difunto
/dee-FOON-toh/
late
A white lily is often used to honor a late person, representing the memory of someone who has passed away.
difunto(adjective)
late
?referring to a person who has died
,deceased
?formal way to say dead
departed
?poetic or very formal
📝 In Action
Mi difunto abuelo era un hombre muy sabio.
B1My late grandfather was a very wise man.
Hicieron una ceremonia en honor a la difunta escritora.
B2They held a ceremony in honor of the deceased writer.
💡 Grammar Points
Matching Gender and Number
Since this word acts as a descriptor, you must change the ending to match who you are talking about: 'el difunto' (the man), 'la difunta' (the woman), 'los difuntos' (the men/group).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Using 'Muerto' vs. 'Difunto'
Mistake: "Using 'muerto' in a formal speech about a loved one."
Correction: Use 'difunto' to be more respectful. 'Muerto' is very direct and can sometimes sound blunt or cold.
⭐ Usage Tips
Respectful Tone
Use this word when you want to sound polite or when you are in a formal setting like a funeral or writing an official document.
A quiet memorial serves as a place to remember the deceased and honor their life.
difunto(noun)
the deceased
?referring to the dead person as a person
dead person
?literal description
📝 In Action
La familia del difunto recibió muchas flores.
B1The family of the deceased received many flowers.
En México, celebran el Día de los Fieles Difuntos.
B2In Mexico, they celebrate the Day of the Faithful Departed.
⭐ Usage Tips
Cultural Note
In many Spanish-speaking cultures, talking about 'los difuntos' is a way to keep their memory alive with respect, especially during holidays like November 2nd.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: difunto
Question 1 of 1
Which word is more respectful to use in an obituary?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use 'difunto' for animals?
Generally, no. 'Difunto' is reserved for human beings to show respect. For animals, 'muerto' is the standard word.
What is the female version of 'difunto'?
The female version is 'difunta.' For example, 'mi difunta abuela' (my late grandmother).