apagado
/ah-pah-GAH-doh/
turned off

The lamp is apagado (turned off).
📝 In Action
La luz de la cocina está apagada.
A1The kitchen light is turned off.
¿Puedes revisar el móvil? Parece que está apagado.
A2Can you check the cell phone? It seems like it's off.
El fuego de la chimenea ya está completamente apagado.
B1The fire in the fireplace is already completely extinguished.
💡 Grammar Points
Adjective Agreement
Since 'apagado' describes a thing, its ending must match that thing. Use 'apagada' for feminine things (la televisión) and 'apagados' or 'apagadas' for plural things.
State of Being
We use the verb 'estar' (to be) with 'apagado' because it describes the current state or condition of something (it can be turned back on).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Using the Wrong Verb
Mistake: "El teléfono es apagado."
Correction: El teléfono está apagado. We use 'estar' for temporary conditions, like being off or on.
⭐ Usage Tips
Remember the Root
'Apagado' comes from the verb 'apagar,' which means 'to turn off' or 'to extinguish.' This helps you remember the core meaning.

The color is apagado (dull).
apagado(Adjective)
dull
?colors, light
,subdued
?mood, voice
lifeless
?personality
,gloomy
?atmosphere
📝 In Action
Ella llevaba un vestido de colores muy apagados.
B1She was wearing a dress with very dull colors.
Después de la noticia, su voz se sintió apagada y triste.
B2After the news, his voice felt subdued and sad.
💡 Grammar Points
Figurative Meaning
Think of this meaning as having the 'light' or 'fire' (energy or brightness) turned off. This applies to anything lacking vibrancy, like a quiet personality or a muted color.
⭐ Usage Tips
Describing Personality
When describing a person, 'apagado' means they are quiet, withdrawn, or lack energy. Use it carefully, as it can sound a bit negative.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: apagado
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'apagado' to describe a feeling or appearance, not a machine?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'apagado' used with 'ser' or 'estar'?
Almost always use 'estar' (to be) because 'apagado' describes the current condition or state of something (it is currently off, but could be on later). You would only use 'ser' if you were describing something that is *designed* to be off, which is very rare.
What is the difference between 'apagado' and 'fuera de servicio'?
'Apagado' just means the power is off (like a phone). 'Fuera de servicio' means something is broken or temporarily unavailable, often used for things like elevators or public transportation.