mi abuelo
/mi abwelo/from spelling rules
The English phrase "my grandfather" is translated into Spanish as mi abuelo.
mi abuelo is used to refer to the father of one's father or mother.
Which one should you use?
To specify a maternal grandfather, use mi abuelo materno. To specify a paternal grandfather, use mi abuelo paterno.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
While mi abuelo is the standard term, the diminutive form abuelito is a common, informal and affectionate way to say "grandpa" or "little grandfather".
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some regions, the terms tata, viejito or abue can be used to convey endearment for grandparents.
How does it change in a sentence?
When mi abuelo is the direct object of a verb, you must use the personal a before it, resulting in a mi abuelo.
Did you know?
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, the term abuelo is used as a mark of respect for any elderly man, even if there is no biological family connection.
- The word abuelo is part of a linguistic family that includes the Latin word avia, which is the root for 'grandmother' in many related Romance languages.
- The term viejito, which literally translates to 'little old man', is often used as a term of endearment for a grandfather rather than an insult.
Examples in context
- Él es mi abuelo.This is my grandfather.This sentence is useful for introducing your grandfather.Tatoeba #1901526 by hayastan, translation #1898106 by CK
- Tom es mi abuelo.Tom is my grandfather.This sentence is useful for identifying your grandfather by name.Tatoeba #1496981 by marcelostockle, translation #1495853 by CK
- Yo cuido a mi abuelo.I take care of my grandfather.This sentence is useful for describing how you care for mi abuelo.Tatoeba #2639440 by marcelostockle, translation #65097 by CK
- Mi abuelo vive en Madrid.My grandfather lives in Madrid.
- Visitaremos a mi abuelo este fin de semana.We will visit my grandfather this weekend.
- Hoy voy a visitar a mi abuelito.Today, I'm going to visit my grandfather.
- Mi abuelito siempre me cuenta historias interesantes.My grandfather always tells me interesting stories.
- 101 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about their families at a cafe.
- María¿Cómo está tu abuelo, Javier?How is your grandfather, Javier?
- JavierMi abuelo está muy bien, gracias.My grandfather is doing very well, thanks.
- MaríaQué bueno que él esté bien.That's good that he is well.
- JavierSí, él es un hombre muy fuerte.Yes, he is a very strong man.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries abuelo, mi, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
