Is it said differently in some regions?
In many Spanish-speaking regions, it is common and correct to use the ordinal number primero instead of the cardinal number 1 when stating the date.
How does it change in a sentence?
When referring to the date as a specific point in time, such as in the phrase 'on April 1st', you must use the definite article el before the number (e.g., el 1 de abril). Additionally, in many regions, you may use the ordinal number el primero de abril instead of the cardinal number.
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often try to use ordinal numbers like primero for every day of the month, but in Spanish, only the first day of the month typically uses an ordinal form. All other days use cardinal numbers, such as el 2 de abril.
When do people say it?
While 'April Fools' Day' is understood, the cultural equivalent in many Spanish-speaking countries is el Día de los Inocentes, which is celebrated on December 28th.
Did you know?
- The Spanish word abril comes from the Latin Aprīlis, which was influenced by the Etruscan word urpa.
- While English speakers use 'April Fools' Day' to play pranks, Spanish speakers celebrate el Día de los Inocentes on December 28th. In many countries, people play jokes on each other on this day instead of in April.
Examples in context
- La reunión está programada para el primero de abril.The meeting is scheduled for April 1st.
- El evento se llevará a cabo el primero de abril.The event will take place on April 1st.
- Vamos a hacer una fiesta el 1 de abril.We're having a party on April 1st.
- Recuerda el cumpleaños de Juan, es el 1 de abril.Remember Juan's birthday, it's on April 1st.
- Mi cumpleaños es el 1 de abril.My birthday is April 1st.
- La fiesta es el 1 de abril.The party is on April 1st.
- El examen es el 1 de abril.The exam is on April 1st.
Example conversation
Sofía and Alejandro are talking about an upcoming event.
- Sofía¿Cuándo es la reunión?When is the meeting?
- AlejandroEs el 1 de abril.It is on April 1st.
- SofíaPerfecto, lo anotaré.Perfect, I will write it down.
- AlejandroMuy bien, Sofía.Very well, Sofía.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries abril, de, CC BY-SA 4.0.
