ritmo
/ˈridmo/
The English word 'pace' can be translated into Spanish as ritmo.
ritmo refers to the speed or pace of an action or movement. A common way to express doing something at one's own speed or according to one's own schedule is to use the phrase a mi propio ritmo.
Meaning: speed (noun)
Which one should you use?
In English, there is a distinction between 'pace' (the speed of movement) and 'rhythm' (the pattern of sound or movement). In Spanish, ritmo is often used to cover both of these concepts.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of ritmo is ritmos.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈridmo/
Did you know?
- In music and dance contexts, ritmo can describe not just the tempo but the specific 'soul' or 'swing' of a genre. A person who has ritmo is considered naturally coordinated or charismatic in their movements.
- In Spanish, the word ritmo is deeply tied to the concept of 'flow'. This is because it originates from the Greek word rhéō, meaning 'to flow'.
- When talking about a 'change of pace' in a non-physical sense, such as a change in lifestyle, Spanish speakers often use ritmo de vida. This phrase treats the speed of one's existence as a singular, measurable pulse.
Examples in context
- Quiero ir a mi propio ritmo.I want to go at my own pace.This sentence is useful for expressing the desire to go at your own pace using ritmo.Tatoeba #9993727 by manufrutos, translation #9993368 by DJ_Saidez
- Tom necesita un cambio de ritmo.Tom needs a change of pace.This sentence is useful for describing a need for a change of pace using ritmo.Tatoeba #6853490 by albrusgher, translation #1164403 by CK
- Hagámoslo a nuestro propio ritmo, sin apresurarnos.Let's do it at our own pace without hurrying.This sentence is useful for suggesting doing something at a specific pace without hurrying using ritmo.Tatoeba #2039312 by Shishir, translation #896035 by Scott
- 7 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lucía and Mateo are jogging in a park.
- LucíaMateo, ¿puedes mantener este ritmo?Mateo, can you keep up this pace?
- MateoSí, Lucía, es un ritmo perfecto.Yes, Lucía, it is a perfect pace.
- LucíaMe gusta correr a este ritmo.I like running at this pace.
- MateoYo también, no es muy rápido.Me too, it is not very fast.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry ritmo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ritmo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
