cerebros
/seh-reh-brohs/
brains
The image shows two physical brains, representing 'cerebros' as the plural form of the physical organ.
📝 In Action
Los científicos estudian cómo funcionan los cerebros.
A2Scientists study how brains work.
Tuvimos que usar nuestros cerebros para resolver el problema.
B1We had to use our brains to solve the problem.
💡 Grammar Points
Masculine Plural
This word is the plural form of 'el cerebro' (the brain). Like many nouns ending in -o, it is masculine, so it uses masculine articles (los, unos).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Confusing 'Cerebro' and 'Mente'
Mistake: "Using 'cerebro' when you mean the abstract concept of 'mind' or 'spirit'."
Correction: Use 'mente' for the mind (Tu mente está ocupada), and 'cerebro' for the physical organ (Tu cerebro pesa mucho).
⭐ Usage Tips
The Organ
In medical and biological contexts, 'cerebros' always refers to the physical organs.
These two figures, acting as leaders and planners, illustrate 'cerebros' in the context of masterminds or organizers.
cerebros(noun)
masterminds
?people who plan/organize
intellectuals
?smart people
,brains
?the smart ones (figurative)
📝 In Action
Ellos fueron los cerebros detrás de la operación exitosa.
B2They were the masterminds behind the successful operation.
Los cerebros del equipo de diseño se reunieron para debatir.
C1The brains (the intellectual leaders) of the design team met to debate.
💡 Grammar Points
Figurative Plural
When used figuratively to mean 'smart people' or 'leaders,' the word must be plural if referring to more than one person.
⭐ Usage Tips
Referring to People
This meaning is often used to refer to a small, elite group responsible for the planning or success of a complex event or project.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: cerebros
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'cerebros' in its figurative meaning (masterminds)?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'cerebros' masculine or feminine?
'Cerebros' is a masculine noun. You must use the masculine article 'los' (los cerebros) or the masculine adjective forms.
When do I use 'cerebros' versus 'mentes'?
'Cerebros' refers to the physical organs inside the skull. 'Mentes' (minds) refers to the abstract concepts of thought, consciousness, or intellect. However, when talking about smart people, both can sometimes be used interchangeably, but 'cerebros' usually implies strategic planning or leadership.