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

📅 Published: November 25, 2025

📘 Essential Spanish

vida

noun • /[BEE-da]/

life

Example:

La vida es corta, disfrútala.

Life is short, enjoy it.

🧠 What does vida mean?

Vida is a fundamental feminine noun that translates to 'life'. It encompasses several concepts, from the biological state of being alive to the period of a person's existence. It can refer to a person's experiences and history, as in 'la vida de Frida Kahlo' (the life of Frida Kahlo). Furthermore, 'vida' can describe the quality of existence, such as 'una vida difícil' (a difficult life), or convey a sense of energy, vitality, or liveliness, as in 'un pueblo con mucha vida' (a town with a lot of life).

📚 Extra examples

  • La vida en el campo es muy tranquila.
    Life in the countryside is very peaceful.
  • Fue el día más feliz de mi vida.
    It was the happiest day of my life.
  • Se dedica a salvar vidas como médico de urgencias.
    He dedicates himself to saving lives as an emergency doctor.
  • A esta casa le falta vida; necesita más color y luz.
    This house lacks life; it needs more color and light.
  • ¿Cómo te va la vida?
    How's life going for you?

💡 Did You Know?

The common Spanish expression 'ganarse la vida' literally translates to 'to earn oneself the life'. It is the standard way to say 'to earn a living' and reflects the idea that one's work is essential to sustaining one's existence.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "vida"

Synonyms: existencia, ser, subsistencia, duración
Opposites: muerte, fallecimiento, inexistencia

🔍 See more essential spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'life' in Spanish?
The most common way to say 'life' in Spanish is 'vida'. For example, 'la vida es bella' means 'life is beautiful'.
How do you pronounce 'vida' in Spanish?
'Vida' is pronounced 'BEE-dah'. The 'v' in Spanish is pronounced like a soft 'b' sound, and the 'i' is a long 'ee' sound as in 'see'.
How do you use 'vida' in a sentence?
'Vida' is a feminine noun, so it is used with feminine articles and adjectives, like 'la vida' or 'una vida larga'. For instance, 'Disfruta de la vida' means 'Enjoy life'.
What is the English translation of 'vida'?
The direct English translation of 'vida' is 'life'.
Does 'vida' change for gender or number?
'Vida' is a feminine noun ('la vida'). It has a plural form, 'vidas', used when referring to multiple individual lives, as in 'salvar vidas' (to save lives).
Is 'vida' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'vida' is an extremely common and fundamental word used in all contexts of Spanish, from daily conversation to literature and philosophy.
Does 'vida' have slang or double meanings?
While 'vida' primarily means 'life', it is used in many expressions. 'Darse la gran vida' means to live it up or live a life of luxury. 'Mi vida' is also a common term of endearment, similar to 'my love' or 'darling'.
Is 'vida' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The core meaning of 'vida' is the same across all Spanish-speaking regions. However, its use in idiomatic expressions might vary slightly, though most common phrases like 'ganarse la vida' (to earn a living) are universally understood.

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