modismo
/moˈdismo/masculine
The Spanish word for idiom is modismo. Wiktionary also lists idiotismo and idiomatismo.
Meaning: idiomatic expression (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| modismo | /moˈdismo/ | masculine |
| idiotismo | /idjoˈtismo/ | masculine |
| idiomatismo | /idjomatismo/ (from spelling rules) | masculine |
The term used to translate idiom in Spanish is modismo, which specifically refers to an idiomatic expression. While the word idioma can be translated as idiom, it is more commonly used to refer to a language as a whole.
Which one should you use?
Modismo is the common word for an idiom. In contrast, idiotismo is a technical linguistic term used in formal academic contexts.
How does it change in a sentence?
All provided forms are masculine nouns.
How do you pronounce it?
/moˈdismo/
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid using idiotismo in casual conversation, as it sounds overly technical and can be confused with words related to 'idiot' due to the shared root.
When do people say it?
An example of an idiom in Spanish is costar un ojo de la cara, which means that something is very expensive.
Did you know?
- Spanish speakers often distinguish between a modismo and a refrán. While a modismo is a phrase like 'cost an arm and a leg', a refrán is a proverb that offers moral advice.
- The term idiotismo actually traces its roots back to the Greek word for a private person or a commoner, rather than the modern concept of being unintelligent.
- In many Spanish-speaking regions, a person might use the word frase hecha to describe an idiom, which literally translates to 'made phrase'.
Examples in context
- Es un modismo muy común en mi barrio.It's a very common idiom in my neighborhood.This sentence is useful for showing how to describe a common modismo in a specific area.Tatoeba #9049820 by rafaeldejesus8199, translation #9049822 by rafaeldejesus8199
- No entiendo este modismo.I don't understand this idiom.
- Ese modismo es muy gracioso.That idiom is very funny.
Example conversation
A student asks a teacher about a local phrase.
- María¿Qué significa este modismo?What does this idiom mean?
- DanielEs una expresión muy local, María.It is a very local expression, María.
- MaríaGracias por la explicación.Thank you for the explanation.
- DanielDe nada, cualquier cosa para ayudarte.You're welcome, anything to help you.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “idiom” translations and entries modismo, idiotismo, idiomatismo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries idiotismo, modismo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
