compañeros
/kompaɲeɾos/from spelling rules
The English word 'peers' is translated into Spanish as compañeros.
compañeros is a general term for peers, and it is also the standard word used for colleagues or classmates. Depending on the specific relationship, you might use more precise terms: compañeros de clase refers specifically to classmates or fellow students, while socios or socias refers to peers with whom you share business interests or a partnership.
Which one should you use?
While compañeros is a versatile term for peers, colleagues or partners, you can use colegas to emphasize the professional aspect of a relationship. In a relaxed or informal context, you might refer to peers as amigos or amigas (friends).
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, it is common to use the expression colegas de trabajo to refer specifically to work colleagues.
How does it change in a sentence?
compañero is the masculine singular form for a male peer or companion, and compañera is the feminine singular form for a female peer or companion.
How do you pronounce it?
/kompaɲeɾos/
Did you know?
- The word compañero comes from the Latin cum panis, which literally means 'with bread'. It originally described people who shared the same loaf of bread.
- In a political or activist context, compañero is often used as a title of solidarity, similar to how 'comrade' is used in English.
- The word socio (partner/peer) can sometimes carry a connotation of being an 'accomplice' in a crime, depending on the tone and context.
Examples in context
- Tengo una excelente relación con mis compañeros de trabajo.I have an excellent relationship with my work colleagues.
- En la conferencia, pude conocer a muchos colegas interesantes.At the conference, I was able to meet many interesting colleagues.
- Mis compañeros de clase me ayudaron a estudiar para el examen.My classmates helped me study for the exam.
- Mis compañeros de clase son muy simpáticos.My classmates are very nice.
- Necesito la opinión de mis compañeros de trabajo.I need the opinion of my peers at work.
Example conversation
Alejandro and Sofía are discussing a new project at their office.
- AlejandroSofía, ¿qué piensan tus compañeros de mi idea?Sofía, what do your peers think of my idea?
- SofíaCreo que a tus compañeros les va a gustar.I think your peers are going to like it.
- AlejandroEspero que sea una buena propuesta para todos.I hope it is a good proposal for everyone.
- SofíaSeguro que sí, Alejandro.For sure, Alejandro.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
