estadounidense
/es-ta-doh-oo-nee-DEN-seh/
US
Estadounidense can be used as an adjective meaning 'US' or 'belonging to the United States'.
📝 In Action
La bandera estadounidense tiene estrellas y franjas.
A2The US flag has stars and stripes.
Necesito un visado para trabajar en territorio estadounidense.
B1I need a visa to work in US territory.
💡 Grammar Points
Always the Same Form
Unlike most Spanish adjectives, 'estadounidense' does not change its ending based on whether the noun is masculine or feminine (e.g., 'la cultura estadounidense', 'el gobierno estadounidense').
Making it Plural
To talk about multiple things, just add an 's' at the end: 'las costumbres estadounidenses' (the US customs).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Confusing 'Americano'
Mistake: "Using 'americano' as an adjective for 'US' things."
Correction: While sometimes used informally, 'americano' officially means 'of the Americas' (North, Central, or South). Use 'estadounidense' for clarity to mean 'of the U.S.'.
⭐ Usage Tips
Use with Care
If you are talking about something belonging to the entire continent, use 'americano'. If you are specifically talking about the United States, use 'estadounidense'—it is the most respectful and accurate term.
As a noun, estadounidense means 'American', referring to a person from the U.S.
📝 In Action
Ella es estadounidense, pero vive en México.
A2She is American (a US citizen), but she lives in Mexico.
Los estadounidenses celebran el Día de la Independencia en julio.
A2Americans celebrate Independence Day in July.
💡 Grammar Points
Gender and Articles
The word itself doesn't change, but you use the correct article (the little word before the noun) to show gender: 'el estadounidense' (male) or 'la estadounidense' (female).
⭐ Usage Tips
The Plural Form
To talk about a group of people, just add an 's': 'los estadounidenses' (the Americans).
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: estadounidense
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'estadounidense' as an adjective?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'americano' acceptable instead of 'estadounidense'?
While 'americano' is sometimes used informally, especially by people from the U.S. themselves, it can be confusing or even offensive in many Spanish-speaking countries. 'Americano' technically means 'of the entire continent of America.' Always use 'estadounidense' for clarity and politeness when referring specifically to people or things from the United States.
Does 'estadounidense' change for men and women?
No, the word itself is 'invariable,' meaning it always stays the same regardless of gender. You only change the article (the little word before it): 'el estadounidense' (male) and 'la estadounidense' (female).