blando
“blando” means “soft” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
soft
Also: tender, squishy
📝 In Action
El pan está muy blando.
A1The bread is very soft.
Prefiero dormir en un colchón blando.
A2I prefer sleeping on a soft mattress.
La fruta está blanda porque ya está muy madura.
B1The fruit is squishy because it is already very ripe.
lenient
Also: soft
📝 In Action
El profesor es muy blando con sus alumnos.
B1The teacher is very lenient with his students.
No puedes ser tan blando si quieres que te respeten.
B2You can't be so soft if you want them to respect you.
Mi padre tiene un corazón blando.
B1My father is soft-hearted.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: blando
Question 1 of 3
Which of these things would you describe as 'blando'?
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👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'blandus', which originally meant smooth, gentle, or flattering. It shares the same roots as the English word 'blandish' (to coax or flatter).
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can 'blando' be used for sounds?
No. In English, you might say 'soft music,' but in Spanish, you should use 'música suave' or 'música baja.' 'Blando' is strictly for texture or personality.
What is the difference between 'blando' and 'tierno'?
'Blando' is generally about the physical state (not hard). 'Tierno' usually means 'tender' (like meat or a cake) or 'sweet/affectionate' (like a puppy).
Is 'blando' always a bad thing when describing a person?
Usually, yes. It often implies a lack of strength or character. If you want to say someone is kind or gentle in a positive way, 'bondadoso' or 'amable' is better.