chica negra
/t͡ʃika neɡɾa/from spelling rules
The English phrase "black girl" is translated into Spanish as chica negra.
chica negra is used to describe a girl or young woman with dark skin. While this is a literal description of skin color, in many Spanish-speaking contexts, it is a standard descriptive phrase rather than inherently pejorative, though tone of voice remains critical.
Which one should you use?
If the subject is a very young child rather than a teenager or young woman, niña negra is a more precise term.
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective negra must agree in gender with the feminine noun chica.
How do you pronounce it?
/tʃika neɡɾa/
Did you know?
- The word negro is so central to the language that the phrase está en negro is used to describe someone working 'off the books' without a legal contract.
- While chica negra is a literal description, the word negra can even be used as a nickname for a girl who has very light skin if there is a close emotional bond.
- In certain Spanish-speaking countries, calling a girl negrita using the diminutive suffix does not always mean she is small, but instead signals intimacy or fondness.
Examples in context
- Esa chica negra es muy inteligente.That black girl is very intelligent.
- Vi a una chica negra en el parque.I saw a black girl in the park.
- La chica negra juega al baloncesto muy bien.The black girl plays basketball very well.
Example conversation
Elena and Mateo are talking about a new student in their class.
- Elena¿Conoces a la chica negra nueva?Do you know the new black girl?
- MateoSí, ella es de la clase de arte.Yes, she is in the art class.
- ElenaParece una chica muy simpática.She seems like a very nice girl.
- MateoEs verdad, es muy amable.That is true, she is very kind.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
