excelencia
“excelencia” means “excellence” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
excellence, superiority
Also: distinction, high quality
📝 In Action
El chef siempre busca la excelencia en sus platos.
B1The chef always seeks excellence in his dishes.
Su presentación fue de una excelencia inigualable.
B2Her presentation was of unmatched excellence.
La universidad es conocida por su excelencia académica.
B2The university is known for its academic excellence.
Excellency
📝 In Action
Su Excelencia, el presidente, ha llegado al evento.
C1His Excellency, the president, has arrived at the event.
Por favor, diríjase a Su Excelencia con respeto.
C1Please address His/Her Excellency with respect.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: excelencia
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'excelencia' to describe a person's achievement?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes directly from the Latin word *excellentia*, which meant 'superiority' or 'pre-eminence.' The meaning has remained stable since it entered Spanish.
First recorded: Medieval Latin period
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'excelencia' and 'excelente'?
'Excelencia' is a noun, meaning the state of being great (like 'quality' or 'superiority'). 'Excelente' is the adjective, meaning great or outstanding. You use 'excelente' to describe things ('un trabajo excelente') and 'excelencia' as the goal or result ('la búsqueda de la excelencia').
Can I use 'excelencia' to talk about food or simple things?
Yes, but it sounds formal. While you *can* say 'la excelencia de este café,' it's more common and natural to use the adjective 'excelente' ('Este café es excelente'). Reserve 'excelencia' for more abstract concepts like art, academics, or service.