Inklingo
← Dictionary
A group illustration featuring three diverse adults—two women and one man—who are clearly identified as teachers. They are standing near a colorful chalkboard, holding educational items like a textbook and a pointer, smiling warmly.

profesores

proh-feh-SOR-es

nounmA1
teachers?general term for people who teach,professors?university or higher education
Also:instructors?general or specialized training

📝 In Action

Los profesores de la universidad son muy exigentes.

B1

The professors at the university are very demanding.

Necesitamos más profesores de matemáticas en la escuela.

A1

We need more math teachers in the school.

Las reuniones con los profesores son el miércoles.

A2

The meetings with the teachers are on Wednesday.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • maestros (teachers (often primary school))
  • docentes (teaching staff)

Antonyms

Common Collocations

  • el cuerpo de profesores – the teaching staff
  • profesores de idiomas – language teachers

💡 Grammar Points

Plural Form

This word is the plural of 'profesor' (male teacher) and is formed by adding '-es' to the singular noun.

Generic Gender Rule

When talking about a mixed group of male and female teachers, Spanish uses the masculine plural form, 'profesores.' If the group is all female, you must use 'profesoras.'

❌ Common Pitfalls

Confusing Gender for Mixed Groups

Mistake: "Using *'las profesoras'* when referring to a group of men and women."

Correction: Use *'los profesores'* for mixed groups. The masculine plural is the default for groups.

⭐ Usage Tips

Formal vs. Informal

While 'maestro' is common for elementary school teachers, 'profesor' is the standard term for high school, college, and university instructors.

✏️ Quick Practice

💡 Quick Quiz: profesores

Question 1 of 1

If you are referring to a group of five women and one man who all teach high school, what is the correct term?

📚 More Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between 'profesores' and 'maestros'?

'Profesores' usually refers to teachers in secondary school (high school) or university. 'Maestros' often refers specifically to primary school teachers or someone who is skilled in a craft, though usage varies regionally.