apropiado
/ah-proh-pee-AH-doh/
appropriate
When something is suitable or correct for the situation, it is apropiado.
apropiado(adjective)
appropriate
?suitable or correct
,suitable
?fitting a need or occasion
fitting
?as in a fitting reply
,proper
?in terms of conduct
📝 In Action
Necesitas encontrar un momento apropiado para hablar con tu jefe.
B1You need to find an appropriate moment to talk to your boss.
Llevar pantalones cortos no es apropiado en este restaurante elegante.
A2Wearing shorts is not appropriate in this elegant restaurant.
La respuesta que diste fue muy apropiada y diplomática.
B2The answer you gave was very suitable and diplomatic.
💡 Grammar Points
Making it Match
Since 'apropiado' is a describing word (adjective), you must change its ending to match the thing you are describing. Use '-a' for feminine things (la hora apropiada), '-os' for masculine plural things, and '-as' for feminine plural things.
Placement is Flexible
This word usually goes after the noun (el momento apropiado), but you can sometimes place it before the noun (un apropiado momento) for a slightly more formal or literary tone.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Forgetting Gender Agreement
Mistake: "La situación es apropiado."
Correction: La situación es apropiada. (Since 'situación' is feminine, the describing word must also end in -a.)
⭐ Usage Tips
Formal Contexts
While 'adecuado' is very similar, 'apropiado' often carries a slightly stronger sense of being socially or formally correct, especially when discussing behavior or dress codes.
When an item is taken possession of, it is apropiado.
📝 In Action
El dinero apropiado fue devuelto a la empresa.
C1The appropriated money was returned to the company.
Los terrenos apropiados por el gobierno serán usados para construir escuelas.
C2The lands seized by the government will be used to build schools.
💡 Grammar Points
Past Participle Use
In this meaning, 'apropiado' is the past form of the verb 'apropiar.' It describes something that had the action of 'taking' done to it.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: apropiado
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses the feminine plural form of 'apropiado'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'apropiado' and 'adecuado'?
They are very similar! 'Apropiado' means 'suitable or fitting,' often in terms of social behavior or context. 'Adecuado' means 'adequate' or 'sufficient,' often implying that it meets a standard or requirement. You can usually use them interchangeably.
How do I use 'apropiado' when describing an action?
You would use the adverb form, 'apropiadamente' (appropriately). For example: 'Ella respondió apropiadamente' (She responded appropriately).