primario
/pɾiˈmaɾjo/
The English word 'primary' is translated into Spanish as primario.
The adjective primario is used to describe something that is first in a group or a series. It is often used for abstract or fundamental concepts.
Meaning: first in a group or series (adj)
Which one should you use?
While primario means 'first in a series', it is often used for abstract or fundamental concepts, whereas primero is used for ordinal numbers like 'first' in a sequence (e.g., the first person in line).
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
As an adjective, primario must agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies. You should use primaria for feminine singular nouns, primarios for masculine plural nouns and primarias for feminine plural nouns. Note that primaria and primero can also function as nouns to refer to the first year of grade school.
How do you pronounce it?
/pɾiˈmaɾjo/
Did you know?
- While primario describes fundamental concepts, Spanish speakers often use the word básico to describe 'primary' needs, such as food and shelter.
- The adjective primario and the ordinal number primero are 'doublets', meaning they both descended from the same Latin root but entered the language through different linguistic paths.
- In many Spanish-speaking countries, la primaria does not just refer to the first year of school but encompasses the entire elementary education cycle.
Examples in context
- Para algunos filósofos, todo lo que existe estaría formado por los cuatro elementos primarios: fuego, aire, agua y tierra.For some philosophers, everything that exists consists of the four primary elements: fire, air, water and earth.This sentence demonstrates the use of primario when discussing the primary elements in a philosophical context.Tatoeba #1101096 by hayastan, translation #9795579 by DJ_Saidez
- El objetivo principal del proyecto es mejorar la calidad de vida de la comunidad.The primary objective of the project is to improve the quality of life of the community.
- La colaboración entre los equipos es primordial para el éxito del proyecto.Collaboration between teams is primary for the project's success.
- La función primaria de mi celular es mantenerme conectado con mis seres queridos.The main function of my phone is to keep me connected with my loved ones.
- En mi opinión, la educación primaria es fundamental para el desarrollo de los niños.In my opinion, primary education is fundamental for children's development.
- El bienestar físico y emocional es básico para una buena calidad de vida.Physical and emotional well-being is primary for a good quality of life.
- Ese es un objetivo primario de nuestra misión.That is a primary objective of our mission.
Example conversation
Alejandro and Sofía are discussing their project priorities.
- Alejandro¿Cuál es el objetivo primario del proyecto?What is the primary objective of the project?
- SofíaNuestro objetivo primario es reducir los costos.Our primary objective is to reduce costs.
- AlejandroEntiendo, Sofía. Me parece muy importante.I understand, Sofía. It seems very important to me.
- SofíaSí, es la prioridad número uno.Yes, it is the number one priority.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “primary” translations and entries primario, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries primario, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
