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B1 noun #1,500 mais comum 16 min de leitura

adulto/a

Adult; a person who is fully grown or developed.

Top 1,500

When you are just starting to learn Spanish at the A1 beginner level, one of the most important categories of vocabulary you will encounter relates to people, their ages, and their stages of life. The word for adult in Spanish is 'adulto' if you are referring to a male, and 'adulta' if you are referring to a female. This distinction is a fundamental part of Spanish grammar known as gender agreement. Every noun in Spanish has a gender, and when a noun refers to a person, the ending of the word usually changes to match the biological gender of that person. Therefore, a man is 'un adulto' and a woman is 'una adulta'. Furthermore, when you want to talk about more than one adult, you must make the word plural. If you are talking about a group of men, or a mixed group of men and women, you use the masculine plural form, which is 'adultos'. If you are talking about a group consisting entirely of women, you use the feminine plural form, which is 'adultas'. Understanding these basic rules of gender and number agreement is absolutely crucial for building a strong foundation in Spanish. At this beginner stage, you will primarily use the word 'adulto' to describe yourself or others in simple sentences. For example, you might say 'Yo soy un adulto' which translates to 'I am an adult'. You might also use it to distinguish between adults and children, such as in the sentence 'El boleto para adultos cuesta diez euros, y el boleto para niños cuesta cinco euros', meaning 'The adult ticket costs ten euros, and the child ticket costs five euros'. Notice how the word 'adulto' is used here to specify the type of ticket. This is a very common real-world application of the word that you will encounter when traveling, visiting museums, or going to the movies in a Spanish-speaking country. Additionally, you might hear the word used as an adjective, describing someone who is fully grown. While learning this word, it is also helpful to learn its opposite, which is 'niño' for a boy or 'niña' for a girl. By contrasting these two concepts, your brain will more easily remember the meaning of 'adulto'. As you practice, try to look at people around you and mentally categorize them as 'adulto', 'adulta', 'niño', or 'niña'. This active recall will solidify the vocabulary in your memory. Remember that language learning is a journey, and mastering basic words like 'adulto' is a significant step forward in your ability to communicate effectively in everyday situations.

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As you progress to the A2 elementary level in Spanish, your ability to use the word 'adulto' and 'adulta' will expand beyond simple identification and ticket purchasing. At this stage, you are learning to describe people in more detail, discuss daily routines, and express basic opinions. You will start using 'adulto' not just as a standalone noun, but in conjunction with various descriptive adjectives to paint a clearer picture of the person you are talking about. For instance, you might describe someone as 'un adulto responsable' (a responsible adult), 'un adulto joven' (a young adult), or 'un adulto trabajador' (a hardworking adult). Notice that in Spanish, the descriptive adjective typically follows the noun it modifies, which is the opposite of English word order. This is a crucial grammatical pattern to master at the A2 level. Furthermore, you will begin to use 'adulto' to discuss the responsibilities and daily lives of grown-ups compared to children. You might construct sentences like 'Los adultos tienen que trabajar todos los días, pero los niños van a la escuela' (Adults have to work every day, but children go to school). This demonstrates your ability to use coordinating conjunctions like 'pero' (but) to contrast different groups of people. You will also encounter 'adulto' in the context of rules and permissions. For example, you might read a sign that says 'Los niños deben estar acompañados por un adulto' (Children must be accompanied by an adult). Understanding this type of instructional language is essential for navigating public spaces safely and correctly in a Spanish-speaking environment. Additionally, you will start to recognize 'adulto' used as an adjective modifying other nouns, such as 'ropa de adulto' (adult clothing) or 'comida para adultos' (food for adults). This shows the versatility of the word. As you practice your listening and reading skills, pay attention to how native speakers use 'adulto' in different contexts. Try to incorporate it into your own speaking and writing by describing the adults in your life, their professions, and their routines. By actively using the word in more complex sentences, you will deepen your understanding of its nuances and improve your overall fluency. Remember to always pay attention to gender and number agreement, ensuring that 'adulto' matches the person or people you are describing. Consistent practice at this level will make the use of 'adulto' feel natural and effortless.

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Reaching the B1 intermediate level signifies a significant leap in your Spanish proficiency, allowing you to discuss more abstract concepts, societal structures, and legal definitions. At this stage, your use of the word 'adulto' will become much more nuanced and sophisticated. You will move beyond simply identifying grown-ups and begin to explore what it actually means to be an adult in a Spanish-speaking culture. A key concept you will encounter is the legal definition of adulthood. You will learn the phrase 'mayor de edad', which is the formal legal term for someone who has reached the age of majority (usually 18). You can discuss this by saying, 'Cuando cumples 18 años, te conviertes en un adulto y eres mayor de edad ante la ley' (When you turn 18, you become an adult and are of legal age before the law). This allows you to engage in conversations about rights, such as voting ('votar') or getting a driver's license ('sacar la licencia de conducir'). Furthermore, you will use 'adulto' to discuss the psychological and emotional aspects of growing up. You might talk about the transition from adolescence to adulthood, using phrases like 'la transición a la vida adulta' (the transition to adult life). You can express opinions on maturity, stating, 'Ser un adulto no solo depende de la edad, sino también de la madurez y la responsabilidad' (Being an adult doesn't just depend on age, but also on maturity and responsibility). This demonstrates your ability to articulate complex thoughts and formulate arguments. At the B1 level, you will also frequently encounter the term 'adulto mayor'. This is a highly respectful and culturally significant phrase used throughout Latin America to refer to senior citizens. Understanding and using this term correctly is crucial for showing cultural sensitivity and respect. You might discuss social policies, such as 'El gobierno ofrece descuentos especiales para el adulto mayor en el transporte público' (The government offers special discounts for senior citizens on public transport). Additionally, you will start reading more complex texts, such as news articles or opinion pieces, where 'población adulta' (adult population) is used in demographic discussions. By mastering these diverse applications of 'adulto', you are not just learning a word; you are gaining insight into the social fabric and legal frameworks of the Spanish-speaking world, enabling you to participate in deeper, more meaningful conversations.

