compañero de clase
/kompaɲeɾo de klase/from spelling rules
The English phrase class member is translated into Spanish as compañero de clase.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of compañero (companion/partner) and de clase (of class).
Which one should you use?
While compañero de clase specifically refers to a classmate, the word compañero alone can mean a colleague, partner or roommate depending on context.
How does it change in a sentence?
To specify that the classmate is female, change the masculine compañero to the feminine compañera. The plural form is created by changing compañero to compañeros. The phrase de clase remains unchanged.
Did you know?
- In many Spanish-speaking countries, calling someone compañero without specifying 'of class' can imply they are a political comrade or a fellow member of a labor union.
- The word compañero shares a root with 'company', as both come from the idea of people sharing bread together. In its historical sense, a 'companion' was literally a 'bread-sharer'.
- In some Latin American countries, students might use the slang term compa as a shortened version of compañero to show friendship.
Examples in context
- Soy compañera de clase de Pedro.I am Pedro's classmate.
Example conversation
María and Mateo are talking about a new student.
- María¿Quién es ese chico, Mateo?Who is that boy, Mateo?
- MateoEs un nuevo compañero de clase.He is a new classmate.
- MaríaParece muy simpático.He seems very nice.
- MateoSí, es muy amable.Yes, he is very kind.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries clase, compañero, de, CC BY-SA 4.0.
