ciertos
“ciertos” means “some” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
some, certain
Also: various
📝 In Action
Ciertos libros están en oferta esta semana.
A2Some books are on sale this week.
Hay ciertos animales que solo viven en esta selva.
B1There are certain animals that only live in this jungle.
Solo ciertos miembros tienen acceso a la sala VIP.
B1Only certain members have access to the VIP room.
true, sure
Also: definite
📝 In Action
Los datos que presentó eran ciertos.
B2The data he presented were true/definite.
Si los rumores son ciertos, tendremos vacaciones extra.
C1If the rumors are true, we will have extra vacation.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: ciertos
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'ciertos' to mean 'some' (unspecified)?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin word *certus*, meaning 'settled, sure, fixed.' This root is the source of many English words like 'certain' and 'certify.'
First recorded: Around the 13th century in Spanish.
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'ciertos' and 'algunos'?
Both mean 'some,' but 'ciertos' often sounds slightly more formal or implies a specific, though unnamed, group or category. 'Algunos' is a more general and common way to say 'some'.
Does 'ciertos' change meaning depending on where it is placed?
Yes, absolutely! When it is placed BEFORE the noun ('ciertos problemas'), it means 'some' or 'unspecified.' When it is placed AFTER the noun or used with 'ser' ('los problemas son ciertos'), it means 'true' or 'definite'.