Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| reparto | /reˈpaɾto/ | masculine |
| elenco | /eˈlenko/ | masculine |
Both terms are used to describe the group of actors performing together in a production.
What does it mean word for word?
The word reparto is derived from the verb repartir (to distribute or divide), and literally refers to the distribution of roles among actors.
Which one should you use?
While both mean 'cast', reparto is more common in general contexts such as television or theater. In contrast, elenco often carries a more formal or professional connotation regarding the ensemble and is frequently used in technical discussions of the performing arts.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico, elenco is a commonly used term for 'cast'.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
Both reparto and elenco are masculine singular nouns. They are used with masculine articles, such as el.
How do you pronounce it?
/reˈpaɾto/
Did you know?
- The word elenco descends from the Ancient Greek word élenkhos, which refers to a method of logical cross-examination.
- Outside of the theater, reparto is the everyday word used for the 'delivery' or 'distribution' of mail and packages.
- While reparto and elenco both mean 'cast', reparto can specifically refer to the administrative act of assigning roles to actors.
Examples in context
- Me pregunto qué pasó con el reparto tras la finalización de la serie.I wonder what happened to the cast after the series ended.This sentence is useful for seeing how to use the word reparto when discussing the actors in a series.Tatoeba #9143418 by rafaeldejesus8199, translation #9143419 by rafaeldejesus8199
- ¿Quién forma parte del elenco de la obra?Who is part of the cast of the play?
- El reparto de la película está lleno de talentoThe cast of the movie is full of talent
- ¿Sabes quiénes son los actores de la serie?Do you know who the actors in the series are?
- El director está buscando nuevos talentos para el elenco de la obra de teatro.The director is looking for new talents for the theater cast.
- El reparto de la película incluye a reconocidos actores internacionales.The cast of the movie includes renowned international actors.
- Me invitaron a formar parte del equipo de actores de una obra de teatro.I was invited to be part of the cast of a theater play.
- El reparto de la película es excelente.The cast of the movie is excellent.
- Necesitamos un reparto muy profesional para este musical.We need a very professional cast for this musical.
Example conversation
Daniel and Lucía are discussing a new theater production.
- Daniel¿Ya conoces al reparto de la obra?Do you already know the cast of the play?
- LucíaNo, Lucía aún no ha visto la lista.No, Lucía hasn't seen the list yet.
- DanielDicen que el reparto es muy talentoso.They say the cast is very talented.
- LucíaTengo muchas ganas de verlos actuar.I really want to see them act.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “cast” translations and entries reparto, elenco, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries elenco, reparto, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.