verbal
/beɾˈbal/
The English word 'verbal' is translated into Spanish as verbal.
The adjective verbal is used to describe things that are spoken or oral rather than written. In a linguistic or grammatical context, it can also refer to a word derived from a verb or a verb form that does not function as a predicate.
Meaning: spoken and not written, oral (adj)
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective verbal is invariant in gender, meaning it stays the same whether you are describing a masculine or feminine noun. However, it must change to verbales to agree with plural nouns.
How do you pronounce it?
/beɾˈbal/
Did you know?
- While verbal means 'spoken', Spanish speakers often use the phrase de palabra to describe a 'verbal agreement'. A contrato verbal is a legal term, but a pacto de palabra implies a deeper level of personal honor and trust.
- While in English 'verbal' can sometimes loosely mean 'using words' (including written ones), in Spanish, using verbal to describe a contract or agreement strictly implies it was spoken aloud and not documented.
- If you are discussing a person's ability to use language in a medical or psychological context, a Spanish speaker might use the term oral instead of verbal to refer to the physical act of speaking.
Examples in context
- Mi incontinencia verbal ya me ha traído más de un problema.My verbal incontinence has already caused a few issues for me.This sentence shows how to use verbal to describe a type of speech or communication.Tatoeba #8112070 by Seael, translation #10473007 by DJ_Saidez
- La comunicación verbal es fundamental en el trabajo en equipo.Verbal communication is crucial in teamwork.
- La habilidad de expresión oral es clave en los debates académicos.The ability of verbal expression is key in academic debates.
- Quedamos de palabra en que te ayudaría con la mudanza.We agreed verbally that I would help you with the move.
- El profesor explicó de viva voz los resultados del experimento.The professor explained the results of the experiment verbally.
- No hubo ningún acuerdo verbal entre ellos.There was no verbal agreement between them.
- La comunicación verbal es muy importante.Verbal communication is very important.
Example conversation
Alejandro and Sofía are discussing a job offer.
- Alejandro¿Recibiste la oferta por escrito?Did you receive the offer in writing?
- SofíaNo, solo fue un acuerdo verbal.No, it was only a verbal agreement.
- AlejandroDeberías pedir un contrato formal.You should ask for a formal contract.
- SofíaTienes razón, lo haré mañana.You're right, I'll do it tomorrow.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “verbal” translations and entries verbal, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
