vida
/ˈbida/feminine
The English word "life" is translated into Spanish as vida.
vida is the most common and general term used to refer to the state of being alive.
Meaning: the state of being alive (noun)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Costa Rican culture, the phrase Pura Vida is frequently used. It expresses a relaxed and joyful view of life, and can also be used as a way to say hello, goodbye or to express gratitude.
How does it change in a sentence?
vida is a feminine noun. Therefore, when using a definite article, you must use the feminine la instead of the masculine el to say "the life" (la vida). The plural form of the word is vidas.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈbida/
When do people say it?
The phrase Pura Vida is a popular expression in Costa Rica used to convey a positive, easygoing attitude toward life or to function as a versatile greeting, farewell or expression of thanks.
Did you know?
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, calling someone mi vida is a common term of endearment, similar to saying 'my darling' or 'my life' in English.
- The word vida comes from the Latin vīta, which is a direct ancestor of the English word 'vital' and 'vitality'.
- The expression de mala vida is used to describe a person or a lifestyle that is coarse, dishonest, or lacking in moral character.
Examples in context
- La vida es así.Such is life.This sentence shows how to use vida when expressing that life is simply a certain way.Tatoeba #639349 by Shishir, translation #638732 by shekitten
- Esa es la vida.That's life.This sentence demonstrates a common way to say "That's life" using vida.Tatoeba #1306038 by marcelostockle, translation #515472 by CK
- Así es la vida.So goes life!This sentence uses vida to express the sentiment "So goes life!"Tatoeba #2017007 by marcelostockle, translation #1357076 by sacredceltic
- La vida es un regalo precioso.Life is a precious gift.
- Enseñaremos a los niños cómo apreciar la vida.We will teach children to appreciate life.
- Es importante reflexionar sobre nuestra existencia.It is important to reflect on our existence.
- La vidorra que llevas me da envidia.I envy the great life you have.
- ¡Hola! ¿Cómo estás? – ¡Pura vida!Hi! How are you? – Pura vida!
- No hay problema, ¡Pura vida!No problem, Pura vida!
- ¡Disfruten la vida!Enjoy life!
- 1681 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Elena and Mateo are discussing their future goals.
- ElenaQuiero viajar mucho en mi vida.I want to travel a lot in my life.
- MateoEs un buen plan para tu vida, Elena.It is a good plan for your life, Elena.
- ElenaSí, quiero disfrutar la vida al máximo.Yes, I want to enjoy life to the fullest.
- MateoYo también quiero hacer eso, Elena.I want to do that too, Elena.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “life” translations and entries vida, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries vida, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