At the B2 upper-intermediate level, your command of Spanish allows you to engage with complex texts, abstract ideas, and nuanced cultural discussions. Your use of the word 'adulto' will reflect this advanced proficiency. You are no longer just learning the definition; you are exploring the sociological, psychological, and literary dimensions of adulthood. You will frequently use the abstract noun 'la adultez' (adulthood) to discuss this stage of life as a concept. For example, you might write an essay or participate in a debate about the challenges of modern life, stating, 'La adultez contemporánea está marcada por la inestabilidad laboral y la presión financiera' (Contemporary adulthood is marked by job instability and financial pressure). This demonstrates your ability to use sophisticated vocabulary and construct complex, analytical sentences. You will also encounter 'adulto' in professional and academic contexts. In a business setting, you might discuss target demographics, referring to 'el consumidor adulto' (the adult consumer) or 'el mercado de adultos jóvenes' (the young adult market). In educational contexts, you will understand and use terms like 'andragogía' (the method and practice of teaching adult learners) and 'educación continua para adultos' (continuing education for adults). Furthermore, you will be able to understand idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms related to age and maturity. While 'adulto' itself isn't heavily featured in idioms, the concept of acting like one is. You might say, 'Ya es hora de que asuma sus responsabilidades y se comporte como un adulto hecho y derecho' (It's about time he assumes his responsibilities and behaves like a full-fledged adult). The phrase 'hecho y derecho' adds a layer of native-like fluency to your speech. At this level, you are also expected to grasp the subtle differences between synonyms. You will know exactly when to use 'adulto' (referring to the state of being fully grown), 'maduro' (referring to emotional maturity), and 'mayor' (referring to advanced age), and you will use them accurately to convey precise meanings. Your reading comprehension will allow you to understand literature where the loss of childhood innocence and the harsh realities of the 'mundo adulto' (adult world) are central themes. By integrating these advanced uses of 'adulto' and its related concepts into your vocabulary, you demonstrate a high level of linguistic competence and cultural awareness, allowing you to communicate effectively in almost any situation.

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Achieving the C1 advanced level means you possess a highly proficient, near-native command of the Spanish language. At this stage, your use of the word 'adulto' and its derivatives is effortless, precise, and deeply integrated into complex, abstract discourse. You are capable of discussing the concept of adulthood from philosophical, legal, and sociological perspectives with ease. You will confidently use terms like 'la adultez emergente' (emerging adulthood) to discuss the modern psychological phenomenon where the transition to full adult responsibilities is delayed. You can articulate complex arguments about societal expectations, such as, 'La sociedad impone una serie de hitos normativos que definen la adultez, como el matrimonio o la adquisición de una vivienda, los cuales son cada vez más inalcanzables para las nuevas generaciones' (Society imposes a series of normative milestones that define adulthood, such as marriage or homeownership, which are increasingly unattainable for new generations). This level of expression requires not only a deep understanding of the vocabulary but also the ability to structure sophisticated, multi-clause sentences. In professional and academic writing, you will use 'adulto' as a precise demographic classifier. You might analyze statistical data, writing about 'la tasa de alfabetización en la población adulta' (the literacy rate in the adult population) or 'la morbilidad en adultos mayores' (morbidity in older adults). You are also acutely aware of register and tone. You know that while 'adulto' is a neutral, standard term, using 'un mayor' can sometimes be more tactful depending on the context, and you navigate these subtleties flawlessly. Furthermore, you can comprehend and employ irony or sarcasm related to maturity. You might playfully critique someone's behavior by saying, 'Para ser un adulto supuestamente funcional, su capacidad de resolución de conflictos es alarmantemente infantil' (For a supposedly functional adult, his conflict resolution capacity is alarmingly childish). You also understand the legal jargon surrounding adulthood, such as 'la emancipación' (emancipation) and 'la capacidad de obrar' (legal capacity to act), which are inextricably linked to becoming an 'adulto' in the eyes of the law. At the C1 level, 'adulto' is not just a vocabulary word; it is a conceptual tool that you use to analyze, critique, and describe the human experience within the Spanish-speaking cultural framework.

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At the C2 mastery level, your understanding and application of the Spanish language are virtually indistinguishable from that of an educated native speaker. You possess an exhaustive command of vocabulary, including the most subtle, obscure, and highly specialized uses of the word 'adulto' and its related lexical family. You navigate complex literary, academic, and legal texts with complete comprehension. In literature, you can analyze how authors use the concept of 'la adultez' to explore existential themes, the loss of innocence, or the burden of societal conformity. You can eloquently discuss the 'bildungsroman' (novela de aprendizaje) and how the protagonist's journey culminates in their integration into the 'mundo adulto'. Your vocabulary includes highly specific terms; for instance, in biology or entomology, you effortlessly discuss the 'estadio adulto' or 'imago' of an insect, understanding the precise scientific terminology. In legal and bureaucratic contexts, you are familiar with the archaic or highly formal phrasing that might appear in historical documents or complex legislation regarding 'la mayoría de edad' and the rights of the 'ciudadano adulto'. You can engage in high-level debates about developmental psychology, discussing the cognitive differences between the 'cerebro adolescente' and the 'cerebro adulto', using specialized terminology without hesitation. Furthermore, your mastery of Spanish allows you to play with the language. You can create neologisms or use words in innovative ways, perhaps coining a phrase or using 'adulto' as a verb in a poetic or metaphorical sense (though 'adulterar' exists, you know it means to adulterate, not to become an adult, avoiding the false friend trap perfectly). You understand the deep cultural connotations of adulthood across different Spanish-speaking regions, recognizing how the expectations of an 'adulto' might differ subtly between a rural community in the Andes and a metropolitan center like Madrid or Buenos Aires. You can seamlessly code-switch between highly formal, academic discussions of 'la demografía adulta' and colloquial, everyday banter about 'las responsabilidades de ser adulto'. At this pinnacle of language proficiency, the word 'adulto' is fully integrated into your expansive linguistic repertoire, allowing you to express the most complex, nuanced, and profound ideas with absolute precision, elegance, and cultural authenticity.

