adecuada
“adecuada” means “appropriate” in Spanish (fitting the circumstances).
appropriate, suitable
Also: adequate, proper
📝 In Action
Esta es la herramienta adecuada para cortar el metal.
B1This is the appropriate tool for cutting the metal.
La iluminación no era adecuada para leer el menú.
B2The lighting was not suitable for reading the menu.
Necesitas una respuesta adecuada a la situación tan delicada.
C1You need a suitable answer for such a delicate situation.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: adecuada
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence correctly uses 'adecuada'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from the Latin verb *adaequāre*, which meant 'to make equal to' or 'to match' one thing with another. This root gives us the modern sense of 'making something fit' a given standard or situation.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'adecuada' and 'apropiada'?
They are very close synonyms! 'Adecuada' often focuses on fitness or sufficiency (Is it enough? Does it match the requirement?). 'Apropiada' often focuses more on social or moral correctness (Is it proper? Is it conventional?). In most daily situations, you can use either one.
How do I use the verb form 'adecuar'?
'Adecuar' means 'to adapt' or 'to adjust' something so that it becomes suitable. For example: 'Tenemos que adecuar el horario a las nuevas necesidades' (We have to adapt the schedule to the new needs).