bonito
standard
In Puerto Rico bonito and lindo both mean pretty, and for a woman they become bonita and linda. In casual talk people say chulo for something cute or nice.
Meaning: pleasing to look at (adjective)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | Note |
|---|---|
| bonito | standard |
| Lindo | everyday |
| Chulo | casual, Puerto Rico |
You can say Qué bonita casa or Qué linda estás. Chulo fits objects, places, babies and outfits, as in Qué chulo ese vestido.
Which one should you use?
Hermoso means beautiful and sounds stronger. Guapo is used for a good looking person.
What mistakes should you avoid?
In Spain chulo can mean cocky, and in some places it is a rude word, so use it with care outside the Caribbean.
Did you know?
- The adjective changes ending with gender and number: bonito, bonita, bonitos, bonitas.
Examples in context
- Qué bonita está la playa hoy.How pretty the beach is today.
- Tu vestido es muy lindo.Your dress is very pretty.
- Qué chulo ese carro.What a nice car.
Example conversation
Two friends, Paula and Inés, compliment each other before a wedding in Ponce.
- PaulaInés, qué linda estás con ese vestido.Inés, you look so pretty in that dress.
- InésGracias, tú también estás bien bonita.Thanks, you look really pretty too.
- PaulaQué chulo el peinado.What a nice hairstyle.
