recreo
“recreo” means “recess” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
recess, break
Also: playtime
📝 In Action
Los niños juegan al fútbol en el recreo.
A1The children play soccer at recess.
Nos vemos en el patio durante el recreo.
A2We'll see each other in the courtyard during the break.
El profesor vigila a los alumnos en la hora del recreo.
B1The teacher watches the students during break time.
recreation, enjoyment
📝 In Action
Lee novelas para su propio recreo.
B2He reads novels for his own enjoyment.
La ciudad ofrece muchos lugares para el recreo de los ciudadanos.
C1The city offers many places for the recreation of its citizens.
I recreate, I entertain/amuse
Also: I reenact
📝 In Action
Yo recreo la escena de la película en mi jardín.
B1I recreate the movie scene in my garden.
Me recreo con la música clásica.
B2I enjoy myself/find pleasure with classical music.
Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Indicative
Preterite
Imperfect
Present
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "recreo" in Spanish:
break→enjoyment→i recreate→i reenact→playtime→recess→recreation→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: recreo
Question 1 of 3
Which sentence refers to a school break?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'recreare', which means 'to create again' or 'to refresh'. It was formed by 're-' (again) and 'creare' (to create).
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'recreo' only for kids?
While most commonly used for school children, it can also refer to a general leisure area ('zona de recreo') for people of all ages.
Can I use 'recreo' for a 5-minute work break?
It's better to use 'descanso' or 'pausa' for professional breaks. 'Recreo' implies play and a longer period of time.
Is 'recreo' the same as 'hobby'?
Not exactly. While it can mean recreation, for personal hobbies, Spanish speakers usually say 'pasatiempo' or 'afición'.