Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| modelo | /moˈdelo/ | masculine |
| maqueta | /maˈketa/ | feminine |
The term for 'model' depends on whether you are referring to a person, a prototype or a physical miniature. Use modelo when talking about a fashion model or a specific version of a product. Use maqueta when referring to a physical scale model, such as an architectural miniature or a hobbyist's construction of a building, landscape or vehicle. You can use the related verb modelar to say 'be a model' and the adjectives ejemplar or modélico to describe something that is 'worthy of being a model'.
Which one should you use?
Use modelo for general contexts, such as a person who models clothes or a prototype of a product. In contrast, use maqueta specifically for a physical scale model used for display, such as an architectural model or a miniature representation of a vehicle.
Related words
How do you pronounce it?
/moˈdelo/
When do people say it?
In the fashion industry, you might encounter the term pasarela for 'runway', sesión de fotos for 'photo shoot' and desfile de moda for 'fashion show'. An informal way to refer to a model who frequently appears on magazine covers is Chico(a) de portada.
Did you know?
- In the music industry, a maqueta is not a physical miniature but a 'demo tape' or a rough recording used to showcase a song to a producer.
- The word maqueta comes from the Italian word macchietta, which originally referred to a small sketch or a caricature.
- A modelo can also refer to a specific brand of beer in Mexico, which is one of the most famous exports from that country.
Examples in context
- Me gusta este modelo.I like this model.This sentence shows how to express liking a specific model.Tatoeba #2267033 by cueyayotl, translation #2267032 by _undertoad
- Soy actriz, no modelo.I'm an actress, not a model.This sentence clarifies the distinction between being an actress and a model.Tatoeba #6147133 by Shishir, translation #5644479 by Hybrid
- Mary podría ser modelo.Mary could be a model.This sentence uses the word to describe a person's potential profession.Tatoeba #8088966 by Seael, translation #2646555 by CK
- Ella es una modelo muy talentosa.She is a very talented model.
- Ese chico de portada es un modelo muy solicitado.That cover boy is a highly sought-after model.
- La figura de esa chica es perfecta para ser modelo.That girl's figure is perfect for being a model.
- 43 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Daniel and Elena are looking at a hobby shop display.
- ElenaMira ese modelo de coche, Daniel.Look at that model car, Daniel.
- DanielEs impresionante, es muy pequeño.It is impressive, it is very small.
- Elena¿Crees que sea un buen modelo?Do you think it is a good model?
- DanielSí, parece de gran calidad.Yes, it looks high quality.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “model” translations and entries modelo, maqueta, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries maqueta, modelo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
