subconsciente
/subkonsˈθjente/
The Spanish word for subconscious is subconsciente.
Subconsciente is used to describe something that is partially conscious.
Meaning: partially conscious (adj)
Which one should you use?
It is important to distinguish between subconsciente and inconsciente. While subconsciente refers specifically to the partially conscious mind, inconsciente is the term used for someone who is physically unconscious or lacks awareness.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word can function as a noun by adding the definite article el subconsciente. To form the plural, add -s to the end to create subconscientes.
How do you pronounce it?
/subkonsˈθjente/
Did you know?
- The term conciencia refers to both 'consciousness' and 'conscience' in Spanish. Therefore, when discussing the subconsciente, you are technically discussing the realm of the 'under-conscience'.
- Spanish speakers often use the word inconsciente to describe a person who is reckless or 'mindless' in their actions, a meaning subconsciente never carries.
- The word subconsciente is a 'calque' or loan-translation from English and French, appearing later in the language than older terms for the soul or mind.
Examples in context
- Esto le da al subconsciente una oportunidad para meditar sobre el problema.This gives the subconscious mind a chance to mull over the original problem.This sentence shows how to use subconsciente when referring to the subconscious mind.Tatoeba #4311713 by Lisandro586, translation #4311710 by Lisandro586
- ¿Qué es el subconsciente?What is the subconscious?This sentence demonstrates how to ask for a definition of the term subconsciente.Tatoeba #11577816 by carlosalberto, translation #11577810 by carlosalberto
- El inconsciente es una parte importante de nuestra mente que influye en nuestras decisiones sin que nos demos cuenta.The subconscious is an important part of our mind that influences our decisions without us realizing.
- No sé por qué me gusta tanto este lugar, ¡debe ser el subconsciente!I don't know why I like this place so much, it must be the subconscious!
- Ese miedo subconsciente me paraliza.That subconscious fear paralyzes me.
Example conversation
María and Daniel are discussing a strange dream Daniel had.
- María¿Tuviste algún sueño extraño anoche, Daniel?Did you have a strange dream last night, Daniel?
- DanielSí, creo que es algo subconsciente.Yes, I think it is something subconscious.
- MaríaA veces el subconsciente nos sorprende.Sometimes the subconscious surprises us.
- DanielEs verdad, María.That is true, María.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry subconsciente, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
