superdotado
/supeɾdotado/from spelling rules
The English phrase 'gifted' is translated into Spanish as superdotado.
The term is used to describe someone who is endowed with special abilities.
Meaning: endowed with special abilities (adj)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is composed of the prefix super- (super/over) and dotado (endowed/provided), literally meaning 'super-endowed'.
Which one should you use?
While superdotado is common, the phrase con altas capacidades (with high abilities) is often used in formal educational and psychological contexts to describe giftedness.
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective must agree in gender with the person being described, so use superdotada for a female. The plural form superdotados is used for a group of males or a mixed-gender group.
How do you pronounce it?
/supeɾdotado/
Did you know?
- The Spanish word dotado can also be used as a double entendre to describe a man who is physically well-endowed.
- While superdotado refers to innate ability, Spanish speakers use precoz to describe a child who is 'gifted' by hitting milestones early.
- In Spain, the term superdotado is strictly linked to formal IQ scores, whereas in parts of Latin America, it is often used casually for anyone who is just 'smart'.
Examples in context
- Ella es una pintora talentosaShe is a talented painter.
- El niño es dotado para las matemáticasThe child is gifted in mathematics.
- Su voz prodigiosa resonó en el teatroHis prodigious voice resonated in the theater.
- Es un crack en el fútbolHe's a genius in soccer.
- Mi amiga es muy hábil con las manualidadesMy friend is very skilled at crafts.
- Eres muy talentoso tocando la guitarraYou are very talented at playing the guitar.
- Es un niño superdotado.He is a gifted boy.
- El niño es superdotado en matemáticas.The boy is gifted in mathematics.
- Los programas para niños superdotados son útiles.Programs for gifted children are useful.
Example conversation
María and Daniel are discussing their nephew's school reports.
- MaríaMira las notas de nuestro sobrino.Look at our nephew's grades.
- DanielEs increíble, creo que es superdotado.It's incredible, I think he is gifted.
- MaríaSí, aprende todo muy rápido.Yes, he learns everything very quickly.
- DanielNecesita un programa especial en la escuela.He needs a special program at school.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
