alma gemela
/ˌalma xeˈmela/
The English phrase 'kindred spirit' can be translated into Spanish as alma gemela.
In Spanish, this phrase is used to describe someone who shares the same feelings or attitudes as oneself.
Meaning: someone with the same feelings or attitudes as oneself (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase alma gemela literally translates to 'twin soul'.
Which one should you use?
While alma gemela is the most common translation for 'kindred spirit', it often carries a stronger romantic connotation of 'soulmate' than the English phrase does. For a more literal and precise way to express a kindred spirit, specifically someone with similar tastes or temperaments without the romantic weight, you can use espíritu afín.
How does it change in a sentence?
To express the plural 'kindred spirits', both the noun and the adjective must be pluralized to almas gemelas.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˌalma xeˈmela/
Did you know?
- In Spanish, the word gemelo can refer to a twin or to a 'cufflink' used in formal shirts. This is because cufflinks are identical pairs that mirror each other.
- The word alma shares the same ancient Proto-Indo-European root as the English word 'animal'. Both words originally related to the concept of 'breath' or 'life'.
- In some Spanish-speaking regions, using alma gemela to describe a platonic friend might actually be perceived as an accidental romantic confession.
Examples in context
- Tuvimos una conexión instantánea, como si fuéramos almas gemelas.We had an instant connection, as if we were kindred spirits.
- Ella es mi alma gemela, siempre estamos pensando en lo mismo.She's my kindred spirit, we are always thinking the same thing.
- Siento que eres mi alma gemela.I feel like you are my kindred spirit.
- Encontré a mi alma gemela en el grupo.I found my kindred spirit in the group.
Example conversation
Elena and Mateo are discussing their shared love for old books.
- ElenaMe encanta leer poesía clásica, ¿y a ti?I love reading classic poetry, how about you?
- MateoEs mi actividad favorita en el mundo.It is my favorite activity in the world.
- Elena¡Mateo, creo que eres mi alma gemela!Mateo, I think you are my kindred spirit!
- MateoYo también pienso lo mismo, Elena.I think the same thing, Elena.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry alma gemela, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries alma, gemela, CC BY-SA 4.0.
