Lael logo

cualquier means any — a common term in Essential Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: October 13, 2025

📘 Essential Spanish

cualquier

adjective • /[kwal-KYEHR]/

any

Example:

Puedes elegir cualquier opción.

You can choose any option.

🧠 What does cualquier mean?

The Spanish word 'cualquier' generally translates to 'any' in English. It implies a lack of specification or preference among a group of options. It can also mean 'whatever,' 'whichever,' or 'any...at all' depending on the context.

📚 Extra examples

  • Puedes tomar cualquier libro de la estantería.
    You can take any book from the shelf.
  • Cualquier día de estos podemos ir al cine.
    We can go to the cinema any day now.
  • Cualquier persona con un poco de sentido común lo sabría.
    Any person with a bit of common sense would know that.
  • No puedes ir con cualquier persona a ese lugar.
    You can't go with just anyone to that place.
  • Llámame a cualquier hora.
    Call me anytime.

💡 Did You Know?

While 'cualquier' doesn't change for gender or number, it can be shortened to 'cualquiera' before a noun followed by a preposition. For example, 'cualquiera de nosotros' (any of us).

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "cualquier"

Synonyms: algún, alguno, alguna
Opposites: específico, determinado

🔍 See more essential spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'any' in Spanish?
The most common way to say 'any' in Spanish is 'cualquier'.
How do you pronounce 'cualquier' in Spanish?
It's pronounced kwal-kee-AIR, with the stress on the last syllable.
How do you use 'cualquier' in a sentence?
'Cualquier' usually precedes the noun it modifies, similar to how 'any' is used in English. For example, 'cualquier libro' (any book).
What is the English translation of 'cualquier'?
The most common translation is 'any,' but it can also mean 'whatever,' 'whichever,' or 'any...at all,' depending on the context.
Does 'cualquier' change for gender or number?
No, 'cualquier' remains the same regardless of the gender or number of the noun it modifies. This makes it relatively easy to use!
Is 'cualquier' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'cualquier' is a very common word used frequently in everyday conversations and writing.
Does 'cualquier' have slang or double meanings?
While 'cualquier' itself doesn't have any slang or double meanings, the phrase 'un cualquiera' can be used to describe someone insignificant or of dubious character.
Is 'cualquier' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The usage and meaning of 'cualquier' are generally consistent across both Spain and Latin America.

📱 Download the App

Get reminders · Save favorites · Share words

Lael App Logo

Lael: Spanish Word of the Day

Download on the App Store