idioma
/iˈdjoma/masculine
The English word 'language' can be translated into Spanish as idioma or lengua.
Meaning: body of words used as a form of communication (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| idioma | /iˈdjoma/ | masculine |
| lengua | /ˈlenɡwa/ | feminine |
Both terms refer to a body of words used for communication, but they are used in different contexts.
Which one should you use?
idioma is the standard term used when referring to a specific system of communication, such as Spanish or English. While lengua can also mean 'language' in a linguistic context, its primary meaning is the physical organ (the tongue) in the mouth.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural of the masculine idioma is idiomas, and the plural of the feminine lengua is lenguas.
How do you pronounce it?
/iˈdjoma/
What mistakes should you avoid?
Be careful when using lengua to mean 'language' in casual settings, as it may be misinterpreted as referring to the physical tongue.
Did you know?
- Spanish has a specific term, lenguaje, which is distinct from idioma and lengua and refers to the general capacity for communication, including sign language or programming languages.
- In some historical contexts, lengua was used to refer to a translator or interpreter, essentially calling the person a 'tongue'.
- The word idioma comes from a Greek word meaning 'peculiarity', implying that a language is a unique trait belonging to a specific group.
Examples in context
- Me gusta mi idioma.I like my language.This sentence uses idioma to express a preference for one's own language.Tatoeba #1515258 by marcelostockle, translation #1514918 by gleki
- Me gusta tu lengua.I like your language.This sentence uses lengua to express a preference for someone else's language.Tatoeba #9931318 by Shishir, translation #9930198 by lucasmg123
- No hablo tu idioma.I don't speak your language.This sentence uses idioma to state an inability to speak someone else's language.Tatoeba #10261566 by Shishir, translation #2276207 by CK
- El inglés es un idioma muy útil para los negocios internacionales.English is a very useful language for international business.
- La lengua española es hablada en muchos países.The Spanish language is spoken in many countries.
- 1011 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Daniel and Lucía are talking about their studies.
- DanielQué idioma estás estudiando ahora, Lucía?What language are you studying now, Lucía?
- LucíaEstoy estudiando el idioma francés.I am studying the French language.
- DanielEs un idioma muy bonito.It is a very beautiful language.
- LucíaSí, pero es difícil de aprender.Yes, but it is difficult to learn.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “language” translations and entries idioma, lengua, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries idioma, lengua, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
