resfriado
/ress-free-AH-doh/
cold
A common cold is often treated with rest, tea, and tissues.
📝 In Action
Tengo un resfriado muy fuerte.
A1I have a very bad cold.
El resfriado me quita el hambre.
A2The cold takes away my appetite.
💡 Grammar Points
Using 'Have' vs 'Be'
In Spanish, you 'have' (tener) a cold. Just like in English, you use the noun form with 'un' (a cold).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Cold vs. Constipated
Mistake: "Using 'constipado' to mean 'constipated'."
Correction: In Spain, 'constipado' is another word for a cold. If you mean 'constipated' in a bathroom sense, use 'estreñido'.
⭐ Usage Tips
Is it a cold or the flu?
Use 'resfriado' for minor sniffles and sneezes. If you have a fever and body aches, use 'gripe' (flu).
A person who is feeling 'resfriado' often stays warm and rests.
resfriado(adjective)
having a cold
?describing a person
chilled
?feeling the effects of cold air
📝 In Action
Juan está resfriado y no puede venir.
A1Juan has a cold and can't come.
Hoy me siento un poco resfriado.
A1Today I feel like I'm coming down with a cold.
💡 Grammar Points
Estar vs Ser
Always use 'estar' when you are resfriado. This is because a cold is a temporary condition, not a permanent part of who you are!
Changing for Gender
Remember that this word ends in -o for men and -a for women. A woman would say: 'Estoy resfriada'.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: resfriado
Question 1 of 2
Which verb do you use to say 'I have a cold'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'resfriado' and 'gripe'?
A 'resfriado' is a common cold (congestion, sneezing). 'Gripe' is the flu, which usually involves a fever and muscle aches.
Do people use 'resfriado' in all Spanish-speaking countries?
Yes, it is understood everywhere. However, in Spain, you will very frequently hear 'constipado' instead.