sin
/ˈsin/
The English phrase 'sans' translates to the Spanish preposition sin.
sin is used to mean 'without'.
Which one should you use?
Unlike the English 'without', which can be followed by a noun or a gerund, sin is typically followed by a noun or an infinitive verb.
How does it change in a sentence?
sin is a preposition meaning 'without'.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈsin/
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers may confuse the preposition sin (without) with the noun 'sin' (sin/transgression), which is spelled the same in English but is a different word in Spanish.
Did you know?
- The word sin is used in the common expression sin pies ni cabeza, which literally means 'without feet nor head'. It is the Spanish equivalent of saying something 'makes no sense' or has 'no rhyme or reason'.
- Spanish speakers often use the phrase sin vergüenza to describe someone who is 'shameless'. Rather than meaning 'without shame' in a literal sense, it is often used as a noun to call someone a 'rascal' or 'cheeky'.
- The Spanish preposition sin is a direct sibling of the English word 'sans'. Both words descended from the Latin word sine.
Examples in context
- Preferiría mi café sin azúcar, por favor.I would prefer my coffee without sugar, please.
- Este informe está carente de pruebas concluyentes.This report is devoid of conclusive evidence.
- No puedo vivir sin café.I cannot live without coffee.
- El café sin azúcar es amargo.Coffee without sugar is bitter.
- Perdón, vine sin tu invitación.Sorry, I came without your invitation.
Example conversation
Alejandro and Sofía are at a cafe.
- Alejandro¿Quieres café con leche o sin leche?Do you want coffee with milk or without milk?
- SofíaPrefiero el café sin leche, por favor.I prefer coffee without milk, please.
- AlejandroEstá bien, Sofía. ¿Quieres azúcar también?Alright, Sofía. Do you want sugar too?
- SofíaNo, gracias. Lo quiero sin nada.No, thanks. I want it without anything.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry sin, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries sin, CC BY-SA 4.0.
