besos
/besos/from spelling rules
The Spanish word besos means "kisses."
besos is a plural noun that translates to "kisses" in English, referring to the act of pressing one's lips against another person. You can also use the singular form un beso to mean "a kiss," which is often used as a standard way to end a conversation or message.
Which one should you use?
While besos is a noun meaning "kisses," you should use the verb forms besa or besas (from the verb besar) if you want to describe the actual action of kissing.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Using besos as a sign-off in a letter or text message is informal and affectionate. For a more formal way to say "I send you a kiss," you can use Le envío un beso. Informal alternatives include Un besote for "a big kiss" or besito for "a small kiss", as well as Un abrazo y un par de besos for "a hug and a couple of kisses".
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, the phrase Un pico is used to mean "a peck".
How does it change in a sentence?
The singular form of the noun is beso.
How do you pronounce it?
/besos/
Did you know?
- In Spain, the social custom of dos besos involves kissing both cheeks, but you actually touch cheek to cheek and make a kissing sound in the air.
- The word beso is closely related to the word besamanos, a formal ceremony where people kiss the hand of a monarch or high official.
- While besos is common, some Spanish speakers use the word muac to write the actual sound of a kiss in a text message.
Examples in context
- Ella le dio dos besos en la mejilla.She gave him two kisses on the cheek.
- Los niños lanzan besos a la cámara.The children blow kisses to the camera.
- Muchos besos para todos en la fiesta.Many kisses to everyone at the party.
Example conversation
Lucía and Javier are saying goodbye over a video call.
- LucíaMe tengo que ir, Javier.I have to go, Javier.
- JavierEstá bien, Lucía. Hasta mañana.Alright, Lucía. See you tomorrow.
- Lucía¡Muchos besos!Many kisses!
- JavierBesos, adiós.Kisses, goodbye.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
