A simple storybook illustration of a distressed character sitting down with their head buried in their hands, depicting worry.

preocupados

preh-oh-koo-PAH-dohs

AdjectivemA2

worried?feeling anxiety or concern,concerned?showing care or interest in a problem

Also:anxious?describing a state of nervousness

📝 In Action

Los padres están muy preocupados por el futuro de sus hijos.

The parents are very worried about their children's future.

Mis vecinos se veían preocupados después de la tormenta.

My neighbors looked concerned after the storm.

¿Por qué están tan preocupados por un examen tan fácil?

Why are you guys so worried about such an easy exam?

Word Connections

Synonyms

inquietos (restless / uneasy)
nerviosos (nervous)

Antonyms

tranquilos (calm)
relajados (relaxed)

Common Collocations

estar preocupados por – to be worried about
parecer preocupados – to seem worried

💡 Grammar Points

Masculine Plural Form

This word ends in -os, meaning it is describing multiple people (plural). It is used for groups that are all male, or groups containing both males and females.

Using 'Estar'

You almost always use 'preocupados' with the verb 'estar' (to be) because being worried is a temporary feeling or emotional state.

❌ Common Pitfalls

Forgetting Agreement

Mistake: "Los amigos está preocupado."

Correction: Los amigos están preocupados. Remember that both the verb ('estar') and the adjective ('preocupados') must match the plural subject ('Los amigos').

⭐ Usage Tips

Worrying 'About'

To say what people are worried about, always use the preposition 'por' immediately after 'preocupados': 'preocupados por la noticia' (worried about the news).

✏️ Quick Practice

💡 Quick Quiz: preocupados

Question 1 of 2

If you are describing two female friends who are worried, which form should you use?

📚 More Resources

Word Family

preocupar(to worry (verb)) - verb

preocupación(worry / concern (noun)) - noun

preocupada(worried (feminine singular)) - adjective

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between 'preocupados' and 'preocupadas'?

'Preocupados' is the masculine plural form, used for groups of men or mixed-gender groups. 'Preocupadas' is the feminine plural form, used only when describing a group of women.

Can I use 'preocupados' with the verb 'ser'?

It's rare. While technically possible, using 'ser' implies that being worried is a permanent, defining characteristic, which usually isn't the case. Always stick to 'estar' (e.g., 'Están preocupados') unless you are talking about chronic anxiety.