement.

Speaking 3/5

The 'r' and 'd' combination requires some practice for English speakers to sound natural.

Listening 3/5

Can be confused with 'sueño' or 'suerte' in fast, native speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

oído escuchar hablar persona viejo

Learn Next

mudo ciego discapacidad lengua de signos audífono

Advanced

hipoacusia ensordecedor amortiguado infrasonoro presbiacusia

Grammar to Know

Adjective Agreement

La mujer sorda (feminine singular), los hombres sordos (masculine plural).

Ser vs Estar

Él es sordo (identity) vs Él está sordo (state/condition).

Substantivization of Adjectives

El sordo (The deaf man) - using an adjective as a noun.

Preposition 'de' for body parts

Sordo del oído derecho (Deaf in the right ear).

Idiomatic 'Hacerse'

Se hace el sordo (He pretends to be deaf).

Examples by Level

Mi abuelo es sordo.

My grandfather is deaf.

Subject + verb 'ser' + adjective.

¿Eres sorda?

Are you (feminine) deaf?

Question form with feminine adjective agreement.

Él no escucha porque es sordo.

He does not listen because he is deaf.

Use of 'porque' to explain a state.

La niña es sorda.

The girl is deaf.

Feminine singular agreement.

Ellos son sordos.

They are deaf.

Masculine plural agreement.

Yo no soy sordo.

I am not deaf.

Negative sentence with 'no'.

Mi perro está un poco sordo.

My dog is a bit deaf.

Use of 'estar' for a state due to age.

¿Tu hermano es sordo?

Is your brother deaf?

Possessive adjective 'tu' + noun + verb + adjective.

Él es sordo como una tapia.

He is as deaf as a post.

Common idiom for total deafness.

Mi abuela se quedó sorda el año pasado.

My grandmother became deaf last year.

Use of 'quedarse' to indicate a change in state.

No me hagas oídos sordos.

Do not turn a deaf ear to me.

Imperative idiom for ignoring someone.

¿Hay subtítulos para sordos?

Are there subtitles for the deaf?

Use of 'para' to indicate purpose/audience.

Ella nació sorda pero habla muy bien.

She was born deaf but speaks very well.

Contrast using 'pero'.

Los sordos usan la lengua de signos.

Deaf people use sign language.

'Sordo' used as a noun with a definite article.

Tengo un vecino que es sordo.

I have a neighbor who is deaf.

Relative clause with 'que'.

¿Puedes hablar más alto? Estoy un poco sordo.

Can you speak louder? I am a bit deaf.

Request followed by a reason.

Se escuchó un ruido sordo en el sótano.

A dull thud was heard in the basement.

'Sordo' describing a sound quality.

A pesar de ser sorda, ella es una gran bailarina.

Despite being deaf, she is a great dancer.

Use of 'a pesar de' to show concession.

El gobierno hizo oídos sordos a las protestas.

The government turned a deaf ear to the protests.

Metaphorical use in a political context.

Sentí un dolor sordo en la espalda todo el día.

I felt a dull pain in my back all day.

'Sordo' used to describe a type of physical sensation.

Es importante que la sociedad no sea sorda a estos problemas.

It is important that society is not deaf to these problems.

Subjunctive mood after 'es importante que'.

La explosión lo dejó sordo temporalmente.

The explosion left him temporarily deaf.

Verb 'dejar' used to describe a resulting state.

Ella prefiere que la llamen sorda y no hipoacúsica.

She prefers to be called deaf and not hearing-impaired.

Preference expressed with the subjunctive.

El director es sordo, por lo que necesitamos un intérprete.

The director is deaf, so we need an interpreter.

Cause and effect with 'por lo que'.

La 'p' es una consonante sorda.

The 'p' is a voiceless consonant.

Technical linguistic term.

Goya pintó sus 'Pinturas Negras' en la Quinta del Sordo.

Goya painted his 'Black Paintings' in the Villa of the Deaf Man.

Historical and cultural reference.

Sus súplicas cayeron en oídos sordos.

His pleas fell on deaf ears.

Sophisticated idiom for being ignored.

Había una sorda rivalidad entre los dos hermanos.

There was a silent rivalry between the two brothers.

'Sordo' describing an abstract feeling or tension.

El golpe sordo contra el suelo despertó a todos.

The dull thud against the floor woke everyone up.

Adjective placement for descriptive emphasis.

No podemos permanecer sordos ante la injusticia.

We cannot remain deaf to injustice.

