potable
“potable” means “drinkable” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
drinkable, safe to drink
Also: fresh
📝 In Action
El agua del grifo en esta ciudad es potable.
A1The tap water in this city is safe to drink.
¿Sabes si hay alguna fuente de agua potable por aquí?
A2Do you know if there is a drinking water fountain around here?
Muchos países luchan por el acceso al agua potable.
B1Many countries struggle for access to clean drinking water.
passable, decent
Also: acceptable
📝 In Action
La película no es una obra maestra, pero es potable.
B2The movie isn't a masterpiece, but it's decent.
El examen me salió potable, creo que voy a aprobar.
B2The exam went okay for me; I think I'll pass.
Buscamos un candidato que sea medianamente potable para el puesto.
C1We are looking for a candidate who is somewhat acceptable for the position.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: potable
Question 1 of 3
If you see a sign that says 'Agua No Potable,' what should you do?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'potabilis,' which means 'drinkable.' This comes from the root 'potare,' which simply means 'to drink.'
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'potable' used for milk or juice?
Technically, any safe-to-drink liquid is potable, but in Spanish, we almost exclusively use it for water (agua potable) or in a figurative sense for quality (una película potable).
What is the difference between 'bebible' and 'potable'?
'Bebible' just means it's possible to swallow it or it tastes okay. 'Potable' specifically implies it has been treated or checked and is medically safe to consume.
Does the word 'potable' change for plural?
Yes! Just like most adjectives ending in 'e', you simply add an 's'. For example: 'aguas potables'.