Inklingo
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cruz

/krooz/

cross

A simple, stylized red cross shape centered on a plain background.

The shape of a cross (cruz).

cruz(noun)

fA1

cross

?

shape or symbol

Also:

crux

?

main point

,

crucifix

?

religious object

📝 In Action

Dibujó una cruz en el mapa para marcar el tesoro.

A1

He drew a cross on the map to mark the treasure.

El símbolo de la Cruz Roja es reconocido mundialmente.

A2

The Red Cross symbol is recognized worldwide.

Vimos una cruz de piedra antigua en la cima de la colina.

A2

We saw an ancient stone cross on the top of the hill.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • crucifijo (crucifix)

Common Collocations

  • Cruz Roja – Red Cross
  • Santa Cruz – Holy Cross

💡 Grammar Points

Gender Reminder

Even though 'cruz' ends in 'z' and some words ending in 'z' are masculine, 'cruz' is always feminine. Remember to use 'la cruz' or 'una cruz'.

⭐ Usage Tips

Religious Context

In many Spanish-speaking countries, the word 'cruz' carries strong cultural and religious weight, often referring specifically to the Christian cross.

A close-up illustration of the reverse side of a gold coin, showing a simple, decorative crest design and no text.

The reverse side of a coin, often called 'tails' (cruz).

cruz(noun)

fB1

tails

?

reverse side of a coin

Also:

reverse

?

back side of something

📝 In Action

Vamos a tirar una moneda: ¿cara o cruz?

B1

We are going to flip a coin: heads or tails?

Si sale cruz, tú empiezas el juego.

B1

If it lands on tails, you start the game.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • envés (reverse side)

Common Collocations

  • cara o cruz – heads or tails

💡 Grammar Points

The Coin Flip

In Spanish, the two sides of a coin are 'cara' (face/heads) and 'cruz' (cross/tails). Remember the phrase 'cara o cruz' to mean 'heads or tails'.

A small, simplified figure struggling to carry a disproportionately large and heavy, rough-hewn wooden box strapped to their back.

Carrying a heavy burden or affliction (cruz).

cruz(noun)

fB2

burden

?

affliction, hardship

,

cross to bear

?

personal difficulty

Also:

affliction

?

suffering

📝 In Action

Cada persona lleva su propia cruz en la vida.

B2

Every person carries their own cross (burden) in life.

Su enfermedad fue una cruz muy pesada para toda la familia.

C1

His illness was a very heavy cross (burden) for the whole family.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • carga (burden, load)
  • calvario (ordeal)

Common Collocations

  • llevar la cruz – to bear the burden

Idioms & Expressions

  • cargar con la cruz – to suffer a great hardship or affliction

⭐ Usage Tips

Figurative Use

This meaning is strongly linked to the religious concept of suffering. Use it when describing a long-term, painful challenge that someone must endure.

✏️ Quick Practice

💡 Quick Quiz: cruz

Question 1 of 2

Which of the following sentences uses 'cruz' in the figurative sense of a burden?

📚 More Resources

Word Family

cruzar(to cross (verb)) - verb
cruce(crossing, intersection) - noun
crucero(cruise, cruiser) - noun

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 'cruz' masculine or feminine?

'Cruz' is a feminine noun. You always use 'la cruz' or 'una cruz'.

How is 'cruz' related to the verb 'cruzar'?

'Cruz' is the noun (the cross/shape), and 'cruzar' is the verb derived from it, meaning 'to cross' or 'to go across' (like crossing a road or crossing your arms).