Modal verb 'poder' + 'permanecer' + adjective.

La película narra la historia de un guerrillero sordo.

The movie tells the story of a deaf guerrilla fighter.

Narrative description.

Es un sordo resentimiento que ha crecido durante años.

It is a quiet resentment that has grown for years.

Abstract metaphorical use.

La sorda persistencia de la lluvia terminó por inundar el valle.

The quiet persistence of the rain eventually flooded the valley.

Literary use of 'sorda' to describe an action.

El autor utiliza el silencio sordo para enfatizar la soledad del protagonista.

The author uses the dull silence to emphasize the protagonist's loneliness.

Analysis of literary techniques.

Se percibía una sorda agitación en las calles antes de la revolución.

A quiet agitation was perceived in the streets before the revolution.

Abstract noun modification.

Su voz tenía un tono sordo, carente de toda emoción.

His voice had a flat tone, lacking all emotion.

Describing vocal quality.

La integración laboral de los sordos es un reto pendiente.

The labor integration of deaf people is an outstanding challenge.

'Sordo' as a collective noun.

El sordo latido de su corazón era lo único que podía oír.

The dull beat of his heart was the only thing he could hear.

Poetic imagery.

A menudo, el poder es sordo a la razón.

Often, power is deaf to reason.

Philosophical personification.

La sorda envidia que sentía lo consumía por dentro.

The silent envy he felt consumed him from within.

Metaphorical description of emotion.

La obra de Goya en su etapa final es un testimonio de su sorda angustia.

Goya's work in his final stage is a testimony to his silent anguish.

Sophisticated cultural analysis.

El sordo fragor de la batalla se escuchaba desde la colina.

The muffled din of the battle was heard from the hill.

Archaic or elevated vocabulary ('fragor').

Existe una sorda connivencia entre las élites financieras.

There is a silent collusion among the financial elites.

Formal political/economic discourse.

El poema evoca una sorda melancolía a través de sus versos.

The poem evokes a quiet melancholy through its verses.

Literary criticism.

La sorda resistencia de los materiales fue puesta a prueba.

The internal resistance of the materials was put to the test.

Technical/Scientific metaphor.

Se produjo un sordo crujido antes de que la estructura colapsara.

A dull creak occurred before the structure collapsed.

Precise sensory description.

La sorda desesperación de los marginados rara vez llega a los periódicos.

The silent despair of the marginalized rarely reaches the newspapers.

Social commentary.

Su sorda elocuencia convenció a todos sin necesidad de gritar.

His quiet eloquence convinced everyone without the need to shout.

Oxymoron for rhetorical effect.

Common Collocations

ruido sordo

golpe sordo

dolor sordo

comunidad sorda

consonante sorda

quedarse sordo

nacer sordo

oído sordo

subtítulos para sordos

eco sordo

Common Phrases

¿Estás sordo?

— A common, sometimes rude question asked when someone doesn't hear you.

¿Estás sordo? Te he llamado tres veces.

No estoy sordo.

— A defensive reply used when someone is shouting unnecessarily.

No estoy sordo, no hace falta que grites.

Sordo de un oído.

— Specifying that someone is deaf in only one ear.

Es sordo del oído izquierdo.

Un poco sordo.

— Used to describe mild hearing loss, often due to age.

Mi padre está un poco sordo.

Persona sorda.

— The respectful way to refer to someone who is deaf.

Es una persona sorda muy inteligente.

Escuela para sordos.

— A specialized educational institution for deaf students.

Trabaja como profesor en una escuela para sordos.

Intérprete para sordos.

— A professional who translates spoken language into sign language.

Llamaron a un intérprete para sordos para el juicio.

Lengua de sordos.

— An informal (and sometimes less accurate) way to say sign language.

Ella sabe la lengua de los sordos.

Mundo de los sordos.

— Refers to the unique experiences and culture of deaf people.

Es fascinante conocer el mundo de los sordos.

Ayuda para sordos.

— Refers to devices or services meant to assist deaf people.

Esta aplicación es una gran ayuda para sordos.

Often Confused With

sordo vs sueño

'Sueño' means sleep or dream; 'sordo' means deaf. They both start with 's'.

sordo vs suerte

'Suerte' means luck; 'sordo' means deaf. Often confused by beginners in listening.

sordo vs gordo

'Gordo' means fat. Only the first letter is different, so listen carefully.

Idioms & Expressions

"sordo como una tapia"

— Extremely deaf; completely unable to hear anything.

