antiguos
/an-TEE-gwos/
old
Depicting something 'old' or historical, like this ancient jar.
antiguos(Adjective)
old
?referring to things or history
,ancient
?referring to historical civilizations or relics
antique
?referring to valuable items
📝 In Action
Estos jarrones chinos son muy antiguos.
A2These Chinese vases are very old/antique.
Los romanos eran pueblos antiguos que construyeron grandes ciudades.
B1The Romans were ancient peoples who built great cities.
💡 Grammar Points
Adjective Agreement
Since 'antiguos' ends in '-os', it must describe masculine, plural nouns (like 'libros' or 'monumentos').
❌ Common Pitfalls
Old vs. Worn Out
Mistake: "Using 'antiguos' for people or things that are just aged or worn out."
Correction: Use 'viejos' (old/aged) for people, or things that are just deteriorating. 'Antiguos' often suggests historical value or great age.
⭐ Usage Tips
Historical Context
When talking about history, civilizations, or artifacts, 'antiguos' is the perfect word to use.
Showing something that was 'former' or previous, like this old ribbon that has been replaced.
antiguos(Adjective)
former
?referring to a previous position or status
,previous
?referring to a past relationship
📝 In Action
Mis antiguos jefes me dieron una buena recomendación.
B1My former bosses gave me a good recommendation.
Los antiguos alumnos visitaron la escuela.
B2The previous students (alumni) visited the school.
💡 Grammar Points
Placement is Key
When 'antiguos' is placed before the noun (e.g., 'antiguos amigos'), it means 'former' or 'previous.' When placed after the noun (e.g., 'amigos antiguos'), it means 'old' in age.
⭐ Usage Tips
Relationship Status
Use 'antiguos' before a noun to clearly indicate that the relationship or position is now over, like saying 'ex-.' For example, 'antiguos dueños' (former owners).
Representing 'the ancients,' or people from classical times.
antiguos(Noun)
the ancients
?referring to people of classical times
ancestors
?used formally or poetically
📝 In Action
Los antiguos nos dejaron un gran legado arquitectónico.
B2The ancients left us a great architectural legacy.
Debemos aprender de los errores de nuestros antiguos.
C1We must learn from the mistakes of our ancestors.
💡 Grammar Points
Adjective to Noun
In Spanish, you can often turn an adjective (like 'antiguo') into a noun (like 'los antiguos') by placing an article (like 'los') in front of it. This means 'the old ones' or 'the people who are ancient.'
⭐ Usage Tips
Formal/Historical Use
This noun form is best reserved for talking about historical figures, classical civilizations (like the Greeks or Egyptians), or traditions passed down through generations.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: antiguos
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'antiguos' to mean 'former' or 'previous'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'antiguos' and 'viejos'?
'Antiguos' usually describes things that are old but historically important, or things that refer to a previous time or status (like a 'former boss'). 'Viejos' describes things or people that are simply aged, worn out, or elderly.
Can I use 'antiguos' to describe old people?
It is generally better to use 'viejos' or, more respectfully, 'personas mayores' (older people) or 'ancianos'. While 'antiguos' can refer to 'the ancients' (historical figures), it is not used in modern conversation to describe a person's age.