único en su especie
/uniko en su espeθje/from spelling rules
The English phrase "one of a kind" can be translated into Spanish as único en su especie.
This phrase is used to describe something that is unparalleled or has no equal, often in a biological or highly specific context.
Meaning: unique specimen (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase único en su especie literally translates to "unique in its species".
How does it change in a sentence?
If the 'one of a kind' specimen being referred to is feminine, the adjective 'único' must change to única en su especie.
Did you know?
- While único en su especie is used for biological rarity, Spanish speakers often use the phrase único en su género to describe a person with a one-of-a-kind personality or talent.
- Calling someone único can be a compliment, but it is also frequently used with irony to suggest that a person is 'uniquely' strange or eccentric.
- The word especie shares its root with the English word 'spectacle' and the Latin 'specere', meaning 'to look at'. This is because a 'species' was originally defined by its outward appearance.
Examples in context
- Este pintor tiene un estilo único.This painter has a unique style.
- El talento de esa cantante es inigualable.The talent of that singer is unmatched.
- Es una oportunidad excepcional.It's an exceptional opportunity.
- Ese carro es una joya.That car is a gem / one of a kind.
- Este ejemplar es único en su especie.This specimen is one of a kind.
- Ese insecto parece ser único en su especie.That insect seems to be one of a kind.
- El científico encontró un animal único en su especie.The scientist found an animal that is one of a kind.
Example conversation
Sofía and Alejandro are looking at a sculpture in a gallery.
- SofíaMira esta pieza, Alejandro.Look at this piece, Alejandro.
- AlejandroEs increíble, parece único en su especie.It's incredible, it seems one of a kind.
- SofíaSí, el artista solo hizo uno.Yes, the artist only made one.
- AlejandroEs una obra maestra.It is a masterpiece.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries en, especie, su, único, CC BY-SA 4.0.
