atún
ah-TOON
/aˈtun/
📝 In Action
Prefiero el atún en lata para la ensalada.
A1I prefer canned tuna for the salad.
El atún rojo es muy caro en este restaurante.
B1The bluefin tuna is very expensive in this restaurant.
¿Quieres un bocadillo de atún?
A1Do you want a tuna sandwich?
💡 Grammar Points
Always Masculine
Even if you are talking about a female fish, the word remains 'el atún.' To specify the sex, you would say 'el atún hembra.'
❌ Common Pitfalls
The Vanishing Accent
Mistake: “atúnes”
Correction: atunes
⭐ Usage Tips
Canned vs Fresh
In Spanish-speaking countries, 'atún en lata' (canned tuna) is a staple pantry item. If you want fresh tuna steak, look for 'filete de atún' or 'lomo de atún' at the market.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: atún
Question 1 of 1
What happens to the accent mark when you make 'atún' plural?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'atún' a common ingredient in Spanish tapas?
Yes! You will often find it in 'empanadillas' (small savory pastries), 'ensaladilla rusa' (potato salad), or served as 'mojama' (salt-cured tuna fillet).
Does the word change gender if the fish is female?
No, it is a fixed masculine noun. You always say 'el atún' regardless of the actual sex of the fish.