Confusing with 'Excepto'

'Salvo' is a handy word for pointing out an exception to a general statement. It works just like the English word 'except'.

Excluding Something

When you combine it with 'que' to make 'salvo que' (unless), the verb that follows needs to be in a special 'wishing' form called the subjunctive. For example, '...salvo que llueva' (unless it rains), not '...salvo que llueve'.

Using 'salvo que'

Use 'salvo' when you want a direct and clear way to exclude something. It's perfect for both writing and speaking when you want to be precise.

Sounding Natural

Very common, especially in written Spanish and slightly more formal speech.

As an adjective, 'salvo' must change to match the person or thing it describes. Use 'salvo' for one masculine thing, 'salva' for one feminine thing, 'salvos' for multiple masculine things, and 'salvas' for multiple feminine things.

Matching the Noun

You will hear 'sano y salvo' (safe and sound) all the time. It's a fixed phrase used to express relief that someone has come through a dangerous situation without harm.

The Golden Phrase: 'Sano y Salvo'

Moderately common, almost exclusively used in the phrase 'sano y salvo'.

Which 'Save' to Use?

'Salvo' is the form of the verb 'salvar' that you use when you are talking about yourself doing the action right now. It means 'I save'.

The 'I' Form

While 'salvar' often means rescuing, it's also the standard, everyday word for saving a computer file. So, 'Yo salvo el documento' is perfectly normal.

Beyond Rescuing

Extremely common as part of the essential verb 'salvar'.

Learn the complete meaning of the Spanish word 'salvo'. Understand its uses as 'except', 'safe', and the verb 'I save' (salvar). Includes examples, conjugation, and common mistakes.

salvar

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

indicative

present

preterite

imperfect

future

conditional

subjunctive

present

imperfect

imperative

affirmative

negative

Practice Conjugations