madrugada
mah-droo-GAH-dah
📝 In Action
Me gusta estudiar de madrugada porque todo está en silencio.
A2I like to study in the early morning because everything is silent.
El tren sale a las tres de la madrugada.
A2The train leaves at three in the morning.
Trabajamos hasta la madrugada para terminar el proyecto.
B1We worked until the wee hours to finish the project.
💡 Grammar Points
Using 'de' with Madrugada
When you want to say 'in the early morning,' use the phrase 'de madrugada' rather than 'en la madrugada.'
Feminine Noun
This word is feminine, so always use 'la' or 'una' with it (e.g., 'la madrugada').
❌ Common Pitfalls
Madrugada vs. Mañana
Mistake: "Using 'mañana' for 3:00 AM."
Correction: Use 'madrugada' for the hours between midnight and sunrise. 'Mañana' is usually for the time between sunrise and lunch.
⭐ Usage Tips
Cultural Note
In many Spanish-speaking cultures, social events often last until the 'madrugada.' It is perfectly normal to say you are going home at 4:00 AM 'de madrugada.'
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: madrugada
Question 1 of 1
If someone says they are leaving at 'las dos de la madrugada,' what time is it?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
When exactly does 'madrugada' start and end?
There is no official clock time, but it generally starts at midnight (12:00 AM) and ends when the sun rises (around 6:00 or 7:00 AM).
Can I use 'madrugada' to mean 'tomorrow'?
No. While 'mañana' can mean both 'morning' and 'tomorrow,' 'madrugada' only refers to the early morning time period.