Appearance Vocabulary in Spanish
A collection of Spanish words that describe physical appearances. Ideal for English students learning Spanish.
ser calvo
be bald
The Spanish phrase 'ser calvo' translates to 'be bald' in English. This phrase is generally used to describe a person who lacks hair, specifically on their head. The verb 'ser' illustrates a state of being, while 'calvo' directly translates to 'bald'. In Spanish, adjectives often follow the noun or verb they modify, hence 'ser calvo'. This phrase can be applied to both temporary conditions such as medical conditions, or permanent states, essentially defining an individual's physical appearance.
ser clavados
be nailed (look similar to to someone)
The Spanish phrase 'ser clavados' is an informal, colloquial phrase that is translated to English as 'to be nailed'. However, it is not used to refer to the action of inserting a nail into something, instead, it is used metaphorically, indicating that two or more people, situations, or objects look extremely similar to each other, to such an extent that they seem almost identical. This phrase is primarily used in some Latin American countries and might not be understood in all Spanish-speaking regions.
ser como dos gotas de agua
be like two drops of water
The Spanish phrase 'ser como dos gotas de agua' translates to 'be like two drops of water' in English. This is used as an idiom or expression to describe when two people or things are extremely similar or identical in appearance, much like two drops of water. The phrase brings emphasis on the nearly impossible task of telling one from the other, exhibiting their striking likeness.
ser de altura media
average height
The Spanish term 'ser de altura media' translates to 'be of average height' in English. This is a descriptive phrase often used to describe a person's height. In general, it is used when a person's height isn't particularly short or tall, but falls within the average range. The phrase is formed from 'ser' (to be), 'de' (of), 'altura' (height), and 'media' (average). This direct translation might not sound natural in English because height is described differently in the two languages, i.e., we usually say one 'is' a certain height in English, whereas in Spanish, one 'has' a certain height.
ser de altura mediana
to be of medium height
The Spanish phrase 'ser de altura mediana' translates to 'to be of medium height' in English. This phrase is often used to describe a person's height. In general, being of medium height means that a person is neither very tall nor very short, usually somewhere between the two extremes. It's an indirect way to indicate that a person's height is average or typical when compared to others.
ser de altura normal
normal height
The phrase 'ser de altura normal' in Spanish translates to 'be of normal height' in English. It is commonly used to refer to a person's height, typically implying it's in a range considered average or normal for their age, gender, and ethnicity. For example, 'Ella es de altura normal' would mean 'She is of normal height'. The phrase is primarily used in descriptive contexts.
ser de estatura media
being of average height
The Spanish phrase 'ser de estatura media' translates to 'being of average height' in English. This phrase is typically used to describe a person's height falling within the middle range of a statistical distribution. It can be used in both positive and neutral contexts in either formal or casual conversation. It does not directly indicate shortness or tallness, only that a person's height is in the center of the spectrum when compared to others.
ser de estatura mediana
being of medium height
The Spanish phrase 'ser de estatura mediana' translates to 'being of medium height' in English. In this phrase, 'ser' translates to 'to be,' 'de' means 'of,' 'estatura' equals 'height,' and 'mediana' translates to 'medium.' It is usually used for describing the height of a person in a generic way without specifying exact measurements.
ser de estatura normal
to be of normal height
The Spanish phrase 'ser de estatura normal' translates to 'to be of normal height' in English. It is used when describing a person's physical height as being within the typical or average range. In a sentence, it would serve to clarify an individual's height as not particularly tall or short, but average.
ser delgado
be thin
'Ser delgado' is a Spanish phrase that translates to 'be thin' in English. It can be used to describe a person, object or situation that has a slim, slender or lean appearance or constitution. The phrase utilises the verb 'ser' which indicates a permanent or long-term state, implying that the thinness is not a temporary condition or subject to change. Please note, Spanish is a contextual language, the meaning can slightly vary based on the context where it is used.
ser feo
to be ugly
The Spanish phrase 'ser feo' translates to 'to be ugly' in English. It is often used to describe someone's unpleasant or unattractive appearance. However, it can also be used metaphorically to describe undesirable or unappealing situations or things. It should be noted that, as in English, the usage of the phrase can be seen as rude or harsh and should be used with discretion.
ser gordo
fat
The Spanish term 'ser gordo' translates to 'be fat' in English. It's an expression that refers to an individual's physical appearance, specifically indicating that a person has excess weight or body fat. This term carries a similar connotation as it would in English-speaking cultures, often used in a derogatory or negative manner. However, it is essential to be respectful and mindful of cultural norms and individual sensitivities when using this phrase or similar expressions.
ser guapo
to be handsome
'Ser guapo' is a Spanish phrase that translates to 'to be handsome' in English. It is commonly used to compliment someone on their physical appearance. The verb 'ser' is a form of 'to be' used for permanent or long-lasting characteristics, indicating that the beauty is seen as inherent and long-lasting. The adjective 'guapo' directly translates to 'handsome' however it can also mean 'good-looking' or 'attractive' depending on the context. Despite referring often to physical beauty, 'ser guapo' can also describe someone's pleasing or attractive personality traits, not only their looks.
ser idénticos
be identical
The Spanish phrase 'ser idénticos' translates to 'be identical' in English. This phrase is often used to denote that two or more objects, people, or concepts share an exact likeness or similarity in some or all aspects. The verb 'ser' depicts permanence, equating to the English 'be', and 'idénticos' translates directly to 'identical'. Therefore, the phrase implies a permanent or inherent similarity or sameness.
