Inklingo

preciosos

preh-SYOH-sohs/pɾeˈsjosos/

preciosos means beautiful in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:

beautiful, gorgeous

Also: lovely, cute
A vibrant butterfly with colorful patterns on its wings resting on a bright flower.

📝 In Action

Tus hijos son preciosos.

A1

Your children are gorgeous.

Compré unos cuadros preciosos para el salón.

A2

I bought some beautiful paintings for the living room.

¡Qué ojos más preciosos tienes!

A1

What gorgeous eyes you have!

Word Connections

Synonyms

Antonyms

Common Collocations

  • ojos preciososgorgeous eyes
  • paisajes preciososbeautiful landscapes
  • recuerdos preciososlovely memories

precious

Also: valuable
AdjectivemB1formal
A collection of shiny gold bars and sparkling gemstones.

📝 In Action

El platino es uno de los metales preciosos más raros.

B1

Platinum is one of the rarest precious metals.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • valiosos (valuable)

Common Collocations

  • metales preciososprecious metals

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: preciosos

Question 1 of 2

If you are looking at a group of five male models, which word should you use?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family
🎵 Rhymes
📚 Etymology

From the Latin word 'pretiosus,' which originally meant 'valuable' or 'costly.' Over time, it evolved in Spanish to describe things so perfect they seem 'priceless.'

First recorded: 13th century

Cognates (Related words)

English: preciousFrench: précieux

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use 'preciosos' for a group of only women?

No. For a group of only women, you should use 'preciosas.' Use 'preciosos' for a group of only men or a mixed group of men and women.

Is 'preciosos' too formal for friends?

Not at all! It's very common and sounds very warm and enthusiastic. It's a great way to compliment a friend's new shoes or their children.