ciudadano
“ciudadano” means “citizen” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
citizen
Also: national, townsman
📝 In Action
Todo ciudadano mayor de edad puede votar.
A2Every adult citizen can vote.
Como ciudadano, tengo la obligación de pagar impuestos.
B1As a citizen, I have the obligation to pay taxes.
La policía buscaba al ciudadano que presenció el accidente.
B1The police were looking for the citizen who witnessed the accident.
civic
Also: citizen (adj.)
📝 In Action
Es importante promover la participación ciudadana.
B2It is important to promote civic participation.
La responsabilidad ciudadana incluye cuidar el medio ambiente.
B1Citizen responsibility includes taking care of the environment.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: ciudadano
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence correctly uses 'ciudadana' as an adjective?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin word *cīvitās*, meaning 'city' or 'state,' combined with the suffix *-anus*, which indicates belonging or origin. This literally means 'someone belonging to the city/state.'
First recorded: Medieval Spanish period (around 13th century)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'ciudadano' and 'habitante'?
A 'ciudadano' is someone who has the full legal rights and duties of membership in a country (like voting). An 'habitante' is simply someone who lives there, regardless of their legal status or nationality. All citizens are inhabitants, but not all inhabitants are citizens.
How do I form the feminine version of 'ciudadano'?
The feminine version is 'ciudadana'. This applies whether you are using it as a noun (the female citizen) or as an adjective (e.g., 'participación ciudadana').