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Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas

adulto/a em 30 segundos

Fully grown person.
Over 18 years old.
Legally responsible individual.
Mature animal or plant.

The Spanish word 'adulto' (masculine) or 'adulta' (feminine) is a fundamental vocabulary item that translates directly to 'adult' in English. It refers to a person, animal, or plant that is fully grown or developed. In human terms, it signifies someone who has reached the age of majority, which in most Spanish-speaking countries is eighteen years old, though historically and in some specific legal contexts, it could be twenty-one. Reaching adulthood is a significant milestone across all cultures, marking the transition from childhood and adolescence into a phase of life characterized by independence, legal responsibility, and societal expectations. When people use the word 'adulto', they are often distinguishing someone from a child ('niño' or 'niña') or a teenager ('adolescente'). This distinction is crucial in everyday life, from purchasing tickets for transportation or entertainment, where prices often differ based on age, to understanding legal rights and obligations.

El adulto debe firmar el documento legal para autorizar la excursión de los estudiantes.

Beyond the strict legal definition, 'adulto' also carries profound psychological and social connotations. It implies a level of maturity, rational decision-making, and the ability to take care of oneself and others. In conversation, you might hear someone say 'tienes que comportarte como un adulto', meaning 'you have to behave like an adult', which underscores the behavioral expectations associated with this stage of life.

Biological Adulthood: The stage where an organism has reached full physical development and reproductive capacity.

In medical and scientific contexts, 'adulto' is used to describe fully developed organisms, distinguishing them from larvae, juveniles, or infants. For instance, a biologist might study the 'fase adulta' (adult phase) of an insect.

La mariposa adulta emerge de su crisálida después de varias semanas de metamorfosis.

In the realm of education, 'educación para adultos' (adult education) is a common phrase referring to programs designed for individuals who are past the traditional schooling age but wish to continue their learning, acquire new skills, or complete basic education. The concept of adulthood is also deeply intertwined with cultural norms. In many Hispanic cultures, family ties remain incredibly strong even after children become adults. It is not uncommon for young adults to live with their parents until they marry or achieve significant financial stability, which contrasts with the expectation of immediate independence found in some other cultures.

Legal Adulthood: The age at which a person is legally recognized as fully responsible for their actions, typically 18 in Spain and Latin America.

When discussing demographics or public policy, the term 'población adulta' (adult population) is frequently employed to analyze workforce participation, voting trends, and healthcare needs.

La población adulta tiene el derecho y el deber de participar en las elecciones democráticas.

Furthermore, the term 'adulto mayor' is a highly respectful and widely used phrase in Latin America to refer to senior citizens, replacing older, sometimes pejorative terms like 'viejo'. This reflects a cultural reverence for age and experience. Understanding the multifaceted uses of 'adulto/a' is essential for anyone learning Spanish, as it navigates the boundaries of age, responsibility, biology, and social structure.

Social Adulthood: The perception by society that an individual is capable of independent living, holding a job, and contributing to the community.

Whether you are reading a news article about the 'vida adulta' (adult life), filling out a form that asks if you are an 'adulto', or simply having a conversation about growing up, this word is indispensable.

Es difícil hacer la transición a la vida adulta con todas las nuevas responsabilidades financieras.

In summary, 'adulto' is more than just a label for age; it is a comprehensive term that encapsulates the physical, legal, and emotional maturity of an individual within the Spanish-speaking world.

Como adulto, tienes que tomar decisiones difíciles que afectarán tu futuro a largo plazo.

Using the word 'adulto' or 'adulta' correctly in Spanish sentences requires a solid understanding of gender and number agreement, as well as recognizing its dual function as both a noun and an adjective. Because Spanish is a heavily inflected language, the endings of words must match the gender (masculine or feminine) and number (singular or plural) of the nouns they describe or represent. When used as a noun to refer to a male adult, you use 'el adulto'. For a female adult, you use 'la adulta'.

El adulto responsable siempre paga sus impuestos a tiempo cada año.

If you are talking about a group of male adults, or a mixed group of male and female adults, the masculine plural form 'los adultos' is required. This is a standard rule in Spanish grammar where the masculine plural acts as the default for mixed-gender groups.

Noun Usage: Functions as the subject or object of a sentence, representing the person who is fully grown.

Conversely, if the group consists entirely of female adults, you must use the feminine plural form 'las adultas'.

Las adultas en la sala de conferencias discutieron las nuevas políticas de la empresa.

Beyond its use as a noun, 'adulto/a' frequently functions as an adjective. When it modifies a noun, it must agree with that noun in gender and number. For example, 'vida' (life) is a feminine singular noun, so you say 'la vida adulta' (adult life). If you are talking about adult animals, such as cats ('gatos', masculine plural), you would say 'los gatos adultos'.

Adjective Usage: Describes a noun, indicating that the entity has reached full maturity or is intended for mature individuals.

Another common construction involves the preposition 'de', as in 'cosas de adultos' (adult things) or 'problemas de adultos' (adult problems). This structure is used to categorize items, concepts, or situations that are exclusively or primarily associated with grown-ups.

Pagar la hipoteca y los seguros son verdaderos problemas de adultos.

You will also encounter 'adulto' in compound phrases, the most prominent being 'adulto mayor', which translates to 'senior citizen'. In this case, 'mayor' acts as an adjective modifying the noun 'adulto'. When forming sentences, 'adulto' can be placed in various positions depending on its role. As a subject noun: 'El adulto lee el periódico' (The adult reads the newspaper). As an object: 'Vi a un adulto' (I saw an adult). As an adjective: 'Es un perro adulto' (It is an adult dog).

Compound Phrases: Combinations like 'adulto mayor' or 'educación de adultos' where the word is part of a fixed expression.

It is also frequently used with verbs like 'comportarse' (to behave) or 'actuar' (to act), as in 'actúa como un adulto' (act like an adult).

Por favor, deja de jugar y compórtate como el adulto que eres.

