próximo
/PRÓHK-see-moh (stress on the first syllable)/
next
When referring to sequence in time, próximo means "next."
próximo(Adjective)
next
?referring to time or sequence
coming
?e.g., the coming week
,following
?in a series of steps
📝 In Action
¿Qué hacemos el próximo fin de semana?
A1What are we doing next weekend?
La próxima parada es la estación central.
A2The next stop is the central station.
Necesitas leer el próximo capítulo para mañana.
B1You need to read the following chapter for tomorrow.
💡 Grammar Points
Adjective Placement
When 'próximo' refers to the 'next' item in a sequence (time or steps), it nearly always goes before the noun it describes.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Confusing Time and Location
Mistake: "Using 'cerca' (near) when you mean 'next' in time. (e.g., 'El cerca lunes' for 'next Monday')."
Correction: Always use 'próximo/a' for future time. 'El próximo lunes.'
⭐ Usage Tips
Use with Days
Remember to use the definite article (el, la, los, las) before the phrase: 'El próximo viernes' (Next Friday).
When referring to physical distance, próximo means "nearest."
próximo(Adjective)
nearest
?physical distance
,closest
?physical distance
nearby
?in relation to something else
📝 In Action
La oficina más próxima a mi casa está cerrada.
A2The closest office to my house is closed.
Busca el punto de venta próximo a la salida.
B1Look for the sales point nearest the exit.
Estamos en la calle próxima a la iglesia.
B2We are on the street next to/nearest the church.
💡 Grammar Points
Comparing Proximity
To express 'the closest' in physical space, you often use the structure 'más próximo/a a...' (closest to...).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Mixing Location Words
Mistake: "Sometimes learners confuse 'próximo' (adjective) with the adverb 'cerca' (near)."
Correction: 'Cerca' modifies a verb ('vivir cerca'), but 'próximo' modifies a noun ('la tienda próxima').
⭐ Usage Tips
Formal Context
While 'cercano' or 'al lado de' are often used in casual conversation, 'próximo' sounds more formal or descriptive, often found in official signs or written directions.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: próximo
Question 1 of 2
Which Spanish adjective would you use to translate 'the next time we see each other'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'próximo' and 'siguiente'?
'Próximo' usually means 'the immediate next one' in time (the one coming up, the nearest one). 'Siguiente' is more about sequence, meaning 'the one that follows' in a line or list. They are often interchangeable when talking about the next item in a series, but 'próximo' emphasizes coming soon.
How does 'próximo' relate to 'cerca'?
'Cerca' is an adverb that describes *how* an action is done (e.g., 'lives near'). 'Próximo' is an adjective that describes a *thing* (e.g., 'the nearest house'). You would say 'La casa próxima' (The nearby house) or 'Ella vive cerca' (She lives nearby).