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raza

/RAH-sah/

race

A colorful illustration of three simple, stylized human figures standing together, showcasing different skin tones and hair textures, symbolizing a human group or race.

When referring to human groups, 'raza' translates to race, emphasizing shared physical characteristics.

raza(noun)

fB2

race

?

human group (use with caution)

,

ethnic group

?

preferred term in many contexts

📝 In Action

La diversidad de razas en la ciudad es impresionante.

B2

The diversity of ethnic groups in the city is impressive.

El museo celebra la historia de todas las razas.

C1

The museum celebrates the history of all races/ethnicities.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • etnia (ethnicity)
  • pueblo (people, community)

Common Collocations

  • diversidad de razas – racial/ethnic diversity
  • origen racial – racial origin

💡 Grammar Points

Always Feminine

Remember to use the feminine article 'la' or 'una' with 'raza': 'la raza humana' (the human race).

⭐ Usage Tips

Modern Usage Note

In Spanish, particularly in academic or political discourse, 'etnia' (ethnicity) is often preferred over 'raza' when referring to human groups, as 'raza' can carry historical baggage related to outdated biological classifications.

A simple storybook illustration showing two very different types of dogs, a small brown chihuahua and a large fluffy white poodle, standing near each other.

When discussing animals, 'raza' means breed, distinguishing different types within a species.

raza(noun)

fA2

breed

?

type of animal

Also:

stock

?

lineage of animals

,

variety

?

type of plant

📝 In Action

Mi perro es de raza pequeña.

A2

My dog is a small breed.

¿Qué raza de caballo prefieres para montar?

B1

What breed of horse do you prefer for riding?

Word Connections

Synonyms

Common Collocations

  • pura raza – purebred
  • raza mixta – mixed breed

💡 Grammar Points

Pura Raza

To describe an animal as a purebred, use the phrase 'de pura raza' or just 'pura raza' as an adjective, which always stays feminine to match 'raza'.

A simple storybook illustration showing three stylized figures of descending size, representing a grandparent, parent, and child, connected by a stylized root structure at their base, symbolizing lineage.

'Raza' can also refer to lineage or family stock, highlighting one's ancestral background.

raza(noun)

fC1

lineage

?

family background/stock

,

quality

?

inherent characteristic

Also:

character

?

inherent nature

📝 In Action

Ese vino tiene una raza excelente; es de la mejor cosecha.

C1

That wine has an excellent quality/character; it's from the best harvest.

Demostró la raza de un verdadero campeón al no rendirse.

C2

He showed the mettle (lineage/quality) of a true champion by not giving up.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • casta (caste, lineage)
  • calidad (quality)

Common Collocations

  • tener raza – to have quality/mettle

⭐ Usage Tips

Figurative Use

When used for objects like wine or people's spirit, 'raza' implies an inherited superior quality or strength of character, like having 'good stock'.

✏️ Quick Practice

💡 Quick Quiz: raza

Question 1 of 2

Which meaning of 'raza' is used when talking about a specific type of dog?

📚 More Resources

Word Family

racial(racial) - adjective
mestizaje(mixing of races/cultures) - noun

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 'raza' the best word to use when talking about human groups?

While 'raza' is understood, many Spanish speakers prefer 'etnia' (ethnicity) or 'origen' (origin) when discussing human heritage or groups, as 'raza' can sometimes be associated with outdated or problematic concepts.

Does 'raza' have a masculine form?

No, 'raza' is always a feminine noun, regardless of what it refers to. You must use 'la raza' or 'una raza'.