Inklingo
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besos

/BEH-sohs/

kisses

A simple illustration showing two cartoon characters affectionately kissing on the cheek.

Besos means "kisses," referring to the physical act of affection.

besos(Noun)

mA1

kisses

?

physical acts of kissing

Also:

pecks

?

light, quick kisses

📝 In Action

En España, nos saludamos con dos besos en la mejilla.

A1

In Spain, we greet each other with two kisses on the cheek.

Le dio muchos besos al bebé antes de irse a trabajar.

A2

She gave the baby many kisses before leaving for work.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • ósculos (kisses (formal/literary))
  • abrazos (hugs)

Common Collocations

  • dar besos – to give kisses
  • un montón de besos – a load of kisses

💡 Grammar Points

Masculine Plural

Even though the action might be associated with different people, 'besos' is always a masculine noun.

❌ Common Pitfalls

Confusing Noun and Verb

Mistake: "Using 'besos' when you mean the verb 'besar' (to kiss)."

Correction: Remember: 'besos' is the thing (kisses); 'besar' is the action (to kiss). Example: 'Quiero darte besos' (I want to give you kisses).

⭐ Usage Tips

Cultural Note on Greetings

The number of cheek 'besos' varies by region. In Spain, it's usually two; in parts of Latin America, it might be one, or none at all between men.

A simple illustration of a white envelope sealed with a large, bright red lipstick kiss mark, symbolizing affection sent via mail.

Besos is also used to mean "love" or "hugs and kisses" when signing off a letter or text message.

besos(Noun)

mA2

love

?

as a sign-off in a letter/text

,

cheers

?

informal closing

Also:

hugs and kisses

?

when used with 'abrazos'

📝 In Action

Nos vemos el sábado. Muchos besos, Ana.

A2

See you Saturday. Love, Ana.

Te escribo pronto. Un beso enorme para ti y tu familia.

B1

I'll write to you soon. Huge love for you and your family.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • saludos (greetings (more formal))
  • abrazos (hugs)

Common Collocations

  • muchos besos – lots of love
  • un beso fuerte – a big kiss/lots of love

💡 Grammar Points

Writing Closings

When used in writing, 'besos' acts as a friendly closing signature, similar to 'Love' or 'Best' in English, but only for people you know well.

❌ Common Pitfalls

Using in Formal Contexts

Mistake: "Signing off a professional email to a client with 'Besos.'"

Correction: Reserve 'besos' for friends and family. For professional communication, use 'Saludos cordiales' (Kind regards).

⭐ Usage Tips

Using the Singular

Often, the singular 'un beso' or 'un besito' is used in this context, even when signing off to more than one person, meaning 'sending my love.'

✏️ Quick Practice

💡 Quick Quiz: besos

Question 1 of 2

Which English sign-off is the best translation for 'Muchos besos' at the end of a text message?

📚 More Resources

Word Family

beso(kiss (singular noun)) - noun
besar(to kiss) - verb
besucón/a(a person who likes kissing/affectionate) - adjective

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I use 'un beso' (singular) versus 'besos' (plural) in writing?

Both are common in informal closings. 'Un beso' or 'Un besito' feels slightly more personal or intimate, while 'Besos' or 'Muchos besos' is a standard, friendly closing to multiple people or a group.

Is it okay for a man to sign off a message to another man with 'besos'?

Yes, absolutely, if they are good friends or family. In Spanish-speaking cultures, affection between friends and family, regardless of gender, is often expressed through 'besos' (kisses/love) in greetings and closings.