igual
/iˈɡwal/
The Spanish phrase igual can be translated as 'equal', 'the same' or 'maybe' depending on the context.
In a general sense, igual is used to describe things that are equal or the same. In certain regions, particularly in Spain and parts of Latin America, it is also used colloquially to mean 'maybe'.
Which one should you use?
While igual can mean 'equal' in a general sense, if you are referring to mathematical equality, it is more precise to use igualdad (equality) or igual a (equal to).
Is it said differently in some regions?
The use of igual to mean 'maybe' is common in Spain and parts of Latin America.
How does it change in a sentence?
When you use igual to make a comparison meaning 'the same as', it is typically followed by the conjunction que, forming the phrase igual que.
How do you pronounce it?
/iˈɡwal/
Did you know?
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, saying me da igual to express indifference can be perceived as dismissive or rude depending on the tone, whereas 'I don't mind' in English is often seen as polite.
- In some Latin American countries, igual is used as a filler word or a way to concede a point in an argument, similar to saying 'even so' or 'anyway' in English.
- The Spanish word igual is a cognate of the English word 'equal', meaning they share a common ancestor in the Latin word aequālis.
Examples in context
- Nuestros derechos deben ser tratados de la misma manera.Our rights should be treated equally.
- Los empleados recibirán beneficios de igual forma.Employees will receive benefits equally.
- Ambos países deben ser considerados al mismo nivel.Both countries should be considered on an equal footing.
- ¡Igualmente!Likewise!
- Tú y yo pensamos de la misma forma.You and I think the same way.
- Es igual que el mío.It is the same as mine.
- Para mí es igual.It is all the same to me.
- No me importa, me da igual.I don't care, it's all the same to me.
- Da igual si llegamos tarde.It doesn't matter if we arrive late.
Example conversation
Sofía and Alejandro are deciding what to eat for dinner.
- Sofía¿Quieres comer pizza o pasta?Do you want to eat pizza or pasta?
- AlejandroMe da igual, Sofía.It's all the same to me, Sofía.
- SofíaEstá bien, pidamos una pizza.Fine, let's order a pizza.
- AlejandroPerfecto, me parece bien.Perfect, sounds good to me.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry igual, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries igual, CC BY-SA 4.0.
