un beso
/un beso/from spelling rules
The English phrase "one kiss" is translated into Spanish as un beso.
un beso refers to a single act of pressing one's lips against another person or object. Depending on the context, it can mean both "one kiss" and "a kiss". In informal written communication, such as texts or emails, it is frequently used as a way to say "goodbye" or "kisses".
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the indefinite article un (one/a) and the noun beso (kiss).
Which one should you use?
While un beso is the standard way to say a kiss, you might encounter diminutive or augmentative forms. Un besito means "one little kiss", whereas un besote is used to convey a bigger or longer kiss.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico, the informal phrase un besote is used to describe a bigger or longer kiss.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase is masculine, so the article un must match the masculine noun beso.
How do you pronounce it?
/un beso/
When do people say it?
In Latin America, the term besito volado is used to describe an "air kiss".
Did you know?
- In Spain, the custom of dos besos involves kissing both cheeks, but the order is usually right then left.
- While 'un beso' refers to a single act, the word 'beso' can also be used in the idiom beso de Judas to describe an act of betrayal.
- If you want to describe an 'air kiss' in Latin America, you might hear the phrase besito volado, which literally translates to a 'flown little kiss'.
Examples in context
- ¿Un beso o dos?One kiss or two?This sentence is useful for asking whether someone wants one kiss or two using the form un beso.Tatoeba #2690500 by marcelostockle, translation #2690321 by fekundulo
- Si me lo permite, Señor García, ¿puedo darle un beso?If you allow me, Mr. García, may I give you a kiss?
- ¡Hola, hermanita! ¡Dame un beso!Hi, little sister! Give me a kiss!
- Dame un beso.Give me one kiss.
- Solo quiero un beso.I only want one kiss.
Example conversation
A couple is saying goodbye at the door.
- María¿Me das un beso?Will you give me one kiss?
- JavierClaro que sí, María.Of course, María.
- MaríaEres muy dulce, Javier.You are very sweet, Javier.
- JavierHasta mañana.See you tomorrow.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