Furthermore, in legal or formal writing, you might see phrases like 'en edad adulta' (in adulthood/of adult age). Mastering these sentence structures will significantly enhance your fluency and allow you to express complex ideas about age, maturity, and responsibility with precision and confidence.

El contenido de esta película está clasificado solo para un público adulto.

The word 'adulto' and its feminine and plural forms are ubiquitous in the Spanish-speaking world, appearing in a vast array of contexts ranging from casual daily conversations to highly formal legal and medical documents. One of the most common places you will encounter this word is in the tourism and entertainment industries. Whenever you are buying tickets for a museum, a cinema, a train, or an amusement park, you will invariably see pricing categories divided into 'adultos' and 'niños'.

Dos boletos para adultos y uno para niño, por favor.

This practical application makes it an essential survival word for any traveler. In the realm of media and broadcasting, television programs, movies, and video games frequently use the term to indicate age ratings and content warnings. You might hear an announcer say that a program is 'solo para adultos' (for adults only) or see a label indicating 'contenido adulto' (adult content), which serves as a warning that the material contains violence, strong language, or mature themes.

Entertainment & Media: Used extensively for age ratings, ticket pricing, and content warnings in cinemas, TV, and events.

In healthcare settings, doctors and nurses use 'adulto' to differentiate medical treatments, dosages, and specialized care. A hospital might have a 'sala de emergencias para adultos' (adult emergency room) distinct from the pediatric ward.

La dosis recomendada de este medicamento para un adulto es de dos pastillas cada ocho horas.

Furthermore, in legal and administrative environments, the term is strictly defined. Contracts, government forms, and identification documents often require confirmation that the individual is an 'adulto' to ensure they have the legal capacity to sign agreements or vote. In educational contexts, 'educación de adultos' is a prominent sector dedicated to lifelong learning, literacy programs, and vocational training for those who have surpassed standard school age.

Healthcare: Crucial for determining medication dosages, specialized hospital wards, and distinct biological treatments.

You will also hear the word frequently in everyday social interactions, especially when discussing family dynamics, responsibilities, or the transition of teenagers into independence. Parents might proudly state that their children are now 'adultos' when they graduate from university or move out of the family home.

Mis hijos ya son adultos y viven en sus propios apartamentos en la ciudad.

Additionally, the phrase 'adulto mayor' is heard constantly in news reports, government public service announcements, and polite conversation throughout Latin America to refer to the elderly population, discussing their pensions, healthcare needs, and social contributions. In literature and psychology, the concept of 'la adultez' (adulthood) is a common theme, exploring the emotional and psychological burdens and freedoms that come with growing up.

Daily Conversation: Used to discuss maturity, family milestones, and the contrast between childhood behaviors and grown-up responsibilities.

Whether you are reading a serious sociological study, watching a soap opera where a character is told to face their 'problemas de adulto', or simply navigating a foreign city, 'adulto' is a word that anchors much of the societal structure and daily communication in Spanish.

El seminario está diseñado para cualquier adulto que quiera mejorar sus habilidades financieras.

Familiarizing yourself with these diverse contexts will not only improve your vocabulary but also deepen your cultural understanding of how age and maturity are perceived and categorized in Hispanic societies.

En caso de emergencia, un adulto debe colocar su propia máscara de oxígeno antes de ayudar a los niños.

When learning the Spanish word 'adulto/a', English speakers frequently encounter a few specific pitfalls related to grammar, false friends, and cultural nuances. The most prevalent mistake is failing to apply proper gender agreement. Because the English word 'adult' is gender-neutral, learners often default to 'adulto' even when referring specifically to a woman. It is crucial to remember that if the adult in question is female, the word must be 'adulta'.

Mi hermana ya es una adulta independiente que trabaja en Madrid.

Saying 'Mi hermana es un adulto' sounds grammatically incorrect to a native speaker, akin to mixing up pronouns in English. Similarly, pluralization errors are common. Learners might say 'los adulto' instead of 'los adultos', forgetting that adjectives and nouns must agree in number as well as gender.

Gender Agreement Error: Using the masculine 'adulto' when referring to a female, instead of the correct feminine form 'adulta'.

Another significant area of confusion arises from false friends or deceptive cognates. The English word 'adultery' translates to 'adulterio' in Spanish, and 'adulterate' translates to 'adulterar'. While they share a distant etymological root, their meanings are drastically different. A learner might mistakenly try to use a variation of 'adulto' to describe an affair, leading to highly confusing or embarrassing situations.

El debate sobre la edad adulta legal continúa en el parlamento.

Furthermore, English speakers often confuse 'adulto' with 'mayor'. While both can relate to age, 'mayor' generally means 'older' or 'elderly' (as in 'persona mayor'), whereas 'adulto' strictly means 'adult'. Saying 'soy muy adulto' (I am very adult) sounds unnatural; a native speaker would say 'soy mayor' (I am older) or 'soy un adulto' (I am an adult). Pronunciation also presents minor challenges. The Spanish 'd' in 'adulto' is softer and more dental than the hard English 'd', and the vowels must be pronounced clearly and crisply (ah-dool-toh), without the English tendency to reduce the final 'o' to a schwa sound.

Vocabulary Confusion: Mixing up 'adulto' (adult) with 'mayor' (older/elderly) or 'maduro' (mature).

Another mistake is related to the phrase 'adulto mayor'. English speakers might literally translate 'senior citizen' to 'ciudadano mayor', which is understood but less natural in many Latin American countries than the standard 'adulto mayor'.

El programa del gobierno ofrece asistencia médica gratuita para cada adulto mayor en la comunidad.

Additionally, when using 'adulto' as an adjective, learners sometimes place it before the noun, following English syntax (e.g., 'el adulto hombre'). In Spanish, descriptive adjectives typically follow the noun, so it should be 'el hombre adulto'. Finally, learners sometimes struggle with the abstract noun 'adulthood'. They might try to say 'la adultidad' or 'el adultismo', but the correct term is 'la adultez' or 'la edad adulta'.

Abstract Noun Error: Inventing words for 'adulthood' instead of using the correct terms 'adultez' or 'edad adulta'.