Mi tío está sordo como una tapia.

informal

"hacer oídos sordos"

— To deliberately ignore what someone is saying or asking.

Hizo oídos sordos a mis advertencias.

neutral

"caer en oídos sordos"

— When advice or requests are completely ignored by the recipient.

Mis consejos cayeron en oídos sordos.

neutral

"a sordas"

— To do something secretly or quietly without making noise.

Planearon la sorpresa a sordas.

literary

"predicar en desierto sordo"

— To give advice to someone who will never listen.

Intentar convencerlo es predicar en desierto sordo.

literary

"ser sordo, ciego y mudo"

— To pretend not to see, hear, or know anything about a situation.

En ese negocio, es mejor ser sordo, ciego y mudo.

informal

"no hay peor sordo que el que no quiere oír"

— There is no one as deaf as the person who refuses to listen.

Le expliqué el riesgo, pero no hay peor sordo que el que no quiere oír.

proverb

"ruido sordo"

— A low-frequency, muffled sound that doesn't resonate.

Sentimos un ruido sordo bajo nuestros pies.

neutral

"dar la sorda"

— To ignore someone or give them the 'silent treatment'.

Le pedí perdón, pero me dio la sorda.

colloquial

"ir a la sorda"

— To proceed with a plan quietly and without attracting attention.

Ellos van a la sorda con sus negociaciones.

colloquial

Easily Confused

sordo vs mudo

Both describe physical disabilities related to communication.

'Sordo' is about hearing; 'mudo' is about speaking.

Él es sordo, pero no es mudo; puede hablar perfectamente.

sordo vs ciego

Both are common adjectives for sensory loss.

'Sordo' is hearing; 'ciego' is vision.

El hombre es ciego y sordo, pero muy valiente.

sordo vs hipoacúsico

They are synonyms for hearing loss.

'Hipoacúsico' is technical/partial; 'sordo' is general/total.

El niño es hipoacúsico y usa un pequeño audífono.

sordo vs amortiguado

Both describe sound quality.

'Sordo' is a dull/low sound; 'amortiguado' is a sound softened by a barrier.

El ruido sordo venía de la calle, pero estaba amortiguado por las ventanas.

sordo vs apagado

Both can mean a lack of resonance.

'Apagado' is more general (light, color, sound); 'sordo' is specific to sound/hearing.

La luz está apagada y el sonido del piano es sordo.

Sentence Patterns

[Subject] + ser/estar + sordo/a.

Mi tía es sorda.

[Subject] + se quedó + sordo/a.

Él se quedó sordo.

Sordo como una tapia.

Juan está sordo como una tapia.

Un/una [Noun] + sordo/a.

Un ruido sordo.

Hacer oídos sordos a [Noun].

Hizo oídos sordos a mi petición.

Permanecer sordo ante [Noun].

Permaneció sordo ante el peligro.

Una sorda [Abstract Noun].

Una sorda envidia.

[Noun] + de sorda [Noun].

Un grito de sorda desesperación.

Word Family

Nouns

sordera (deafness)

sordez (deafness/obsolete)

sordomudez (deaf-muteness)

Verbs

ensordecer (to deafen/to go deaf)

ensordecerse (to become deaf)

Adjectives

sordo (deaf)

sordomudo (deaf-mute)

ensordecedor (deafening)

oído (hearing/ear)

audición (hearing)

silencio (silence)

acústica (acoustics)

signo (sign)

How to Use It

frequency

Highly frequent in both spoken and written Spanish.

Common Mistakes

Yo tengo sordo. → Yo soy sordo. / Yo estoy sordo.
In Spanish, you do not 'have' deafness with the word 'sordo'; you 'are' deaf. Use 'ser' or 'estar'.
Él es sordo del oído. → Él es sordo de un oído.
When specifying an ear, you need to say 'de un oído' or 'del oído derecho/izquierdo'.
Girar una oreja sorda. → Hacer oídos sordos.
This is a literal translation from English that does not exist in Spanish. Use the correct idiom.
Las niñas son sordos. → Las niñas son sordas.
Adjectives must agree in gender with the noun they modify. 'Niñas' is feminine plural.
Un ruido sorda. → Un ruido sordo.
'Ruido' is a masculine noun, so the adjective must also be masculine.

Tips

Watch Your Agreement

Always match 'sordo' to the gender and number of the person. 'Ellas son sordas' is a common point where learners forget the 'as' ending.

Learn the Idioms

'Hacer oídos sordos' is used constantly in Spanish. Mastering this will make you sound much more like a native speaker at the B1/B2 level.

