varios
/ˈbaɾjos/
The English word 'several' is translated into Spanish as varios.
The word varios is used to describe a quantity that consists of a number more than two, but not very many.
Meaning: consisting of a number more than two, but not very many (det)
Which one should you use?
While varios implies a number greater than two, the word algunos is more neutral and can refer to a smaller, indefinite number.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word must agree in gender with the noun it modifies, using varias for feminine nouns.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈbaɾjos/
Did you know?
- When browsing a Spanish grocery list or receipt, you might see the heading Varios at the bottom, which functions as the equivalent to 'Miscellaneous' in an English shop.
- While varios means 'several', the related verb variar means 'to change'. This reveals a conceptual link in Spanish between having a variety of things and the act of changing.
- Because varios is derived from the Latin 'varius', it shares a deep linguistic ancestor with the English word 'variegated'.
Examples in context
- Él habla varios idiomas.He speaks several languages.This sentence is useful for showing how to use varios with languages.Tatoeba #5084813 by hayastan, translation #5083162 by CH
- Ella me dio varios libros.She gave me several books.This sentence is useful for showing how to use varios with books.Tatoeba #509879 by Shishir, translation #261026 by CK
- Debe haber varios heridos.There must be several injured.This sentence is useful for showing how to use varios with people who are injured.Tatoeba #1247885 by hayastan, translation #10140977 by DJ_Saidez
- Había varios libros en la biblioteca.There were several books in the library.
- Necesito varios documentos para completar el trámite.I need several documents to complete the procedure.
- Hay diversas opciones para elegir.There are several options to choose from.
- Quiero explorar diversos países en mi próximo viaje.I want to explore several countries on my next trip.
- Comí unos cuantos tacos en el almuerzo.I ate several tacos for lunch.
- Llegaron unos cuantos invitados a la fiesta.Several guests arrived at the party.
- Ya he visitado bastantes ciudades en España.I have already visited several cities in Spain.
- Compré bastantes regalos para mis amigos.I bought quite a few gifts for my friends.
- 118 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Mateo and María are talking about the guests at a party.
- MateoVarios amigos vendrán a la fiesta.Several friends will come to the party.
- MaríaQué bueno que vengan varios.It is good that several are coming.
- MateoSí, ya hablé con varios de ellos.Yes, I already spoke with several of them.
- MaríaEntonces será una fiesta muy divertida.Then it will be a very fun party.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry varios, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
