pionero
“pionero” means “pioneer” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
pioneer
Also: trailblazer, groundbreaker
📝 In Action
Cristóbal Colón fue un pionero en la navegación transatlántica.
B1Christopher Columbus was a pioneer in transatlantic navigation.
Este científico es un pionero de la medicina moderna.
B2This scientist is a pioneer of modern medicine.
Muchos pioneros cruzaron el continente en busca de una vida mejor.
B1Many pioneers crossed the continent in search of a better life.
pioneering
Also: groundbreaking
📝 In Action
Lanzaron un proyecto pionero para limpiar los océanos.
B2They launched a pioneering project to clean the oceans.
Es una empresa pionera en el uso de energía solar.
B1It is a pioneering company in the use of solar energy.
Su trabajo pionero cambió la forma en que entendemos el cerebro.
C1His groundbreaking work changed the way we understand the brain.
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "pionero" in Spanish:
groundbreaker→groundbreaking→pioneer→pioneering→trailblazer→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: pionero
Question 1 of 3
If you describe a feminine noun like 'la investigación' (the research) as groundbreaking, which form do you use?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Old French word 'pionnier', which originally referred to a foot soldier who cleared the way for the army. This came from 'pion', meaning 'pawn' or 'foot soldier'.
First recorded: 19th century (in its modern sense)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'pionero' only for history books?
Not at all! You will hear it every day in news about technology, science, and even fashion to describe people or companies that are doing something for the first time.
Can I use 'pionero' to mean I'm first in a line?
No, that's a common trap. If you are first in a physical sequence or list, use 'primero'. Use 'pionero' for innovation or exploration.
How do I make 'pionero' plural?
Simply add an 's'. Use 'pioneros' for a group of men or a mixed group, and 'pioneras' for a group of only women.