ideal
/ee-deh-AHL/
ideal
When something is ideal (adjective), it is perfectly suited for the purpose.
ideal(adjective)
ideal
?perfectly suited
,perfect
?optimal
best
?most suitable
,dream
?as in 'dream job'
📝 In Action
Esta casa tiene la ubicación ideal para mí.
A2This house has the ideal location for me.
Ella encontró el trabajo ideal después de graduarse.
B1She found the perfect job after graduating.
Para un picnic, un día soleado es ideal.
A2For a picnic, a sunny day is ideal.
💡 Grammar Points
Adjective Agreement (Easy)
Unlike many Spanish adjectives, 'ideal' always stays the same regardless of whether the noun is masculine or feminine (e.g., 'el coche ideal,' 'la casa ideal').
❌ Common Pitfalls
Gender Change
Mistake: "La situación ideala."
Correction: La situación ideal. The ending of 'ideal' does not change to match feminine nouns.
⭐ Usage Tips
Placement
Like most descriptive adjectives, 'ideal' usually goes after the noun it describes: 'el lugar ideal' (the ideal place).
An ideal (noun) is a perfect standard or goal that people strive to achieve.
ideal(noun)
ideal
?a perfect standard or goal
,principle
?a moral goal
aspiration
?a strong desire or goal
📝 In Action
Luchar por un ideal de justicia social es importante.
B2Fighting for an ideal of social justice is important.
Su ideal de vida era simple: paz y tranquilidad.
C1His life's ideal was simple: peace and quiet.
💡 Grammar Points
The Abstract Noun
When used as a noun, 'el ideal' refers to an abstract concept of perfection or a high standard, usually requiring the masculine article 'el' or 'un'.
⭐ Usage Tips
Formal Contexts
Use the noun form 'el ideal' primarily when discussing philosophy, ethics, politics, or deep personal aspirations.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: ideal
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'ideal' as an adjective?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'ideal' change its ending for masculine and feminine nouns?
No, 'ideal' is one of the few adjectives that is 'invariable' for gender, meaning it works for both masculine and feminine nouns without changing its ending (e.g., 'el regalo ideal' and 'la vida ideal').
When do I use 'el ideal' (noun) versus 'ideal' (adjective)?
Use 'ideal' as an adjective when describing a thing (e.g., 'the ideal temperature'). Use 'el ideal' as a noun when talking about a high standard, a goal, or a perfect concept (e.g., 'He lives according to his ideals').