francos
“francos” means “frank” in Spanish. It has 4 different meanings depending on context:
frank, outspoken
Also: candid
📝 In Action
Fueron muy francos al criticar la propuesta del jefe.
B1They were very frank in criticizing the boss's proposal.
Necesitamos comentarios francos para poder mejorar el servicio.
B2We need honest feedback so we can improve the service.
free, off
Also: exempt
📝 In Action
Los fines de semana son días francos para la mayoría de los empleados.
B2Weekends are free days (days off) for most employees.
Estos productos están francos de impuestos.
C1These products are exempt from taxes.
francs
📝 In Action
Necesitas cambiar tu dinero a francos suizos antes de cruzar la frontera.
A2You need to change your money to Swiss francs before crossing the border.
El precio de la entrada es de cincuenta francos.
B1The price of the ticket is fifty francs.
the Franks
📝 In Action
Los francos se establecieron en lo que hoy es Francia y Alemania.
C1The Franks settled in what is now France and Germany.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: francos
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'francos' to mean 'money'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from the Late Latin word *francus*, which referred to the Frankish people. Because the Franks were considered 'free' and exempt from certain taxes in the Roman Empire, the meaning evolved to describe anyone or anything that was 'free' or 'unrestricted' (honest, exempt). The currency 'franc' takes its name from this same root.
First recorded: 12th century (in Spanish)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if 'francos' means 'honest' or 'currency'?
Look at the words around it. If it follows a number ('cien francos') or is used with money-related verbs ('cambiar a francos'), it's the currency. If it follows the verb 'ser' (to be) or describes communication ('comentarios francos'), it means honest or frank.
Can I use 'francos' to mean 'free' like 'free to go'?
No, not usually for people. When referring to people being free to do something, use 'libres'. 'Francos' is reserved for things that are free from obligation, like a tax exemption or a day off work.