parecido
“parecido” means “similar” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
similar, alike
Also: like
📝 In Action
Tu coche es parecido al mío, pero el color es diferente.
A1Your car is similar to mine, but the color is different.
Las dos ideas son muy parecidas, casi idénticas.
A2The two ideas are very similar, almost identical.
Ella y su hermana son increíblemente parecidas.
A2She and her sister are incredibly alike.
resemblance, similarity
Also: likeness
📝 In Action
Hay un gran parecido entre padre e hijo, sobre todo en los ojos.
B1There is a great resemblance between father and son, especially in the eyes.
Si ves a alguien con un parecido a mí, salúdalo.
B2If you see someone who looks like me (a likeness), say hello to them.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: parecido
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence correctly uses 'parecido' as a noun?
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👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
'Parecido' comes from the verb 'parecer' (to seem or appear). This verb traces back to the Latin word *parēscere*, meaning 'to become visible' or 'to appear,' which itself is related to *par*, meaning 'equal.' The core idea is that two things are 'equal-looking' or 'appearing the same.'
First recorded: 13th century (as 'parecer')
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'parecido' and 'similar'?
They are synonyms and often interchangeable! 'Similar' is sometimes considered slightly more formal or abstract (used for concepts), while 'parecido' is very common in everyday speech, especially for physical resemblance.
Is 'parecido' related to the verb 'parecer'?
Yes. 'Parecido' is actually the past participle of the verb 'parecer' (to seem). When you use 'parecido' as an adjective, you are essentially saying that something 'has seemed' or 'has appeared' like something else.