adecuado
/adeˈkwado/
The English word "proper" is translated into Spanish as adecuado.
Adecuado is used to describe something that is following established standards of behavior or manners.
Meaning: following the established standards of behavior or manners (adj)
Which one should you use?
While adecuado means "proper" in the sense of being appropriate or suitable for a situation, correcto is used when you mean "correct" in the sense of being right or accurate.
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective must agree in gender with the noun it modifies, so use the feminine form adecuada for feminine nouns. The adjective must agree in number with the noun, so use adecuados for masculine plural nouns and adecuadas for feminine plural nouns.
How do you pronounce it?
/adeˈkwado/
Did you know?
- While adecuado refers to something being suitable, if you want to say a person has 'proper' manners in a formal sense, you would more likely use educado.
- While adecuado means 'proper', Spanish has the word estirado, which literally means 'stretched'. It is used to describe a person who is so 'proper' or formal that they come across as stiff and arrogant.
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, the 'proper' way to greet someone involves dos besos (two kisses) on the cheeks, though in Spain this is the norm while in many Latin American countries a single kiss or a handshake is more 'adecuado'.
Examples in context
- Tomó los pasos adecuados para hacerse cargo de la situación.He took the proper steps to meet the situation.This sentence shows how to use adecuado to describe steps taken for a situation.Tatoeba #1940259 by teskmon, translation #1620589 by JimBreen
- Ese no es un tema adecuado para una charla de mesa.That is not a proper subject to bring up in conversation at the dinner table.This sentence illustrates using adecuado to describe a suitable topic for conversation.Tatoeba #1722469 by marcelostockle, translation #42308 by CM
- Una vez un hombre le preguntó a Diógenes cuál era el momento adecuado para la cena, y él le respondió: "Si usted es un hombre rico, cuando le apetezca, y si usted es un pobre hombre, cuando pueda."A man once asked Diogenes what was the proper time for supper, and he made answer, "If you are a rich man, whenever you please, and if you are a poor man, whenever you can."This sentence demonstrates using adecuado to describe an appropriate time for a meal.Tatoeba #1173993 by nancy, translation #907431 by Scott
- Es importante utilizar el vocabulario correcto para expresarse adecuadamente.It is important to use the proper vocabulary to express yourself appropriately.
- Siempre utiliza el lenguaje adecuado en una conversación informal.Always use the proper language in an informal conversation.
- Por favor, utiliza la gramática correcta en tus ensayos.Please use the proper grammar in your essays.
- Elige la respuesta apropiada para cada pregunta.Choose the proper answer for each question.
- Asegúrate de dar un saludo adecuado en situaciones formales.Make sure to give a proper greeting in formal situations.
- Quisiera acceso adecuado a la información.I would like proper access to the information.
Example conversation
Daniel and María are discussing how to behave at a formal gala.
- Daniel¿Sabes qué ropa es la más adecuada para la gala?Do you know what clothing is the most proper for the gala?
- MaríaCreo que un vestido elegante es lo más adecuado.I think an elegant dress is the most proper.
- DanielTienes razón, debemos mantener un comportamiento adecuado.You are right, we must maintain proper behavior.
- MaríaAsí es, la etiqueta es muy importante allí.That's right, etiquette is very important there.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry adecuado, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
