A small cartoon figure stands on a path, surrounded by contrasting environmental elements: a bright sun above, a dark rain cloud, a smooth bridge leading forward, and a large boulder blocking a side path. These elements symbolize the various conditions affecting the figure.

circunstancias

seer-koon-STAhn-seeahs

nounfB1

circumstances?the conditions or factors affecting an event,conditions?the state of affairs

Also:situation?general state of things

📝 In Action

Dadas las circunstancias, tuvimos que cancelar el viaje.

Given the circumstances, we had to cancel the trip.

No puedo ayudarte en estas circunstancias.

I cannot help you under these conditions.

Bajo ninguna circunstancia debes abrir esa puerta.

Under no circumstances should you open that door.

Las circunstancias de su vida cambiaron drásticamente.

The conditions of her life changed drastically.

Word Connections

Synonyms

condiciones (conditions)
situación (situation)
detalles (details)

Common Collocations

bajo ninguna circunstancia – under no circumstances
dadas las circunstancias – given the circumstances
en estas circunstancias – in these circumstances

💡 Grammar Points

Always Plural

Even when referring to a single situation, Spanish often uses the plural form 'circunstancias' when talking about the general conditions surrounding an event.

❌ Common Pitfalls

Confusing Singular/Plural

Mistake: "Using the singular 'circunstancia' when a fixed phrase calls for the plural, e.g., 'Bajo esta circunstancia.'"

Correction: Always use the plural in common fixed phrases: 'Bajo estas circunstancias' (Under these circumstances).

⭐ Usage Tips

Connecting Context

This word is almost always preceded by prepositions like 'bajo' (under) or 'dadas' (given) to introduce the background context for a main action.

✏️ Quick Practice

💡 Quick Quiz: circunstancias

Question 1 of 1

Which phrase correctly means 'Under no circumstances'?

📚 More Resources

Word Family

circunstancia(circumstance (singular)) - noun

circunstancial(circumstantial) - adjective

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is 'circunstancias' usually plural, even when referring to one situation?

We use the plural because a 'circumstance' is rarely just one thing; it’s usually a collection of details, conditions, or factors acting together. The plural form helps convey this complexity.