cielo
neutral
Heaven is cielo in Mexico. The same word also means sky, so context shows which one is meant. Paraíso and gloria are other words used in religious language.
Meaning: religious paradise (noun)
Ways to say it
| Mexican | Note |
|---|---|
| cielo | neutral |
| paraíso | neutral |
| gloria | religious |
People say ir al cielo to go to heaven and Dios lo tenga en su gloria about someone who has died.
Which one should you use?
Cielo is used both for the sky and for heaven. Paraíso is also used playfully for a wonderful place.
When do people say it?
Mexican Spanish also uses cielo as a pet name, like mi cielo for a loved one.
Did you know?
- The Spanish word cielo is the same for sky and heaven.
Examples in context
- Mi abuela está en el cielo.My grandmother is in heaven.
- Este lugar es un paraíso.This place is a paradise.
- Dios la tenga en su gloria.May God keep her in glory.
Example conversation
Pilar answers her little son Mateo's question at home in Mexico City.
- MateoMamá, ¿dónde está el abuelo?Mom, where is grandpa?
- PilarEn el cielo, mi vida.In heaven, my dear.
- MateoEntonces nos ve desde ahí.Then he watches us from there.
