obsequio
“obsequio” means “gift” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
gift
Also: complimentary item, token of appreciation
📝 In Action
Por favor, acepte este pequeño obsequio como muestra de nuestra gratitud.
B1Please accept this small gift as a token of our gratitude.
Con la compra de su perfume, recibirá un obsequio sorpresa.
A2With the purchase of your perfume, you will receive a surprise gift.
El embajador entregó un obsequio al presidente durante la ceremonia.
C1The ambassador handed a gift to the president during the ceremony.
I gift
Also: I present
📝 In Action
Yo le obsequio este libro porque sé que le gusta la historia.
B1I am gifting you this book because I know you like history.
Cada año, obsequio flores a mi madre en su cumpleaños.
B1Every year, I gift flowers to my mother on her birthday.
Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Indicative
Preterite
Imperfect
Present
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: obsequio
Question 1 of 3
Which of these is the most common and informal synonym for 'obsequio'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'obsequium', which originally meant 'compliance' or 'service'. Over time, the idea of doing a service for someone turned into the idea of giving them a gift.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'obsequio' only used for expensive gifts?
Not necessarily, but because the word is formal, it is often used for significant presents, official gifts, or complimentary items from businesses.
Can I use 'obsequio' to mean a 'talent' like in English?
No. In English we say someone has a 'gift for music,' but in Spanish, 'obsequio' only means a physical present. For talents, use the word 'don' or 'talento'.
What is the difference between 'regalo' and 'obsequio'?
'Regalo' is friendly and common. 'Obsequio' is more elegant, formal, and often used in stores or business settings.