Inklingo

actualidad

ak-twah-lee-dahth/aktwaliˈðad/

actualidad means the present time in Spanish (referring to the current era).

the present time, current events

Also: nowadays, relevance
NounfB1
General
A modern city street with contemporary electric cars, a person using a sleek smartphone, and a high-speed train in the background.

📝 In Action

En la actualidad, muchas personas prefieren trabajar desde casa.

A2

At the present time, many people prefer to work from home.

Me gusta leer el periódico para estar al tanto de la actualidad.

B1

I like to read the newspaper to keep up with current events.

Es un tema de gran actualidad en nuestra sociedad.

B2

It is a very topical issue (a theme of great relevance) in our society.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • presente (present)
  • hoy en día (nowadays)

Antonyms

  • pasado (past)
  • antigüedad (antiquity/olden times)

Common Collocations

  • en la actualidadcurrently / at present
  • temas de actualidadcurrent affairs / hot topics
  • estar de actualidadto be trendy / to be in the news

Idioms & Expressions

  • al filo de la actualidadRight on top of the latest news as it happens.

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "actualidad" in Spanish:

current eventsnowadaysrelevance

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: actualidad

Question 1 of 3

If you want to say 'Actually, I don't like coffee,' which word should you use?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family
🎵 Rhymes
📚 Etymology

From the Latin word 'actualitas,' which relates to things that are happening (acting) right now.

First recorded: 15th century

Cognates (Related words)

French: actualitéPortuguese: actualidade

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does 'actualidad' mean 'actuality'?

Not usually. In English, 'actuality' means reality. In Spanish, 'actualidad' means 'the present time' or 'current events.' To say 'actually' in Spanish, use 'en realidad'.

How do I say 'news' using this word?

While 'noticias' is the direct word for news, you can use 'la actualidad' to refer to the 'news cycle' or 'current affairs' in a general sense.

Is 'actualidad' formal?

It is slightly more formal than 'ahora' (now), but it's used every day in newspapers, television, and professional settings.