posada
/po-SAH-dah/
inn
A 'posada' can be a small inn or a cozy place to stay.
posada(noun)
inn
?a place to stay
,guesthouse
?traditional lodging
shelter
?a place to rest
,lodging
?general accommodation
📝 In Action
Buscamos una posada para pasar la noche.
A1We are looking for an inn to spend the night.
La posada del pueblo es muy acogedora.
A2The town's guesthouse is very cozy.
💡 Grammar Points
Always Feminine
This word is always feminine, so use 'la' or 'una' before it.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Posada vs. Hotel
Mistake: "Using 'posada' for a large, modern building."
Correction: Use 'hotel' for modern places and 'posada' for smaller, traditional, or rustic places.
⭐ Usage Tips
The Feeling of 'Posada'
Think of a 'posada' as more charming and homey than a big chain hotel. It often implies a historical or rural setting.
In many cultures, 'posada' refers to a traditional Christmas party or celebration.
📝 In Action
Mañana tenemos la posada de la oficina.
A2Tomorrow we have the office Christmas party.
Los niños cantan villancicos durante la posada.
B1The children sing carols during the Christmas procession.
💡 Grammar Points
Plural Usage
When talking about the whole holiday season, you'll often hear it in the plural: 'Las Posadas'.
⭐ Usage Tips
Cultural Context
In Mexico, 'Las Posadas' happen from December 16th to 24th. It commemorates Mary and Joseph looking for a place to stay.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: posada
Question 1 of 1
If you are in Mexico in mid-December and someone invites you to a 'posada', what should you expect?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'hostal' and 'posada'?
A 'hostal' is usually a budget-friendly place, often like a hostel. A 'posada' is typically more traditional, historic, or rural, similar to a cozy country inn.
Is 'posada' only used for Christmas?
No. While it is a very famous Christmas tradition, the word also literally means an 'inn' or a place to stay year-round.