ceremonia
/seh-reh-MOH-nee-ah/
ceremony
This image shows a formal event, illustrating ceremonia as a 'ceremony'.
ceremonia(noun)
ceremony
?formal event
rite
?religious or traditional ritual
,observance
?formal tradition
📝 In Action
La ceremonia de boda duró solo media hora.
A2The wedding ceremony only lasted half an hour.
Asistimos a la ceremonia de entrega de premios.
B1We attended the awards ceremony.
El presidente dio un discurso en la ceremonia de inauguración.
B2The president gave a speech at the inauguration ceremony.
💡 Grammar Points
Always Feminine
Remember that 'ceremonia' is a feminine word, so you must use 'la' or 'una' with it, and any adjectives describing it must end in '-a' (e.g., 'la ceremonia bonita').
❌ Common Pitfalls
Using 'Ceremonio'
Mistake: "El ceremonia"
Correction: La ceremonia. Even though it ends in 'a,' some learners mistakenly assume it's masculine; it is always feminine.
⭐ Usage Tips
Ceremony Type
To specify the type of ceremony, use 'de' + the event: 'ceremonia de graduación' (graduation ceremony), 'ceremonia de clausura' (closing ceremony).
The overly rigid and stiff interaction between the characters depicts ceremonia in the context of 'formality' or strict etiquette.
ceremonia(noun)
formality
?excessive politeness or strict etiquette
fuss
?unnecessary trouble or preparation
,etiquette
?social customs
📝 In Action
Deja tanta ceremonia, somos amigos.
B2Stop with all the fuss/formality, we are friends.
Entró en la casa sin ninguna ceremonia.
C1She entered the house without any formality (casually).
💡 Grammar Points
Using 'Tanta'
When talking about excessive formality, 'ceremonia' is often paired with 'tanta' (so much) to emphasize that the behavior is annoying or unnecessary: '¡No hagas tanta ceremonia!' (Don't make such a big deal out of it!).
⭐ Usage Tips
Focus on Behavior
This meaning describes how people behave (being overly polite or following strict rules) rather than a physical event.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: ceremonia
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'ceremonia' to mean 'excessive fuss or formality'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'ceremonia' only for religious events?
No. While it can refer to religious rites, 'ceremonia' is used for any official or formal event, such as graduations, awards nights, inaugurations, or civil weddings.
How do I say 'Master of Ceremonies'?
The common phrase is 'maestro/a de ceremonias'.