ligero
/liˈxeɾo/
The Spanish word for lightweight is ligero.
The adjective ligero is used to describe something having less than average weight.
Meaning: having less than average weight (adj)
Which one should you use?
While ligero means lightweight in terms of physical weight, it is also the standard word for 'light' in the sense of 'not heavy' or 'fast/swift'.
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective must agree in gender with the noun it modifies, so use the feminine form ligera for feminine nouns. The adjective must agree in number with the noun it modifies, so use the masculine plural form ligeros for masculine plural nouns and the feminine plural form ligeras for feminine plural nouns.
How do you pronounce it?
/liˈxeɾo/
Did you know?
- The word ligero shares its roots with the English word 'relief', as both come from the concept of making something less heavy or burdensome.
- In Spanish, a 'light' version of a food product is often labeled as light using the English word, even though ligero is the native translation.
- In Spanish, if you describe a person's behavior as ligero, it can imply they are frivolous, superficial or lacking in seriousness.
Examples in context
- Este material es muy ligeroThis material is very lightweight
- Esta mochila es bien livianaThis backpack is really lightweight
- Este abrigo pesa pocoThis coat is lightweight
- Mi nuevo teléfono es tan ligero como una plumaMy new phone is as lightweight as a feather
- El automóvil fue aligerado para mejorar su rendimientoThe car was made lightweight to improve its performance
- Este paquete es muy ligero.This package is very lightweight.
- Busco un abrigo ligero para el verano.I am looking for a lightweight coat for the summer.
- El material de la tienda es ligero.The material of the tent is lightweight.
Example conversation
Elena and Javier are shopping for camping gear.
- Elena¿Es este saco de dormir ligero?Is this sleeping bag lightweight?
- JavierSí, es muy ligero y cómodo.Yes, it is very lightweight and comfortable.
- ElenaPerfecto, Javier, me gusta mucho.Perfect, Javier, I like it a lot.
- JavierEntonces, vamos a comprarlo.Then, let's buy it.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry ligero, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ligero, CC BY-SA 4.0.
