circa
/ˈθiɾka/
The English phrase 'circa' can be translated into Spanish using circa or cerca de.
Meaning: approximately, about, around (prep)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA |
|---|---|
| circa | /ˈθiɾka/ /ˈsiɾka/ |
| cerca de | /ˈθeɾka de/ /ˈseɾka de/ |
Both circa and cerca de are used to express the concept of 'approximately', 'about' or 'around'.
Which one should you use?
While both can mean 'about', cerca de can refer to both approximate numbers and physical proximity (being 'near' or 'close to' something), whereas circa is used strictly for approximate time or dates.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈθiɾka/
Did you know?
- While cerca de means 'approximately', the word cerca on its own can mean 'a fence' or 'an enclosure'.
- Both 'circa' and cerca belong to a linguistic family connected to the word 'circle'. This is because the underlying concept in both languages is the idea of moving 'around' a central point or value.
- While circa is used in Spanish for dates, it is much more common in academic or formal writing than in everyday speech. In a casual conversation about time, a native speaker would almost certainly use cerca de or más o menos instead.
Examples in context
- La construcción de la catedral tuvo lugar aproximadamente en el siglo XIII.The construction of the cathedral took place circa the 13th century.
- Picasso nació alrededor del año 1881.Picasso was born circa the year 1881.
- Nuestro pueblo tenía más o menos unos 200 habitantes en 1900.Our town had circa 200 inhabitants in 1900.
- El cuadro fue pintado aproximadamente en el año 1650.The painting was created circa the year 1650.
Example conversation
Sofía and Daniel are looking at an old painting in a museum.
- Sofía¿Cuándo se pintó este cuadro, Daniel?When was this painting painted, Daniel?
- DanielCreo que fue circa 1850.I think it was around 1850.
- SofíaEs un estilo muy interesante.It is a very interesting style.
- DanielSí, es una obra clásica.Yes, it is a classic work.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “circa” translations and entries circa, cerca de, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries cerca, circa, de, CC BY-SA 4.0.
