antecedentes
“antecedentes” means “background” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
background, precedents
Also: history, record
📝 In Action
Para tomar una decisión, necesitamos conocer todos los antecedentes del caso.
B1To make a decision, we need to know all the background information of the case.
Sus antecedentes académicos son excelentes.
B2His academic background is excellent.
Los científicos investigaron los antecedentes de la enfermedad.
B2The scientists investigated the history (or origins) of the disease.
criminal record, police record
Also: record of offenses
📝 In Action
Necesitas un certificado de antecedentes penales para el puesto.
C1You need a certificate of criminal record for the position.
El sospechoso tiene antecedentes por robo.
C1The suspect has a record for theft.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: antecedentes
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'antecedentes' to mean 'background'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin word *antecedens*, which is the present participle of *antecedere*. This is formed by combining *ante* (meaning 'before') and *cedere* (meaning 'to go' or 'to happen'). It literally describes 'things going before' the present moment.
First recorded: Medieval Latin, entering Spanish with its current meaning centuries ago.
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is 'antecedentes' always plural?
Spanish treats 'antecedentes' as a collection of previous events or facts, not a single item. Think of it like the English word 'data' or 'information'—even though we might think of it as one thing, the Spanish structure requires the plural form.
How do I ask someone about their background without sounding like a police officer?
If you mean general background (like family or education), it's better to use phrases like '¿Cuál es tu formación?' (What is your education/training?) or '¿De dónde vienes?' (Where are you from?). 'Antecedentes' is often too formal or suggests a legal inquiry.