viejo
/ˈbjexo/
The Spanish phrase viejo means viejo (phrase).
viejo can be used to describe people of advanced age, but it is also used to describe objects that are outdated or worn out. In an informal context, it can also be used as a colloquial way to address a male friend as 'old man' or 'buddy'. Additionally, the phrase mi viejo is a frequent, informal way to affectionately refer to one's father.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
While viejo can be a casual term for a friend, there are more formal ways to refer to aged individuals. If you want to be formal, use Adulto mayor for 'older adult' or Anciano to politely and directly describe an 'elderly' or 'old person'. For an affectionate and endearing tone, you can use the informal Viejito/viejita to mean 'oldie' or 'oldster'.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word changes its ending to agree with the noun it describes: vieja is used for feminine singular nouns, viejos for masculine plural nouns and viejas for feminine plural nouns.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈbjexo/
Did you know?
- Spanish uses the adjective viejo for 'old' when something is outdated, but uses antiguo when something is 'old' in the sense of being an antique or historic.
- In some Latin American countries, calling someone mi viejo or mi vieja can refer to a spouse or partner rather than a parent.
- Using the diminutive viejito can sometimes be used sarcastically to describe someone who is acting 'old' or grumpy, even if they are very young.
Examples in context
- Mi perro es un viejito adorableMy dog is an adorable oldie
- Mi viejito siempre tiene historias interesantes para contar.My oldie always has interesting stories to tell.
- Cuida de tu viejita con amor y paciencia.Take care of your oldster with love and patience.
- Mi vecino es un achacoso muy amableMy neighbor is a very kind old person with health issues
- Ese coche es muy viejo.That car is very old.
- No quiero usar un libro viejo.I don't want to use an old book.
- Mi abuelo tiene un reloj viejo.My grandfather has an old watch.
Example conversation
María and Mateo are looking at a piece of furniture in a shop.
- María¿Te gusta este mueble?Do you like this piece of furniture?
- MateoNo, parece demasiado viejo.No, it looks too old.
- MaríaPero el estilo es muy bonito.But the style is very pretty.
- MateoPrefiero algo más moderno, María.I prefer something more modern, María.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry viejo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
