espíritus
/es-PÍ-ri-tus/
spirits
In this sense, 'espíritus' refers to supernatural entities or ghosts.
espíritus(noun)
spirits
?ghosts or supernatural entities
,ghosts
?apparitions
phantoms
?literary use for spirits
📝 In Action
En la noche de Halloween, la gente cuenta historias de espíritus y fantasmas.
B1On Halloween night, people tell stories of spirits and ghosts.
Los chamanes creen poder comunicarse con los espíritus de la naturaleza.
B2Shamans believe they can communicate with the spirits of nature.
💡 Grammar Points
Masculine Plural
Even though this word refers to non-physical beings, it is always treated as masculine: 'los espíritus' (the spirits).
⭐ Usage Tips
Singular vs. Plural
The singular form is 'espíritu'. Use 'espíritus' only when referring to multiple entities or a collective group of ghosts/beings.
When referring to a mood or emotional state, 'espíritus' translates to morale or spirits.
📝 In Action
Los espíritus estaban altos después de la victoria.
B2Spirits were high after the victory.
Necesitamos levantar los espíritus del equipo antes del partido final.
C1We need to lift the team's spirits before the final game.
💡 Grammar Points
Using 'Estar'
When talking about temporary mood or morale, this noun is often paired with the verb 'estar' (to be) to describe the current condition: 'Los espíritus estaban altos' (The spirits were high).
⭐ Usage Tips
Formal Context
Using 'espíritus' to mean 'morale' is slightly more formal or literary than using the synonym 'ánimos'.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: espíritus
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'espíritus' to mean 'morale' or 'mood'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'espíritus' and 'almas'?
Both mean 'spirits' or 'souls.' 'Almas' (souls) generally refers to the immortal part of a person, often in a religious sense. 'Espíritus' can mean souls, but more often refers to the non-physical essence, ghosts, or collective morale.