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efectivo means cash — a common term in Travel Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: July 14, 2025

✈️ Travel Spanish

efectivo

noun • /[eh-fek-TEE-bo]/

cash

Example:

Pago en efectivo porque la tarjeta falló.

I'll pay cash because the card failed.

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🧠 What does efectivo mean?

Efectivo means 'cash' in Spanish. It refers to physical money in the form of bills and coins, as opposed to credit cards, checks, or other forms of payment. You'll use this word a lot when traveling, especially in markets, smaller shops, and for things like taxis or tips.

📚 Extra examples

  • ¿Aceptan efectivo aquí?
    Do you accept cash here?
  • Prefiero pagar en efectivo.
    I prefer to pay in cash.
  • Solo tengo efectivo.
    I only have cash.
  • Necesito sacar efectivo del cajero automático.
    I need to get cash from the ATM.
  • Es importante llevar algo de efectivo cuando viajas.
    It's important to carry some cash when you travel.

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'cash' in Spanish?
The Spanish word for 'cash' is 'efectivo'.
How do you pronounce 'efectivo' in Spanish?
It's pronounced eh-fek-TEE-voh, with the stress on the TEE syllable.
How do you use 'efectivo' in a sentence?
Here are a few examples: '¿Aceptan efectivo?' (Do you accept cash?), 'Pago en efectivo' (I pay in cash), or 'Necesito efectivo' (I need cash).
What is the English translation of 'efectivo'?
The English translation of 'efectivo' is 'cash'.
Does 'efectivo' change for gender or number?
No, 'efectivo' is a masculine noun, but it doesn't change its form for singular or plural. You'd say 'el efectivo' for 'the cash', whether it's one bill or many.
Is 'efectivo' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'efectivo' is very common in everyday Spanish. It's an essential word to know for travel and daily life.
Does 'efectivo' have slang or double meanings?
While 'efectivo' primarily means 'cash,' it can also mean 'effective' in other contexts. However, when talking about money, it always means 'cash.' There aren't any common slang terms directly related to 'efectivo' when talking about money.
Is 'efectivo' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
No, 'efectivo' is used the same way and has the same meaning in both Spain and Latin America.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "efectivo"

Synonyms: dinero en efectivo, metálico
Opposites: tarjeta de crédito, cheque

💡 Did You Know?

While paying with card is becoming more common, many small businesses in Spanish-speaking countries still prefer or even require cash. It's always a good idea to have some efectivo on hand!

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