algo es genial
/alɡo es xenjal/from spelling rules
The English phrase 'something is awesome' is translated into Spanish as algo es genial.
This phrase is used to say that something is very good or impressive. You can also substitute genial with increíble (something is incredible) to express a similar sense of awe.
Is it said differently in some regions?
Several regional variations exist: ¡Está chido! is an informal way to say 'It's cool' or 'It's awesome' primarily used in Mexico, while ¡Está bacano! is frequently used in Colombia to mean 'It's awesome'. In some Latin American countries, you may also hear the colloquialism ¡Está de pelos! to mean 'It's awesome'.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase algo es genial follows the standard Spanish subject-verb-adjective order.
Did you know?
- The phrase Está de pelos! literally translates to 'It is of hairs!', which sounds strange to an English speaker describing something good.
- While genial means 'awesome' in Spanish, its English cognate 'genial' describes someone who is friendly and cheerful.
- The word genial comes from the Latin word for 'guardian spirit' and was originally related to weddings and festivities.
Example conversation
Daniel and María are talking about a new video game.
- DanielMira este juego, ¡algo es genial!Look at this game, something is awesome!
- MaríaTienes razón, los gráficos son increíbles.You are right, the graphics are incredible.
- DanielCreo que este nivel es genial.I think this level is awesome.
- María¡Sí! Quiero jugar más.Yes! I want to play more.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries algo, es, genial, CC BY-SA 4.0.
