cita
/ˈθita/
The Spanish word cita means appointment.
cita is used to refer to a professional appointment, such as with a doctor or a lawyer.
Which one should you use?
While cita can mean an appointment, a business meeting is more commonly referred to as reunión.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈθita/
Did you know?
- The word cita can also refer to a 'quotation' or a 'citation' in a text. This shows the linguistic link between 'calling' someone to a meeting and 'calling' upon a source for evidence.
- While cita is used for professional appointments, the word can also mean a 'date' in a romantic context. A man and a woman might go on a cita just as they would in English.
- The verb from which cita derives, citar, can also mean to 'summon' someone to appear in a legal setting. This connects the idea of a simple appointment to a formal legal summons.
Examples in context
- Tengo una cita con AnaI have a date with Ana
- ¡Qué bien que tengo una cita con Pedro!How exciting, I have a date with Pedro!
- Tengo una cita con el dentista.I have an appointment with the dentist.
- ¿A qué hora es la cita?What time is the appointment?
- La cita es en la oficina central.The appointment is at the main office.
Example conversation
Daniel and Lucía are discussing their plans for the weekend.
- DanielLucía, ¿tienes tiempo para una cita el sábado?Lucía, do you have time for a date on Saturday?
- LucíaSí, me encantaría salir contigo.Yes, I would love to go out with you.
- DanielPerfecto, yo reservo la mesa en el restaurante.Perfect, I will reserve the table at the restaurant.
- LucíaGracias, Daniel. Nos vemos el sábado.Thanks, Daniel. See you Saturday.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry cita, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
