alguno
“alguno” means “some” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
some, any
Also: a few
📝 In Action
Necesito algún consejo para mi viaje.
A1I need some advice for my trip.
¿Hay alguna farmacia abierta cerca de aquí?
A1Is there any pharmacy open near here?
Algunas personas no vinieron a la reunión.
A2Some people didn't come to the meeting.
someone, some (of them)
Also: any (of them)
📝 In Action
Si ves a mis amigos, ¿vino alguno?
A2If you saw my friends, did any (of them) come?
Algunas son más difíciles que otras.
A2Some (of them) are more difficult than others.
Yo no conozco a ninguno, pero mi hermana conoce a alguno.
B1I don't know anyone, but my sister knows someone.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: alguno
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses the short form of 'alguno'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from a blend of two Latin words: *aliquis* (meaning 'somebody') and *unus* (meaning 'one'). This blend resulted in the concept of 'some one' or 'an unspecified single entity'.
First recorded: Early Medieval Spanish (circa 13th century)
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'alguno' and 'ninguno'?
'Alguno' refers to a positive, unspecified quantity ('some' or 'any'). 'Ninguno' is its direct opposite and means a negative, unspecified quantity ('none' or 'not any'). They both follow the same rule about shortening to 'algún' and 'ningún' before masculine singular nouns.
How do I know whether to use 'alguno' or 'algún'?
You only use 'algún' when the word that comes immediately after it is a single, masculine noun (e.g., 'algún coche'). In all other situations (feminine nouns, plural nouns, or when the word stands alone as a pronoun), you use the full form: 'alguna', 'algunos', 'algunas', or 'alguno'.