latente
“latente” means “latent” in Spanish (present but not visible or active).
latent
Also: dormant, underlying
📝 In Action
Hay un conflicto latente entre los dos socios que podría estallar en cualquier momento.
B2There is a latent conflict between the two partners that could explode at any moment.
El virus puede permanecer latente en el cuerpo durante muchos años sin causar síntomas.
B2The virus can remain dormant in the body for many years without causing symptoms.
Ella tiene un talento latente para la pintura que nunca ha explorado.
C1She has an underlying talent for painting that she has never explored.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: latente
Question 1 of 3
What does a 'problema latente' mean?
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👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'latens', which means 'to be hidden' or 'to lurk'.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'latente' a common word in daily conversation?
Not really. It is a bit formal. You'll hear it in the news, in biology class, or when doctors talk, but in casual chat with friends, people might just say 'oculto' (hidden).
Does 'latente' have a past tense?
No, it is an adjective, so it doesn't have tenses. It only has one form that works for both men and women, but it does have a plural form: 'latentes'.
What is the difference between 'oculto' and 'latente'?
'Oculto' simply means hidden (like a key behind a door). 'Latente' usually implies that the thing is hidden but could become active or 'wake up' later (like a talent or a disease).