extraordinario
“extraordinario” means “extraordinary” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
extraordinary, amazing
Also: wonderful, fantastic
📝 In Action
La cocinera preparó un postre extraordinario para la cena.
A2The cook prepared an extraordinary dessert for dinner.
Tienes una habilidad extraordinaria para resolver problemas difíciles.
B1You have an amazing ability to solve difficult problems.
Fue un concierto extraordinario; aplaudimos durante diez minutos.
B1It was a wonderful concert; we applauded for ten minutes.
special, unscheduled
Also: non-regular
📝 In Action
Tuvimos una reunión extraordinaria para discutir la crisis financiera.
B2We had a special (unscheduled) meeting to discuss the financial crisis.
Los gastos extraordinarios de este mes superaron el presupuesto.
C1The non-regular expenses this month exceeded the budget.
Se convocó a una sesión extraordinaria del congreso para votar la ley.
C1An extraordinary (special) session of congress was called to vote on the law.
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "extraordinario" in Spanish:
amazing→extraordinary→fantastic→non-regular→special→supplementary→unscheduled→wonderful→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: extraordinario
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'extraordinario' to mean 'unscheduled' rather than 'amazing'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
This word comes from the Latin phrase *extra ordinem*, meaning 'outside the order' or 'beyond the usual rule.' This perfectly captures both Spanish meanings: something amazing (beyond the usual standard) and something unscheduled (beyond the usual routine).
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'extraordinario' ever function as a noun?
Yes, although less commonly, you might hear 'un extraordinario' (masculine noun) used in some regions or contexts to refer to a special bonus payment or a special edition of a newspaper.
Is 'extraordinario' stronger than 'increíble'?
'Extraordinario' often implies a higher level of quality or rarity—something truly exceptional that happens 'outside the ordinary.' 'Increíble' (incredible) is a common synonym for general amazement.

