negras
/NEH-gras/
black
The word negras means 'black' when describing multiple feminine nouns, like these cats.
📝 In Action
Las nubes negras anunciaban una tormenta inminente.
A1The black clouds announced an imminent storm.
Ella prefiere las faldas negras porque combinan con todo.
A2She prefers black skirts because they match everything.
💡 Grammar Points
Gender and Number Match
Remember that 'negras' is used only when describing feminine nouns that are plural (more than one), like 'mesas' (tables) or 'camisas' (shirts).
⭐ Usage Tips
Easy Transition
When you know the base word 'negro,' just add an 's' for plural and change the 'o' to an 'a' for feminine. This is a standard pattern for many Spanish adjectives.
Negras can also mean 'dark' or 'gloomy' when describing feelings or situations.
negras(adjective)
dark
?gloomy, pessimistic
grim
?outlook, circumstances
,shady
?illegal dealings (cosas negras)
📝 In Action
Tras el accidente, las perspectivas de la empresa se volvieron negras.
B2After the accident, the company's prospects turned grim/dark.
Ella siempre tiene ideas negras cuando está estresada.
B1She always has dark/pessimistic ideas when she is stressed.
💡 Grammar Points
Figurative Extension
Just like in English, the color black is often linked to negativity, sadness, or danger. Use 'negras' to describe nouns like 'ideas,' 'intenciones,' or 'noticias' when they are bad.
When used as a noun, negras refers to 'Black women'.
📝 In Action
Las negras de la comunidad organizaron una protesta pacífica.
B2The Black women of the community organized a peaceful protest.
Muchas de las protagonistas de la película eran negras.
C1Many of the movie's protagonists were Black women.
💡 Grammar Points
Adjective as Noun
In Spanish, adjectives can often stand alone as nouns when the context makes the person or thing clear. Here, 'negras' stands for 'mujeres negras' (Black women).
⭐ Usage Tips
Be Contextually Aware
While often used neutrally or affectionately in some Latin American countries, this term can be considered highly offensive or derogatory in other contexts, especially when used by outsiders. When in doubt, use a more formal phrase like 'mujeres afrodescendientes' (Afro-descendant women).
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: negras
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'negras' in its figurative sense (meaning negative or gloomy)?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'negras' and 'negros'?
'Negras' is used to describe feminine nouns (like 'camisas' or 'mujeres') that are plural. 'Negros' is used for masculine nouns (like 'pantalones' or 'hombres') that are plural. They both mean 'black'.
Is it rude to use 'negras' to refer to people?
It depends entirely on the region and the context. While it can be used neutrally as a descriptor, using it as a standalone noun can be considered informal or, in some places, offensive. In formal or sensitive situations, it is safer to use phrases like 'mujeres afrodescendientes'.