avance
“avance” means “progress” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
progress, advance
Also: breakthrough, development
📝 In Action
Hemos hecho un gran avance en el proyecto esta semana.
B1We have made great progress on the project this week.
El avance de la tecnología es impresionante.
A2The advance of technology is impressive.
El ejército ordenó el avance de las tropas.
B2The army ordered the advance of the troops.
down payment
Also: cash advance, deposit
📝 In Action
Tienes que dar un avance del 10% para reservar el coche.
B1You have to give a 10% down payment to reserve the car.
Pedí un avance de mi sueldo para pagar las cuentas.
B2I asked for a cash advance on my salary to pay the bills.
trailer, preview
Also: teaser
📝 In Action
Vi el avance de la nueva película y parece muy buena.
A2I saw the trailer for the new movie and it looks very good.
El noticiero mostró un avance de las noticias de mañana.
B1The news program showed a preview of tomorrow's news.
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "avance" in Spanish:
advance→breakthrough→cash advance→deposit→development→down payment→preview→progress→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: avance
Question 1 of 2
Which English word best translates 'avance' in the sentence: 'El avance del 20% es obligatorio.'
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The Spanish word 'avance' comes directly from the verb 'avanzar', which itself originated in Old French ('avancer'). The core meaning has always been about moving something forward or making something happen earlier.
First recorded: 15th century (as a related verb form)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'avance' the same as 'adelanto'?
They are very close synonyms! Both mean 'advance' or 'progress.' 'Avance' is often used for scientific or military progress, while 'adelanto' is very common for financial advances (like getting paid early) and general progress.
How do I know if 'avance' means 'progress' or 'trailer'?
Context is key. If you are talking about research, technology, or a project, it means 'progress.' If you are talking about a movie, show, or news segment, it means 'trailer' or 'preview'.