By being aware of these common pitfalls—especially gender agreement, the distinction between 'adulto' and 'mayor', and proper adjective placement—you can significantly improve the naturalness and accuracy of your Spanish.

Alcanzar la adultez trae consigo muchas libertades, pero también muchas obligaciones.

Consistent practice and exposure to native materials will help solidify these rules, ensuring that you use 'adulto/a' correctly in all its various forms and contexts.

Ningún adulto debería ignorar su salud física y mental.

While 'adulto' is the most direct and common translation for 'adult', the Spanish language offers a rich tapestry of synonyms and related terms that convey subtle nuances of age, maturity, and life stages. Understanding these alternatives is key to achieving fluency and expressing yourself with precision. One of the most frequently encountered alternatives is 'mayor'. When used as an adjective, 'mayor' means 'older' or 'elder' (e.g., 'mi hermano mayor' - my older brother). However, when used as a noun, 'un mayor' or 'una persona mayor' refers to an elderly person or a senior citizen.

Aunque es un adulto joven, tiene la sabiduría de una persona mayor.

It is important not to confuse 'adulto' (which simply means one has reached the age of majority) with 'mayor' (which implies advanced age). Another closely related word is 'maduro/a', which translates to 'mature'. While an 'adulto' is biologically or legally grown, a person who is 'maduro' exhibits psychological and emotional maturity.

Maduro vs Adulto: 'Adulto' refers to the physical or legal state of being fully grown, while 'maduro' refers to emotional or psychological maturity.

You can have an 'adulto inmaduro' (an immature adult) or a 'joven maduro' (a mature youth). For legal contexts, the phrase 'mayor de edad' is the precise equivalent of 'of legal age'. If someone turns eighteen, they become 'mayor de edad', which grants them the legal status of an 'adulto'.

Para firmar este contrato, es indispensable ser un adulto mayor de edad.

Conversely, a minor is a 'menor de edad'. In casual conversation, you might hear the word 'grande' used to mean adult or grown-up, especially by children. A child might say 'cuando sea grande' (when I am big/grown-up) instead of 'cuando sea adulto'. Another alternative, though more formal and slightly archaic in everyday speech, is 'crecido', meaning grown.

Mayor de edad: A strict legal term indicating that a person has reached the age of majority and possesses full legal rights.

For the elderly, besides 'adulto mayor' and 'persona mayor', the word 'anciano/a' is used, which translates to 'ancient' or 'very old man/woman'. However, 'anciano' can sometimes carry a frail connotation, which is why 'adulto mayor' is often preferred in official and polite contexts in Latin America.

El centro comunitario ofrece actividades tanto para el adulto joven como para el adulto mayor.

In specific professional or demographic contexts, you might encounter terms like 'veterano' (veteran, experienced person) or 'sénior' (borrowed from English/Latin, used in corporate hierarchies or sports). Understanding these distinctions allows you to choose the exact word for the situation. If you are talking about legal rights, use 'mayor de edad'. If you are talking about emotional development, use 'maduro'. If you are talking generally about fully grown people, 'adulto' is your best choice.

Grande: An informal, colloquial way to say 'grown-up', predominantly used by or when speaking to children.

By expanding your vocabulary to include these synonyms and related terms, you enrich your Spanish and gain the ability to navigate complex social interactions with cultural sensitivity and linguistic accuracy.

Es fascinante observar cómo un niño se transforma gradualmente en un adulto responsable.

La literatura para jóvenes a menudo explora la línea borrosa entre ser adolescente y ser adulto.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"El individuo debe ser un adulto mayor de edad para firmar el contrato."

Neutro

"Hay tres adultos y dos niños en la sala."

Informal

"Ya eres un adulto, hazte tu propia cena."

Child friendly

"Pregúntale a un adulto si puedes cruzar la calle."

Gíria

"Puros problemas de grandes, ya soy adulto."

Curiosidade

The words 'adult' and 'adolescent' are essentially the past and present tenses of the same Latin verb for growing. An adolescent is currently growing, while an adult has already grown.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /aˈdul.to/

US /aˈdul.to/

a-DUL-to

Rima com

bulto culto insulto oculto tumulto indulto consulto inconsulto

Erros comuns

Pronouncing the 'u' like the 'u' in 'but' instead of the 'oo' in 'pool'.
Putting the stress on the first syllable (A-dul-to) instead of the second (a-DUL-to).
Pronouncing the 'd' too hard. In Spanish, the 'd' is dental, meaning the tongue touches the back of the upper teeth.
Reducing the final 'o' to an 'uh' sound (schwa). It must be a clear, crisp 'o'.
Failing to change the final 'o' to an 'a' when referring to a female.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 1/5

Very easy to recognize due to its similarity to the English word 'adult'.

Escrita 2/5

Easy, but requires remembering gender agreement (o/a).

Expressão oral 2/5

Easy to pronounce, just remember the soft 'd' and clear vowels.

Audição 1/5

Easily distinguishable in spoken Spanish.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

niño hombre mujer persona años

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mayor joven anciano maduro responsabilidad

Avançado

adultez emancipación andragogía senectud imago

Gramática essencial

Gender Agreement

El adulto (masculine) vs. La adulta (feminine). Adjectives must match the noun's gender.

Number Agreement

El adulto (singular) vs. Los adultos (plural). Add 's' to make it plural.

Adjective Placement

Un adulto responsable. Descriptive adjectives usually follow the noun.

Preposition 'de' for categorization

Ropa de adulto. Used to indicate what category something belongs to.

Definite Articles

El, la, los, las are used before 'adulto' depending on gender and number.

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Exemplos por nível

Yo soy un adulto.

I am an adult.

Uses the masculine singular noun 'adulto'.

Ella es una adulta.

She is an adult.

Uses the feminine singular noun 'adulta'.

Los adultos trabajan.

Adults work.

Uses the masculine plural noun 'adultos'.

El boleto de adulto cuesta más.

The adult ticket costs more.

Uses 'de adulto' to specify the type of ticket.

