tíos
/tios/from spelling rules
The Spanish phrase for "uncle and aunt" is tíos.
tíos is a collective term used to describe the brothers and sisters of one's parents and their spouses.
How does it change in a sentence?
The specific form you use depends on the gender and number of the people you are describing. Use the masculine singular tío for a single uncle and the feminine singular tía for a single aunt. Use the feminine plural tías to refer exclusively to a group of aunts. To refer to a mixed-gender group of uncles and aunts, or a group of uncles, use the masculine plural tíos.
How do you pronounce it?
/tios/
Did you know?
- Using tío as slang in Spain can be used to express surprise or disbelief, such as saying ¡Tío! to mean 'No way!' or 'Are you kidding!'
- Among young people in Spain, tío and tía are frequently used as slang particles, similar to how an English speaker might use 'dude' or 'guy' to punctuate a sentence.
- In some regions, calling someone tía in a sarcastic tone can be a way of calling them 'old-fashioned' or 'out of touch'.
Examples in context
- Mis tíos viven en Madrid.My uncles and aunts live in Madrid.
- Voy a visitar a mis tíos este fin de semana.I am going to visit my uncles and aunts this weekend.
- ¿Cómo están tus tíos?How are your uncles and aunts?
Example conversation
Elena and Javier are talking about their family gathering.
- ElenaMañana visitan mis tíos.My uncle and aunt are visiting tomorrow.
- Javier¿A qué hora llegan?What time do they arrive?
- ElenaLlegan al mediodía, Javier.They arrive at noon, Javier.
- JavierPerfecto, yo ayudaré con la comida.Perfect, I will help with the food.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