ser moreno
to be dark
The Spanish phrase 'ser moreno' is generally used to describe someone with dark skin colour or to be dark in complexion. It can also be utilized for referring to someone with brown or dark-coloured hair. It's mainly about physical characteristics, highlighting the darker shades of skin, hair or eyes. For instance, 'Ella es morena' in English translates to 'She is dark-skinned' or 'She has dark hair'. Remember, 'ser moreno' pertains to a constant or unchangeable characteristic.
ser moreno (de piel)
be dark (skin)
The term 'ser moreno (de piel)' in Spanish generally refers to having a dark skin tone. The term 'moreno' itself is descriptive, referring to a darker complexion or hair color in people. It doesn't necessarily point to a specific race or ethnicity, but rather the coloration of the skin. It's essential to notice that 'ser moreno' doesn't always mean that the person is racially black; it could simply signify that the person has a tan or naturally darker skin pigmentation compared to the general populace of their native region.
ser rubio
being blond
The Spanish phrase 'ser rubio' translates to 'being blond' in English. This is most commonly used to describe an individual's hair color, indicating that they have light, almost yellow-colored hair. However, it can also be used more broadly to describe anyone or anything that is light or pale in color. This term is widely used in various Spanish-speaking countries and communities.
sombra de ojos
eyeshadow
The Spanish term 'sombra de ojos' translates directly to 'shadow of eyes' in English, but is better known as 'eyeshadow' among English speakers. This is a cosmetic product applied on the eyelids and under the eyes to add color, depth, and dimension, often making the wearer's eyes stand out or appear more attractive. The term 'sombra de ojos' reflects the use of the product to a shadow or contouring color to the area around the eyes.
Example sentences with sombra de ojos →sordo
deaf
The word 'sordo' in Spanish translates to 'deaf' in English. The term is used to describe a person who is unable to hear. It can be applied both in a literal context - regarding a person physically incapable of hearing, as well as a metaphorical one, where it can be used to describe someone who is not willing to listen or heed advice or instructions.
sudor
sweat
The term 'sudor' in Spanish directly translates to 'sweat' in English. It is commonly used in contexts such as physical activity or a hot day, where one might experience perspiration. This noun can be utilized in a variety of sentences; for example, 'Tengo sudor en mi frente' would imply 'I have sweat on my forehead'. This like any word can have different connotations depending on the context it is used in, and is noteworthy for any student learning Spanish.
tener arrugas
have wrinkles
The Spanish phrase 'tener arrugas' translates to 'have wrinkles' in English. It is commonly used to describe the natural process of aging which is often physically evident through the lines or creases that form on a person's skin, especially on the face. It can also be used metaphorically to indicate wear or stress.
tener barba
Have a beard
The Spanish phrase 'tener barba' translates to 'have a beard' in English. This phrase is used when describing whether someone has facial hair on their chin, cheeks, and neck. It is a common phrase often used in descriptions or conversations about appearance in Spanish.
tener bigote
have a mustache
The Spanish phrase 'tener bigote' translates to 'have a mustache' in English. This phrase could refer to a description of someone's physical appearance, highlighting specifically that they have hair growth above their upper lip, known as a mustache. Alternatively, it may be used figuratively in idiomatic expressions or other cultural references.
tener buen aspecto
look good.
'Tener buen aspecto' is a Spanish phrase that translates to 'look good' in English. This phrase is often used to comment on the physical appearance of people, objects, or situations. For example, one might use 'tener buen aspecto' to compliment someone's outfit, or to describe a piece of fruit that looks fresh and ripe. It's crucial to note that this phrase is not interchangeable with 'ser guapo/guapa' (to be handsome/beautiful), which refers specifically to an individual's physical attractiveness. 'Tener buen aspecto' has more flexibility and can be used in a wider range of contexts.
tener buen color
have good color
'Tener buen color' is a Spanish phrase that directly translates to 'have good color' in English. In the Spanish context, it often refers to someone looking healthy or having a vibrant, lively appearance. This phrase might be used by someone to compliment another's vitality or glowing complexion. It can also be used to refer to the physical color of an object or the level of ripeness of fruits and vegetables.
tener buen estilo
have good style
'Tener buen estilo' is a Spanish phrase which directly translates to 'have good style' in English. This phrase can be used to compliment someone's fashion sense, demeanor, or the way they carry themselves. It can also refer to performing an action with elegance. However, the usage often varies with context.
tener buen figura
having a good figure
The Spanish phrase 'tener buen figura' translates to 'having a good figure' in English. It represents the physical form one has. In many cultures, having a 'good figure' often relates to fitness and shape of the body. For example, someone who exercises regularly and maintains a balanced diet might be described as 'having a good figure'. It's worth noting that perceptions of 'a good figure' can vary greatly depending on individual and cultural preferences.
tener buen presencia
having a good presence
The Spanish phrase 'tener buen presencia' translates to 'having a good presence' in English. This usually refers to the way one carries themselves, their overall demeanor, and their ability to make a strong, positive impression on others. This might pertain to their appearance, their body language, or their way of speaking. It's commonly used in professional settings, such as job interviews or meetings, where it's important to come across as confident, professional, and appealing.
tener buen tipo
Have a good guy.
The Spanish phrase 'tener buen tipo' does not directly translate to 'have a good guy' in English. Instead, it is an idiomatic expression commonly used to indicate someone has a physically attractive appearance or a good body shape. It might be equivalent to saying 'to be in good shape' or 'to look good' in English.
tener buena cara
Have a good face
The Spanish phrase 'tener buena cara' does not translate directly to 'have a good face' in English. It is an idiom that is more accurately translated to 'to look good', or 'to look well'. This phrase is used to describe someone who appears healthy or attractive, or someone who looks like they are in a good mood or feeling well. It does not necessarily refer to the attractiveness of someone's face.