preciosa
“preciosa” means “beautiful” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
beautiful, lovely
Also: gorgeous, cute
📝 In Action
Tu hija es muy preciosa y tiene una sonrisa brillante.
A2Your daughter is very beautiful and has a bright smile.
¡Qué casa tan preciosa! Me encanta el jardín.
B1What a lovely house! I love the garden.
precious, vital
Also: costly
📝 In Action
Ella perdió una oportunidad preciosa por llegar tarde.
B2She lost a precious opportunity because she arrived late.
Esta documentación es preciosa para el éxito del proyecto.
C1This documentation is vital/precious for the success of the project.
darling, sweetheart
Also: dear
📝 In Action
Hola, mi preciosa. ¿Cómo te fue el día?
B1Hello, my darling. How was your day?
Gracias por la ayuda, preciosa.
B2Thank you for the help, sweetheart.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: preciosa
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'preciosa' as a noun (a term of endearment)?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from the Latin term *pretiosus*, meaning 'of great value' or 'costly.' Over time, this concept of high value was applied to beauty, leading to the meaning 'beautiful' we use today.
First recorded: 13th century (in Romance languages)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
When should I use 'preciosa' instead of 'precioso'?
You use 'preciosa' when you are describing a feminine noun (a word that ends in -a, like 'mesa' or 'vista') or when referring to a female person. You use 'precioso' for masculine nouns or male people (like 'regalo' or 'amigo').
Is 'preciosa' stronger than 'bonita' or 'linda'?
Yes, 'preciosa' is generally stronger and more enthusiastic than 'bonita' (pretty) or 'linda' (nice/cute). It suggests exceptional beauty or high value.