irregular
“irregular” means “irregular” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
irregular
Also: unconventional
📝 In Action
El verbo 'ser' es un verbo irregular en español.
A1The verb 'ser' is an irregular verb in Spanish.
Esta estrella tiene una forma irregular.
A2This star has an irregular shape.
Sigue un horario de trabajo muy irregular.
B1He follows a very irregular work schedule.
uneven, bumpy
Also: unsteady
📝 In Action
Caminar por el terreno irregular fue difícil.
B1Walking through the uneven terrain was difficult.
La pared tiene una superficie irregular.
B1The wall has a bumpy surface.
Su respiración era irregular después de correr.
B2His breathing was unsteady after running.
illegal, improper
Also: unauthorized
📝 In Action
La policía investiga una situación irregular en la empresa.
B2The police are investigating an improper situation at the company.
Muchos inmigrantes están en situación irregular.
B2Many immigrants are in an undocumented/unauthorized status.
Hubo un manejo irregular de los fondos públicos.
C1There was a mishandling of public funds.
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "irregular" in Spanish:
bumpy→illegal→improper→irregular→unauthorized→unconventional→uneven→unsteady→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: irregular
Question 1 of 3
Which sentence describes a grammar concept?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'irregularis', combining 'in-' (not) and 'regularis' (following a rule). The root 'regula' refers to a straight stick or ruler used for keeping things straight.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'irregular' change to 'irregulares'?
Yes! While it doesn't change for gender, it does change for quantity. Use 'irregular' for one thing and 'irregulares' for two or more.
Is 'irregular' a rude way to describe a person's status?
It is actually the standard technical term used in law and news to describe people whose paperwork is not currently authorized, though it should always be used with respect.
Why is the 'rr' double in 'irregular'?
It comes from the prefix 'in-' (meaning 'not') plus 'regular'. In Spanish, when 'n' meets 'r', it often transforms into 'rr' to maintain that strong rolling sound.