sagrado
/sah-GRAH-doh/
sacred
Depicting something sacred or holy (sagrado) related to religion or deep spirituality.
sagrado(Adjective)
sacred
?related to religion or deep spirituality
,holy
?set apart for the worship of God or a deity
hallowed
?old-fashioned or literary use
📝 In Action
Esta montaña es considerada un lugar sagrado por la tribu.
A2This mountain is considered a sacred place by the tribe.
Los textos sagrados contienen las enseñanzas de la fe.
B1The holy texts contain the teachings of the faith.
💡 Grammar Points
Adjective Agreement
Remember that 'sagrado' changes its ending to match the noun it describes: 'un momento sagrado' (masculine) vs. 'una promesa sagrada' (feminine).
⭐ Usage Tips
Formal Contexts
This meaning is often used in formal writing, religious discussions, or historical contexts.
Showing an object that is inviolable (sagrado) and protected from interference.
sagrado(Adjective)
inviolable
?something that must not be broken or interfered with
,cherished
?highly important and protected
untouchable
?figurative meaning of protected
📝 In Action
La hora del café de la abuela es sagrada, nadie la molesta.
B1Grandma's coffee time is sacred (inviolable); no one bothers her.
Para nosotros, el descanso de los domingos es sagrado.
B2For us, Sunday rest is sacred/highly protected.
El derecho a la vida es un principio sagrado.
C1The right to life is an inviolable principle.
💡 Grammar Points
Figurative Use
When used figuratively, 'sagrado' emphasizes that something is so important that it must be respected and cannot be changed or ignored, like a rule written in stone.
⭐ Usage Tips
Expressing Importance
Use this meaning when you want to strongly emphasize the importance or non-negotiable nature of a tradition, right, or commitment.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: sagrado
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'sagrado' in its figurative sense (meaning 'inviolable' or 'protected')?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know whether to use 'sagrado' or 'santo'?
'Sagrado' generally refers to places, objects, or concepts that are set apart or respected (e.g., 'tierra sagrada'). 'Santo' (holy/saint) is usually used for people (saints), days, or specific religious names (e.g., 'Semana Santa').
Does 'sagrado' always have a religious meaning?
No. While its origin is religious, it is very commonly used in everyday Spanish to describe anything considered extremely important, non-negotiable, or cherished (like 'mi tiempo es sagrado' – my time is untouchable).