antigua
/an-TEE-gwah/
old
This ancient rocking chair is very antigua (old).
antigua(Adjective)
old
?referring to age or duration
,ancient
?referring to historical times
long-standing
?referring to traditions or relationships
📝 In Action
Esta es una ciudad muy antigua con mucha historia.
A1This is a very old city with a lot of history.
La casa de mi abuela tiene una arquitectura antigua y preciosa.
A2My grandmother's house has beautiful old (or antique) architecture.
La civilización egipcia es muy antigua.
B1The Egyptian civilization is very ancient.
💡 Grammar Points
Gender Agreement
Since 'antigua' ends in 'a', it is the feminine form. You must use it when describing feminine nouns (like 'casa' or 'mesa'). If the noun were masculine (like 'libro'), you would use 'antiguo'.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Confusing 'antigua' and 'vieja'
Mistake: "Using 'vieja' to mean 'ancient' or 'historic'."
Correction: 'Vieja' often implies deterioration or simply age, while 'antigua' is better for historical value or long-standing quality. Use 'antigua' for historic buildings or artifacts.
⭐ Usage Tips
Placement
When 'antigua' means 'old' or 'ancient' in a descriptive way, it usually comes after the noun: 'una iglesia antigua' (an old church).
The crown symbolizes the antigua (former) ruler.
antigua(Adjective)
former
?describing a previous position or status
,ex-
?prefix for a previous role
old
?referring to a previous version or relationship
📝 In Action
Mi antigua jefa me llamó para pedirme un favor.
B1My former boss (female) called me to ask for a favor.
Esta es mi antigua oficina, ahora trabajo en otro edificio.
B2This is my former office; now I work in another building.
⭐ Usage Tips
Crucial Placement Rule
When 'antigua' means 'former' or 'ex-', it MUST be placed BEFORE the noun. Compare: 'Una amiga antigua' (An old friend, age) vs. 'Mi antigua amiga' (My former friend, relationship status).
She is his antigua (old flame).
antigua(Noun)
old flame
?former romantic partner
ex-girlfriend
?former romantic partner
,former student
?when referring to an alumna
📝 In Action
Me encontré con mi antigua en el supermercado, fue incómodo.
B2I ran into my old flame at the supermarket; it was awkward.
Ella es una antigua de la universidad; ahora es doctora.
C1She is a former student (alumna) of the university; now she is a doctor.
⭐ Usage Tips
Use with Articles
When used as a noun meaning 'old flame,' it almost always needs an article ('la antigua' or 'mi antigua') to show that it's acting as a person.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: antigua
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'antigua' to mean 'former' rather than 'old in age'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'antigua' the same as 'vieja'?
Not exactly. While both mean 'old,' 'antigua' usually suggests value, history, or long duration (like an antique or an ancient city). 'Vieja' often implies simple age, wear, or sometimes negative connotation (like an old, broken-down car).
How do I know whether to place 'antigua' before or after the noun?
This is a great question! If you place it AFTER the noun (e.g., 'una silla antigua'), it means 'old in age.' If you place it BEFORE the noun (e.g., 'mi antigua silla'), it means 'former' or 'the one I used to have.'