No soy un niño, soy un adulto.

I am not a child, I am an adult.

Contrasts 'niño' with 'adulto'.

Hay tres adultos aquí.

There are three adults here.

Uses a number with the plural noun.

El perro es adulto.

The dog is an adult.

Uses 'adulto' as an adjective for an animal.

Las adultas leen el libro.

The adult women read the book.

Uses the feminine plural noun 'adultas'.

Mi hermano mayor ya es un adulto.

My older brother is already an adult.

Combines 'mayor' (older) with 'adulto'.

Los niños deben viajar con un adulto.

Children must travel with an adult.

Uses 'con un adulto' to show accompaniment.

Es un problema de adultos.

It is an adult problem.

Uses 'de adultos' to categorize the noun 'problema'.

La ropa de adulto está en el segundo piso.

Adult clothing is on the second floor.

Uses 'ropa de adulto' as a compound concept.

Un adulto responsable paga sus cuentas.

A responsible adult pays their bills.

Uses the descriptive adjective 'responsable' after 'adulto'.

Esta película es solo para adultos.

This movie is for adults only.

Uses 'para adultos' to indicate the target audience.

Los gatos adultos duermen mucho.

Adult cats sleep a lot.

Uses 'adultos' as a plural adjective modifying 'gatos'.

Ella actúa como una adulta.

She acts like an adult.

Uses 'como una adulta' to make a comparison.

Al cumplir dieciocho años, te conviertes en adulto legalmente.

Upon turning eighteen, you legally become an adult.

Uses 'conviertes en adulto' to show transition.

La educación para adultos es muy importante en esta comunidad.

Adult education is very important in this community.

Uses the fixed phrase 'educación para adultos'.

El descuento aplica para cualquier adulto mayor de 65 años.

The discount applies to any senior citizen over 65.

Uses the cultural phrase 'adulto mayor'.

La vida adulta está llena de responsabilidades financieras.

Adult life is full of financial responsibilities.

Uses 'adulta' as a feminine adjective modifying 'vida'.

Necesitamos la firma de un adulto para autorizar la excursión.

We need the signature of an adult to authorize the field trip.

Uses 'firma de un adulto' in an administrative context.

La población adulta del país ha aumentado este año.

The adult population of the country has increased this year.

Uses 'población adulta' in a demographic context.

Es difícil hacer amigos nuevos en la edad adulta.

It is difficult to make new friends in adulthood.

Uses the phrase 'edad adulta' to mean adulthood.

El insecto pasa de larva a su forma adulta en dos semanas.

The insect goes from larva to its adult form in two weeks.

Uses 'forma adulta' in a biological context.

La transición hacia la adultez es un proceso psicológico complejo.

The transition toward adulthood is a complex psychological process.

Uses the abstract noun 'adultez'.

El mercado laboral actual exige mucho al joven adulto.

The current job market demands a lot from the young adult.

Uses 'joven adulto' as a specific demographic category.

Asumir las consecuencias de tus actos es propio de un adulto maduro.

Assuming the consequences of your actions is typical of a mature adult.

Combines 'adulto' with the adjective 'maduro' for emphasis.

El contenido de esta novela está dirigido a un público estrictamente adulto.

The content of this novel is aimed at a strictly adult audience.

Uses 'público adulto' to describe the target readership.

Las políticas públicas deben proteger los derechos del adulto mayor.

Public policies must protect the rights of the senior citizen.

Uses 'adulto mayor' in a formal, political context.

Muchos jóvenes postergan su entrada definitiva al mundo adulto.

Many young people postpone their definitive entry into the adult world.

Uses the metaphorical phrase 'mundo adulto'.

La andragogía es la disciplina que se ocupa de la educación del adulto.

Andragogy is the discipline that deals with adult education.

Uses 'educación del adulto' in an academic definition.

Se comportó con la entereza que se espera de un adulto hecho y derecho.

He behaved with the fortitude expected of a full-fledged adult.

Uses the idiomatic expression 'adulto hecho y derecho'.

La adultez emergente es un fenómeno sociológico cada vez más estudiado.

Emerging adulthood is an increasingly studied sociological phenomenon.

Uses the academic term 'adultez emergente'.

El desarrollo cognitivo continúa perfeccionándose durante la etapa adulta temprana.

Cognitive development continues to be refined during the early adult stage.

Uses 'etapa adulta temprana' for precise life stage description.

La morbilidad en la población adulta mayor requiere una atención sanitaria especializada.

Morbidity in the older adult population requires specialized healthcare.

Uses complex medical and demographic terminology ('población adulta mayor').

Alcanzar la mayoría de edad no garantiza automáticamente la madurez de un adulto funcional.

Reaching the age of majority does not automatically guarantee the maturity of a functional adult.

Contrasts legal age ('mayoría de edad') with psychological maturity ('adulto funcional').

La novela explora la desilusión inherente a la vida adulta contemporánea.

The novel explores the disillusionment inherent in contemporary adult life.

Uses 'vida adulta contemporánea' in a literary analysis context.

El individuo adulto posee plena capacidad de obrar según el código civil.

The adult individual possesses full legal capacity to act according to the civil code.

Uses legal jargon ('capacidad de obrar') alongside 'individuo adulto'.

Es imperativo fomentar la alfabetización digital entre los adultos mayores para evitar la brecha tecnológica.

It is imperative to promote digital literacy among older adults to avoid the technological gap.

Discusses complex social issues involving 'adultos mayores'.

Su reacción fue pueril, totalmente impropia de un adulto en su posición.

His reaction was puerile, totally improper for an adult in his position.

Uses advanced vocabulary ('pueril', 'impropia') to contrast with 'adulto'.

El imago, o fase adulta del lepidóptero, se caracteriza por su efímera existencia.

The imago, or adult phase of the lepidopteran, is characterized by its ephemeral existence.

Uses highly specialized biological terminology ('imago', 'fase adulta').

La jurisprudencia establece claramente los límites de la responsabilidad penal del adulto.

Jurisprudence clearly establishes the limits of the adult's criminal responsibility.

