concepto

/kon-SEP-toh/

concept

A person standing next to a large, clear thought bubble containing a perfectly formed, foundational geometric cube, symbolizing a general idea.

This image represents 'concepto' as a general idea or principle (concept).

concepto(noun)

mA2

concept

a general idea or principle

Also:

idea

a mental representation

notion

a general understanding

📝 In Action

El concepto de la libertad es complejo.

The concept of freedom is complex.

Necesitas entender el concepto clave antes de continuar.

You need to understand the key concept before continuing.

Su nuevo proyecto tiene un concepto muy original.

Their new project has a very original concept.

Word Connections

Synonyms

idea (idea)
noción (notion)

Common Collocations

concepto abstracto – abstract concept
concepto erróneo – mistaken concept / misconception

💡 Grammar Points

Masculine Noun Rule

Remember that 'concepto' is always masculine, even though it ends in '-o.' Use 'el' or 'un' with it: 'el concepto'.

❌ Common Pitfalls

Using 'la' instead of 'el'

Mistake: "La concepto"

Correction: El concepto. Treat it like a male word.

⭐ Usage Tips

Conceptualizing

When you want to say that something is 'conceptual,' use the related adjective 'conceptual' (e.g., 'diseño conceptual').

Two simple, stylized characters looking at a brightly colored apple between them. One character is giving a thumbs up, and the other is giving a clear thumbs down, illustrating differing personal views.

This image represents 'concepto' as a personal view or judgment (opinion).

concepto(noun)

mB1

opinion

personal view or judgment

Also:

regard

respect or estimation

assessment

formal evaluation (less common)

📝 In Action

Tengo un buen concepto de tu trabajo.

I have a high opinion of your work. (Literally: I have a good concept of your work.)

No quiero que la gente tenga un mal concepto de mí.

I don't want people to have a bad opinion of me.

Mi jefe me dio un concepto favorable en la evaluación.

My boss gave me a favorable assessment in the review.

Word Connections

Synonyms

opinión (opinion)
juicio (judgment)

Common Collocations

tener buen concepto de – to have a good opinion of / to think highly of
formar un concepto – to form an opinion

💡 Grammar Points

The 'Assessment' Phrase

When using 'concepto' to mean 'opinion,' you almost always need the verb 'tener' (to have) followed by 'de' (of): 'Tengo un buen concepto de él' (I think highly of him).

⭐ Usage Tips

Formal vs. Informal

Using 'concepto' in this way (as 'opinion') is slightly more formal or professional than just saying 'opinión'.

✏️ Quick Practice

💡 Quick Quiz: concepto

Question 1 of 1

Which sentence uses 'concepto' to mean 'opinion' or 'regard'?

📚 More Resources

Word Family

conceptual(conceptual) - adjective

conceptuar(to conceptualize) - verb

Frequently Asked Questions

¿Cuál es la diferencia entre 'concepto' e 'idea'?

While often interchangeable, 'concepto' usually refers to a mental image or principle that is abstract and complex (like 'justice' or 'time'). 'Idea' is more general and can refer to a plan, a suggestion, or a simpler thought.

How do I say 'I conceptualize'?

You would use the related verb 'conceptuar': 'Yo conceptualizo' (I conceptualize). However, it is often more natural to say 'formar un concepto' (to form a concept).