ligero
“ligero” means “light” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
light
Also: lightweight
📝 In Action
Este equipaje de mano es muy ligero.
A1This carry-on luggage is very light.
Quiero una cena ligera esta noche.
A2I want a light dinner tonight (not heavy food).
fast
Also: quick, agile
📝 In Action
Es un corredor muy ligero; ganó la carrera fácilmente.
B1He is a very fast runner; he won the race easily.
Necesitamos tomar una decisión ligera sobre esto.
B2We need to make a quick decision about this.
slight
Also: superficial, minor
📝 In Action
El doctor dijo que la herida era muy ligera y sanaría pronto.
B2The doctor said the wound was very slight and would heal soon.
Tuve un sueño ligero, me desperté varias veces.
C1I had a light sleep (not deep sleep); I woke up several times.
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "ligero" in Spanish:
agile→fast→light→lightweight→minor→quick→slight→superficial→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: ligero
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'ligero' to mean 'quick' or 'fast'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Old Spanish word 'liegero', which itself developed from the Latin word *leviarius*, meaning 'that which belongs to lightness' (related to *levis*, meaning 'light').
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if 'ligero' means 'light in weight' or 'fast'?
The context usually makes it clear. If you are talking about an object (like a suitcase or a shirt), it means 'light in weight.' If you are talking about movement, speed, or a vehicle, it usually means 'fast' or 'agile.' If you are talking about an injury or sleep, it means 'minor' or 'superficial'.
Can I use 'ligero' to describe a light color?
No, that is a common mistake. In Spanish, you must use 'claro' (e.g., 'azul claro' for light blue) to describe color. 'Ligero' is reserved for weight, speed, or seriousness.