What does it mean word for word?
Literally, the phrase is structured as profesor (teacher) + de (of) + español (Spanish).
Which one should you use?
While profesor de español is the standard term for a professional teacher, maestro de español is often used for primary school teachers or in a more traditional or artistic sense.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, it is common to say profe de castellano when speaking informally. In some Latin American countries, the term docente de español is used to refer to a Spanish teacher.
How does it change in a sentence?
To indicate a female teacher, the noun profesor changes to profesora. For plural forms, profesores de español refers to a group of Spanish teachers that is masculine or mixed, while profesoras de español is used for a group of only female Spanish teachers.
How do you pronounce it?
/pɾofesoɾ de espaɲol/
Did you know?
- The word español likely comes from a Punic word meaning 'coast of hyraxes', which are small mammals similar to rabbits.
Examples in context
- ¿Dónde está el profesor de español?Where is the Spanish teacher?
- La profesora de español es muy talentosa.The Spanish teacher is very talented.
- Mi profe de español es muy simpático.My Spanish teacher is very friendly.
- El maestro de español nos enseña mucho.The Spanish teacher teaches us a lot.
- ¡Hola! ¿Dónde está la profe de castellano?Hi! Where is the Spanish teacher?
- Mi hermano es profesor de español.My brother is a Spanish teacher.
- Busco un profesor de español para mis hijos.I am looking for a Spanish teacher for my children.
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about their job search at a cafe.
- Lucía¿Conoces a un buen profesor de español?Do you know a good Spanish teacher?
- MateoSí, mi primo es profesor de español.Yes, my cousin is a Spanish teacher.
- Lucía¡Qué bien! ¿Él vive aquí en la ciudad?That's great! Does he live here in the city?
- MateoNo, pero puede dar clases por internet.No, but he can give lessons online.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries de, español, profesor, CC BY-SA 4.0.
