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adecuado means appropriate — a common term in Academic & Exam Prep. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: November 23, 2025

🧠 Academic & Exam Prep

adecuado

adjective • /[a-de-KWA-do]/

appropriate

Example:

Usa un lenguaje adecuado.

Use appropriate language.

🧠 What does adecuado mean?

The adjective 'adecuado' describes something that is appropriate, suitable, or fitting for a particular purpose, situation, or need. It indicates that an object, action, or person meets the necessary requirements or standards of a specific context. It is often followed by the preposition 'para' to specify what it is suitable for.

📚 Extra examples

  • Es fundamental elegir el tono adecuado para una comunicación profesional.
    It is essential to choose the appropriate tone for professional communication.
  • El médico le recetó el tratamiento más adecuado para su condición.
    The doctor prescribed the most suitable treatment for his condition.
  • Asegúrate de llevar ropa adecuada para el clima de la montaña.
    Make sure you bring clothing appropriate for the mountain climate.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'adecuado' comes from the verb 'adecuar', which means 'to adapt' or 'to make suitable'. This connection highlights the idea of something being perfectly fitted or adjusted to a specific need or context.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "adecuado"

Synonyms: apropiado, conveniente, idóneo, pertinente, oportuno
Opposites: inadecuado, inapropiado, inconveniente, impropio

🔍 See more academic & exam prep words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'appropriate' in Spanish?
The most common and direct translation for 'appropriate' is 'adecuado'. Other synonyms like 'apropiado' or 'conveniente' can also be used depending on the context.
How do you pronounce 'adecuado' in Spanish?
The word 'adecuado' is pronounced ah-deh-KWAH-doh. The stress falls on the third syllable, '-cua-'.
How do you use 'adecuado' in a sentence?
'Adecuado' is an adjective used to describe a noun. For example: 'Necesitas el equipo adecuado para escalar la montaña' (You need the appropriate equipment to climb the mountain). It often appears with the preposition 'para' to specify what something is suitable for.
What is the English translation of 'adecuado'?
The primary English translation of 'adecuado' is 'appropriate'. It can also be translated as 'suitable', 'fitting', or 'adequate' depending on the specific context.
Does 'adecuado' change for gender or number?
Yes, as a standard Spanish adjective, 'adecuado' must agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies. The forms are: adecuado (masculine singular), adecuada (feminine singular), adecuados (masculine plural), and adecuadas (feminine plural).
Is 'adecuado' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'adecuado' is quite common in both formal and everyday Spanish. It is frequently used in professional, academic, and general conversations to describe something as being right or suitable for a situation.
Does 'adecuado' have slang or double meanings?
No, 'adecuado' does not have any common slang or idiomatic double meanings. It is a straightforward adjective with a clear and consistent meaning.
Is 'adecuado' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The use and meaning of 'adecuado' are consistent across Spain and Latin America. It is a standard term understood and used in the same way throughout the Spanish-speaking world.

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