comodín
/komoˈdin/masculine
The English phrase "wild card" is translated into Spanish as comodín.
In card games, a comodín is a card that can substitute for any other. Metaphorically, the term refers to a person or thing that can be used to solve a problem or change a situation. In many contexts, especially in card games, comodín is also the standard translation for "joker".
Meaning: special card (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of comodín is comodines.
How do you pronounce it?
/komoˈdin/
Did you know?
- Outside of gaming, comodín is often used to describe a 'generic' or 'all-purpose' item, such as a piece of clothing that matches everything in a wardrobe.
- The word comodín is built from the adjective cómodo, which means 'comfortable' or 'convenient'.
- While comodín translates to 'joker', Spanish speakers use the word bufón when referring to the actual court jester who entertained kings.
Examples in context
- Él tiene un comodín.He's got a wild card.This sentence is useful for showing how to use comodín to indicate possession.Tatoeba #1274070 by marcelostockle, translation #13568025 by Seael
- Esta carta actúa como una tarjeta comodínThis card acts as a wild card
- La carta especial funciona como un comodínThe special card works as a wild card
- ¿Quién tiene el comodín?Who has the wild card?
- Necesito un comodín para ganar la partida.I need a wild card to win the game.
- Usa el comodín para cambiar tu estrategia.Use the wild card to change your strategy.
Example conversation
Javier and María are playing a card game at home.
- Javier¿Tienes algún comodín en tu mano?Do you have any wild card in your hand?
- MaríaSí, tengo un comodín muy útil.Yes, I have a very useful wild card.
- Javier¡Qué suerte tiene María hoy!How lucky Maria is today!
- MaríaEs solo cuestión de estrategia.It is just a matter of strategy.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “wild card” translations and entries comodín, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries comodín, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
