sencilla
“sencilla” means “simple” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
simple, easy
Also: straightforward
📝 In Action
La pregunta era tan sencilla que todos la respondieron.
A1The question was so simple that everyone answered it.
Necesitamos una solución sencilla para este problema.
A2We need an easy solution for this problem.
La decoración de la casa es muy sencilla, pero elegante.
B1The house decoration is very simple, but elegant.
humble, unpretentious
Also: modest
📝 In Action
A pesar de ser famosa, la actriz es muy sencilla con sus fans.
B1Despite being famous, the actress is very humble/down-to-earth with her fans.
Prefiere la ropa sencilla a las marcas caras.
B2She prefers modest clothing to expensive brands.
small change
Also: change
📝 In Action
Disculpe, ¿tiene sencilla para pagar el taxi?
B2Excuse me, do you have small change to pay for the taxi?
El cajero me dio mucha sencilla.
C1The cashier gave me a lot of change/coins.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: sencilla
Question 1 of 2
Which English word best describes 'una persona sencilla'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from the Latin *singellus*, which was a diminutive (a smaller version) of *singulus*, meaning 'single' or 'alone.' The idea of being 'simple' evolved from being 'one' or 'uncomplicated.'
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if 'sencilla' means 'simple' or 'humble'?
Look at what the word is describing. If it describes an object (like a recipe or a task), it means 'simple' or 'easy'. If it describes a person, their style, or their life, it means 'humble' or 'modest'.
Why does 'sencilla' have an 'a' at the end?
'Sencilla' is the feminine form. It must agree with a feminine noun, like 'una vida sencilla' (a simple life). If the noun were masculine, you would use 'sencillo', like 'un libro sencillo' (a simple book).