cuerdo
/ˈkweɾdo/
The English phrase sane can be translated into Spanish as cuerdo. If unsure, use cuerdo. Wiktionary also lists estar en su acuerdo.
Meaning: mentally healthy (adj)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| cuerdo | /ˈkweɾdo/ | |
| estar en su acuerdo | /estaɾ en su akweɾdo/ (from spelling rules) | verb |
The adjective is used to describe someone who is mentally healthy.
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective cuerdo has a feminine form, which is cuerda. Note that cuerdo is the direct antonym of the adjective loco.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈkweɾdo/
Did you know?
- While cuerdo means 'sane', the feminine form cuerda is also the common word for 'rope'.
- The word cuerdo comes from the Latin word for 'heart'. In ancient times, the heart was believed to be the seat of reason and sanity.
- Because cuerdo is so formal, Spanish speakers often use the phrase estar bien de la cabeza to say someone is sane in a relaxed setting.
Examples in context
- Soy el último hombre cuerdo en el mundo.I'm the last sane man in the world.Tatoeba #1801747 by marcelostockle, translation #1801795 by marcelostockle
- En un mundo de locos, sólo los locos están cuerdos.In a mad world only the mad are sane.Tatoeba #741470 by Shishir, translation #741469 by saeb
- Es importante mantenernos cuerdos en situaciones difíciles.It is important to stay sane in difficult situations.
- Debemos asegurarnos de mantener una mente sana en el trabajo.We must ensure to maintain a sane mind at work.
- Después de un largo día de trabajo, necesito un rato para relajarme y volver a estar en mis cabales.After a long day of work, I need some time to relax and get back to being sane.
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing their stressful jobs.
- MaríaMi jefe no es un hombre cuerdo.My boss is not a sane man.
- JavierLo siento mucho, María.I am very sorry, María.
- MaríaGracias, Javier, necesito un descanso.Thanks, Javier, I need a break.
- JavierTe entiendo perfectamente.I understand you perfectly.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “sane” translations and entries cuerdo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries acuerdo, cuerdo, en, estar, su, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
