portero
/por-TEH-roh/
goalkeeper
In sports, particularly soccer, the word portero means goalkeeper.
📝 In Action
El portero atajó el penalti en el último minuto.
A2The goalkeeper saved the penalty in the last minute.
Mi hijo quiere ser portero cuando sea grande.
A1My son wants to be a goalie when he grows up.
💡 Grammar Points
Gender Change for People
Since 'portero' refers to a person, it changes form for women: 'la portera'. Remember to change the article ('el' to 'la') too.
⭐ Usage Tips
Universal Term
This term is used across all Spanish-speaking countries for the person who defends the goal in sports like football (soccer) and handball.
Portero can also refer to a doorman or building attendant, often found at the entrance of apartment buildings.
portero(noun)
doorman
?apartment building entrance
,concierge
?building staff, usually with additional duties
janitor
?In some regions, referring to a superintendent or custodian
,gatekeeper
?someone who guards an entrance or gate
📝 In Action
El portero del edificio guarda las llaves de todos los apartamentos.
A2The doorman of the building keeps the keys for all the apartments.
Tienes que hablar con el portero para que te abra la puerta principal.
B1You have to talk to the gatekeeper so he can open the main door for you.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Janitor vs. Cleaner
Mistake: "Using 'portero' for someone whose only job is cleaning."
Correction: A 'portero' usually handles maintenance, security, and access. For general cleaning staff, use 'limpiador' or 'personal de limpieza'.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: portero
Question 1 of 2
Which English translation is NOT usually appropriate for 'portero'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
¿Cuál es la forma femenina de portero? (What is the feminine form of portero?)
The feminine form is 'portera.' You would say 'la portera' for a female goalkeeper or a female doorman/concierge.
How do I know if 'portero' means a sports player or a building worker?
The context will tell you! If you hear words like 'gol' (goal), 'balón' (ball), or 'equipo' (team), it's the sports player. If you hear words like 'edificio' (building), 'llaves' (keys), or 'paquete' (package), it's the building worker.