Uses advanced legal terminology ('jurisprudencia', 'responsabilidad penal').

El autor disecciona magistralmente la hipocresía subyacente en las convenciones del mundo adulto.

The author masterfully dissects the underlying hypocrisy in the conventions of the adult world.

Uses sophisticated literary analysis vocabulary ('disecciona', 'subyacente').

La senectud no debe verse como un declive, sino como la culminación de la experiencia adulta.

Senescence should not be seen as a decline, but as the culmination of adult experience.

Uses rare vocabulary ('senectud') to discuss the end of the 'experiencia adulta'.

Las dinámicas de poder en las relaciones adultas a menudo reflejan traumas infantiles no resueltos.

Power dynamics in adult relationships often reflect unresolved childhood traumas.

Discusses complex psychological concepts using 'relaciones adultas'.

El estado de bienestar debe garantizar una red de seguridad robusta para el adulto vulnerable.

The welfare state must guarantee a robust safety net for the vulnerable adult.

Uses sociopolitical terminology ('estado de bienestar', 'adulto vulnerable').

Su prosa destila una melancolía intrínseca a la asunción de la adultez ineludible.

His prose exudes a melancholy intrinsic to the assumption of unavoidable adulthood.

Uses highly poetic and abstract language ('adultez ineludible').

La emancipación jurídica otorga al menor los derechos patrimoniales propios de un adulto.

Legal emancipation grants the minor the patrimonial rights typical of an adult.

Uses dense legal phrasing ('emancipación jurídica', 'derechos patrimoniales').

Colocações comuns

vida adulta

edad adulta

adulto mayor

educación de adultos

público adulto

contenido adulto

adulto joven

boleto de adulto

comportarse como adulto

responsabilidad de adulto

Frases Comuns

ser un adulto

cosas de adultos

solo para adultos

hacerse adulto

tarifa de adulto

mundo adulto

como un adulto

adulto responsable

etapa adulta

problemas de adultos

Frequentemente confundido com

adulto/a vs mayor

'Mayor' usually means 'older' or 'elderly', while 'adulto' simply means 'adult'.

adulto/a vs maduro

'Maduro' refers to emotional maturity or ripe fruit, not strictly legal or biological adulthood.

adulto/a vs adulterio

A false friend. 'Adulterio' means adultery (cheating in a marriage), not adulthood.

Expressões idiomáticas

"adulto hecho y derecho"

A full-fledged adult. Someone who is completely mature and established.

Ya es un adulto hecho y derecho, con su propia casa.

neutral

"comportarse a la altura"

To behave up to the standard (of an adult). To act maturely in a given situation.

Espero que te comportes a la altura en la reunión.

formal

"tener los pies en la tierra"

To have one's feet on the ground. To be realistic and mature, a trait expected of adults.

Como adulto, debes tener los pies en la tierra.

informal

"sentar cabeza"

To settle down. To adopt a stable, adult lifestyle.

Ya es hora de que sientes cabeza y actúes como adulto.

informal

"vestirse por los pies"

To dress from the feet up. An old idiom meaning to be a real man/adult, to be honorable.

Es un hombre que se viste por los pies.

informal

"no ser un niño de pecho"

To not be a nursing baby. Meaning one is an adult and not naive.

No me engañarás, no soy un niño de pecho.

informal

"tener pelo en pecho"

To have hair on one's chest. A colloquial way to say someone is a fully grown man.

Ya es un hombre con pelo en pecho.

slang

"estar entradito en años"

To be getting on in years. Refers to an older adult.

El señor ya está entradito en años.

informal

"peinar canas"

To comb gray hair. To be an older, experienced adult.

Yo ya peino canas, tengo mucha experiencia.

informal

"mayor de edad"

Of legal age. The legal idiom for being an adult.

Al cumplir dieciocho, eres mayor de edad.

formal

Fácil de confundir

adulto/a vs mayor

Both relate to age.

'Adulto' is a state of being fully grown. 'Mayor' is a comparative (older) or refers to the elderly.

Mi hermano mayor es un adulto.

adulto/a vs maduro

Both imply being grown up.

'Adulto' is objective (age/biology). 'Maduro' is subjective (behavior/psychology).

Es un adulto, pero no es muy maduro.

adulto/a vs anciano

Both refer to older people.

'Anciano' specifically means a very old person, whereas an 'adulto' can be 18 years old.

El anciano es un adulto mayor.

adulto/a vs grande

Children use it to mean adult.

'Grande' literally means big. It's only used colloquially to mean adult.

El zapato es muy grande para el niño.

adulto/a vs adultez

Similar root.

'Adulto' is the person (noun) or characteristic (adjective). 'Adultez' is the abstract concept of adulthood.

La adultez es una etapa de la vida del adulto.

Padrões de frases

Ser + un/una + adulto/a.

Soy un adulto.

Noun + de + adulto.

Es un problema de adulto.

Comportarse como + un/una + adulto/a.

Debes comportarte como un adulto.

La transición a la vida adulta + verb.

La transición a la vida adulta es difícil.

Población adulta + adjective.

La población adulta mayor necesita cuidados.

Número + adultos.

Hay dos adultos.

Para + adultos.

El juego es para adultos.

Llegar a la edad adulta.

Llegó a la edad adulta con éxito.

Família de palavras

Substantivos

Adjetivos

Relacionado

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Como usar

frequency

Extremely common in both spoken and written Spanish.

Erros comuns

La adulto es mi madre. → La adulta es mi madre.
You must change the 'o' to an 'a' when referring to a female adult. 'Adulto' is not a gender-neutral noun in Spanish.
Tengo problemas de adultidad. → Tengo problemas de la adultez.
Learners often invent words like 'adultidad' by adding English-like suffixes. The correct abstract noun for adulthood is 'adultez'.
Mi hermano es muy adulto para su edad. → Mi hermano es muy maduro para su edad.
'Adulto' refers to the physical state of being grown. If you want to say someone acts older than their age, use 'maduro' (mature).
Los adulto trabajan mucho. → Los adultos trabajan mucho.
Do not forget to pluralize the noun by adding an 's' when referring to more than one adult.
Quiero vivir una adulta vida. → Quiero vivir una vida adulta.
In Spanish, descriptive adjectives typically follow the noun. Therefore, 'adult life' translates to 'vida adulta'.