Respect the Community

Understand that 'Sordo' is often a point of pride and identity. Be respectful and use 'persona sorda' in formal situations.

Soft 'D'

Practice the 'd' in 'sordo' by placing your tongue between your teeth, similar to the 'th' in 'then'. This is key for a native accent.

Descriptive Power

Use 'ruido sordo' in your creative writing to describe mysteries or heavy objects falling. It adds great sensory detail.

Ser vs Estar

Think of 'ser sordo' as 'I am a deaf person' and 'estar sordo' as 'I cannot hear right now'.

Latin Connection

Remembering 'surdus' from Latin can help you connect 'sordo' to English words like 'absurd' (literally: out of tune/deaf).

Sign Language

Note that 'LSE' is for Spain and 'LSM' is for Mexico; the word 'sordo' links them all.

DELE Tip

In DELE exams, 'sordo' often appears in listening tasks describing elderly relatives. Be ready for it!

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'Sword' (Sordo) that makes a 'dull' sound when it hits a shield, and if you are hit by it, you might go 'deaf'.

Visual Association

Imagine a person with a large 'O' over their ear, representing the 'o' in sordo and the silence of a zero-sound environment.

Word Web

oído silencio ruido tapia signos subtítulos Goya ensordecedor

Challenge

Try to use 'sordo como una tapia' in a sentence about a fictional character today.

Word Origin

From the Latin 'surdus', which meant deaf, silent, or dull.

Original meaning: Unable to hear or producing no sound.

Romance (derived from Latin).

Cultural Context

Always use 'persona sorda' or 'sordo' with respect; avoid using it as a derogatory term for someone who isn't paying attention.

In English, 'hearing-impaired' was common but 'deaf' is now often preferred by the community; Spanish 'sordo' has remained the standard, respectful term.

Francisco de Goya (Spanish painter) 'Sordo' (2019 Spanish film) 'El mudo' (often paired in literature)

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Medical

¿Es sordo de nacimiento?
Tengo una sordera parcial.
Necesito un audífono.
Prueba de audición.

Daily Life

¿Estás sordo?
Habla más alto.
No te oigo.
Hacerse el sordo.

Media

Subtítulos para sordos.
Lengua de signos.
Intérprete.
Accesibilidad auditiva.

Descriptive Writing

Un ruido sordo.
Un golpe sordo.
Un dolor sordo.
Silencio sordo.

Education

Escuela para sordos.
Educación especial.
Consonante sorda.
Aprendizaje visual.

Conversation Starters

"¿Conoces a alguien que sea sordo?"

"¿Crees que es difícil aprender la lengua de signos?"

"¿Has visto alguna película con personajes sordos?"

"¿Sabías que el pintor Goya era sordo?"

"¿Qué harías si te quedaras sordo por un día?"

Journal Prompts

Describe cómo sería un día en completo silencio.

Escribe sobre una vez que hiciste oídos sordos a un consejo.

¿Cómo crees que la tecnología ayuda a las personas sordas hoy en día?

Investiga sobre la Quinta del Sordo y describe tus impresiones.

Imagina que tienes que comunicarte sin hablar, ¿qué gestos usarías?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, 'sordo' is the standard and respectful term for a deaf person. However, like any word, it can be offensive if used as an insult. Using 'persona sorda' is always a safe and polite choice.

Use 'ser' for identity or permanent conditions (e.g., 'Él es sordo de nacimiento'). Use 'estar' for states resulting from age, accidents, or temporary conditions (e.g., 'Está sordo por el ruido').

It is a very common idiom meaning 'completely deaf' or 'deaf as a post'. A 'tapia' is a mud or stone wall, which obviously cannot hear anything.

No, 'sordo' is only used for hearing or sound. For colors that are not bright, you would use 'apagado' or 'mate'.

It is still used, but it is becoming less common because many deaf people can speak. It is better to use 'sordo' unless you specifically mean someone who cannot hear or speak.

You say 'Me estoy quedando sordo' or 'Me estoy volviendo sordo'. 'Quedarse' is the most common verb for this change of state.

No, it means the opposite. It is a dull, low, or muffled noise, like a thud or a distant rumble.

The feminine form is 'sorda'. For example: 'Mi hermana es sorda'.

It is called 'lengua de signos' (common in Spain) or 'lengua de señas' (common in Latin America).

It was the name of the house where Francisco de Goya lived. It is famous because he painted his 'Black Paintings' on its walls after he became deaf.