señorita
“señorita” means “Miss” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
Miss
Also: young lady
📝 In Action
Disculpe, señorita, ¿me puede ayudar?
A1Excuse me, Miss, can you help me?
La señorita López es la nueva profesora.
A1Miss Lopez is the new teacher.
Buenos días, señorita. ¿En qué le puedo servir?
A2Good morning, Miss. How can I help you?
Miss
Also: waitress
📝 In Action
Señorita, ¿nos puede traer la cuenta, por favor?
A2Miss, can you bring us the check, please?
¡Señorita! Otro café, cuando pueda.
B1Miss! Another coffee, when you can.
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "señorita" in Spanish:
young lady→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: señorita
Question 1 of 1
You need to get the attention of a young woman working at a hotel reception desk. What is the most appropriate way to address her?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
A diminutive form of 'señora'. It comes from the Latin word 'senior', meaning 'older'. 'Señorita' literally means 'little lady' or 'younger lady', which is why it's used for younger women.
First recorded: Around the 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it ever offensive to call someone 'señorita'?
It's usually not meant to be offensive, but context is key. Since it traditionally refers to a young or unmarried woman, some adult women might prefer 'señora' to avoid assumptions about their age or personal life. In a professional setting, if you're unsure, 'señora' or simply 'disculpe' (excuse me) are very safe options.
What is the main difference between 'señorita' and 'chica'?
'Señorita' is a formal title, like 'Miss,' used to show respect. 'Chica' means 'girl' and is very informal, used with friends or people you know well. You would not use 'chica' to get a waitress's attention, for example.