pareja
/paˈɾexa/feminine
The English phrase 'couple' can be translated into Spanish as pareja.
pareja is used to refer to both the unit (the couple) and the individuals within the relationship (one's partner).
Meaning: two partners (noun)
Which one should you use?
While pareja can mean 'a couple' (two people), it is also the standard word for a single 'partner' in a romantic relationship. When both individuals in the couple are deeply in love, you can use the word enamorados.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of pareja is parejas.
How do you pronounce it?
/paˈɾexa/
Did you know?
- The word pareja is etymologically a diminutive, originating from the Late Latin pāricula, which essentially means 'a little equal' or 'a little peer'.
- Beyond romantic partners, pareja is the standard term for a pair of tennis or dance partners.
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, if you are introduced as part of a pareja, it implies a formal recognition of your relationship status, even if you are not married.
Examples in context
- Hay una pareja aquí.There's a couple here.This sentence shows how to identify a pareja in a location.Tatoeba #1547964 by marcelostockle, translation #880595 by CM
- No somos una pareja.We're not a couple.This sentence is used to deny being a pareja.Tatoeba #3523372 by marcelostockle, translation #2548489 by CK
- Son una linda pareja.You are a beautiful couple.This sentence is used to compliment a pareja.Tatoeba #5130866 by don_ramon, translation #5130751 by Karok
- Durante la boda, la pareja bailó con elegancia.During the wedding, the couple danced gracefully.
- El matrimonio celebró su aniversario de bodas en un restaurante elegante.The couple celebrated their wedding anniversary at a fancy restaurant.
- Los novios se conocieron en la universidad.The couple met in college.
- La parejita salió a pasear por el parque.The couple went for a walk in the park.
- Los enamorados disfrutaron de unas vacaciones románticas en la playa.The couple enjoyed a romantic vacation at the beach.
- 71 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Daniel and Elena are talking about a wedding invitation.
- DanielTengo una invitación para una pareja.I have an invitation for a couple.
- Elena¿Tú y yo somos esa pareja?Are you and I that couple?
- DanielSí, Elena, somos la pareja ideal.Yes, Elena, we are the ideal couple.
- ElenaQué bueno, entonces vamos juntos.That's great, then we'll go together.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “couple” translations and entries pareja, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries pareja, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