Dicas

Gender is Key

Always match the ending (o/a) to the person's gender. 'El adulto' for a man, 'la adulta' for a woman.

Respectful Terms

Use 'adulto mayor' when talking about the elderly. It shows respect and cultural awareness.

Buying Tickets

Look for 'tarifa de adulto' when buying tickets for trains, museums, or movies to ensure you get the right price.

Adjective Placement

When using it as an adjective, put it after the noun: 'vida adulta', not 'adulta vida'.

False Friends

Never use 'adulterio' to mean adulthood. 'Adulterio' means cheating on a spouse!

Legal Contexts

If you are reading a contract, look for 'mayor de edad' instead of 'adulto' to confirm legal standing.

Soft D

Practice making the 'd' sound with your tongue on your teeth, not the roof of your mouth, for a native accent.

Living at Home

Remember that in Hispanic cultures, being an 'adulto' doesn't always mean moving out of the parents' house immediately.

Mixed Groups

If there is a group of 100 women and 1 man, grammatically, they are still 'los adultos' (masculine plural).

Abstract Noun

If you want to talk about the phase of life, use 'la adultez', not 'el adulto'.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Imagine a DULL TOy. An ADULT O doesn't play with a DULL TOy anymore because they are grown up.

Associação visual

Picture a height chart on a wall. A child is marked halfway up, but an ADULT reaches the very top mark, showing they are fully grown.

Word Web

adulto mayor responsabilidad trabajo dieciocho madurez crecer independencia

Desafio

Next time you are in a public place, mentally categorize the people you see into 'niño', 'niña', 'adulto', and 'adulta'. Try to form a sentence about one of the adults you see.

Origem da palavra

The word 'adulto' comes from the Latin word 'adultus'. 'Adultus' is the past participle of the Latin verb 'adolescere', which means 'to grow up' or 'to mature'. Therefore, 'adultus' literally translates to 'one who has grown up'. This is the same root that gives us the word 'adolescent' (from the present participle 'adolescens', meaning 'one who is growing up').

Significado original: One who has finished growing.

Indo-European > Italic > Romance > Ibero-Romance > Spanish

Contexto cultural

Always use 'adulto mayor' instead of 'viejo' when referring to the elderly to show proper respect.

In English-speaking cultures, 'adult' often implies immediate independence at 18. In Hispanic cultures, family interdependence remains strong even after one becomes an 'adulto'.

The movie 'Los Niños del Hombre' (Children of Men) contrasts a world without children, leaving only an aging 'población adulta'. The novel 'Cien años de soledad' by Gabriel García Márquez explores the cyclical nature of generations growing from children to 'adultos'. The song 'Cuando seas grande' by Miguel Mateos is a famous rock anthem about the pressures of becoming an adult.

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Buying Tickets

un boleto de adulto
tarifa para adultos
¿Cuánto cuesta para adultos?
dos adultos y un niño

Legal/Official

mayor de edad
firma de un adulto
identificación de adulto
responsabilidad legal

Entertainment

solo para adultos
contenido adulto
acompañado por un adulto
clasificación para adultos

Healthcare

dosis para adultos
hospital de adultos
adulto mayor
salud del adulto

Everyday Conversation

vida adulta
cosas de adultos
comportarse como adulto
hacerse adulto

Iniciadores de conversa

"¿A qué edad crees que una persona se convierte realmente en un adulto?"

"¿Cuál es la parte más difícil de la vida adulta para ti?"

"¿Crees que los jóvenes de hoy tardan más en hacerse adultos?"

"¿Qué consejo le darías a un adolescente que está a punto de ser adulto?"

"¿Cómo ha cambiado tu perspectiva de la vida desde que eres adulto?"

Temas para diário

Escribe sobre el momento exacto en el que te diste cuenta de que ya eras un adulto.

Describe las diferencias entre ser un niño y ser un adulto en tu cultura.

¿Cuáles son las responsabilidades de un adulto que más te cuestan manejar?

Imagina que puedes hablar con tu 'yo' adulto del futuro. ¿Qué le preguntarías?

Haz una lista de las ventajas y desventajas de la vida adulta.

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

No, you must use the feminine form 'adulta' when referring specifically to a woman. For example, 'Ella es una adulta'. However, if referring to a mixed group, use the masculine plural 'adultos'.

'Adulto' is a general term for a fully grown person. 'Mayor de edad' is a strict legal term meaning someone has reached the legal age of majority (usually 18). All 'mayores de edad' are adults, but 'adulto' is used more broadly in daily life.

The most polite and common way to say senior citizen in Latin America is 'adulto mayor'. You can also use 'persona mayor'. Avoid using 'viejo' as it can be considered rude.

Yes, 'adulto' can be an adjective. When it is, it must agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies. For example, 'la vida adulta' (adult life) or 'los gatos adultos' (adult cats).

It depends on the context, just like in English. 'El adulto' means 'the adult' (specific), while 'un adulto' means 'an adult' (general). For example, 'El adulto que vi' vs 'Necesito un adulto'.

The word for the abstract concept of adulthood is 'la adultez'. You can also use the phrase 'la edad adulta'. Do not use 'adulto' to mean adulthood.

'Los grandes' literally translates to 'the big ones'. It is a colloquial, child-friendly way of referring to grown-ups, similar to how kids in English might say 'the big kids' or 'grown-ups'.

No, 'adulto' is a completely neutral, descriptive word. Any positive or negative connotation would come from the adjectives added to it, like 'adulto responsable' or 'adulto inmaduro'.

Yes, 'adulto' is commonly used in biology and veterinary contexts to describe fully grown animals. For example, 'un perro adulto' means an adult dog.

It means 'adults only'. You will frequently see this phrase on movie ratings, at certain entertainment venues, or on products that are not suitable for children.

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