separados
/seh-pah-RAH-dohs/
separate
Illustrating two objects that are physically separate (separados).
separados(Adjective)
separate
?physically distant or distinct
,apart
?not together
detached
?unconnected
📝 In Action
Los documentos importantes deben estar separados de la basura.
A2The important documents must be kept separate from the trash.
Hay dos edificios separados para las oficinas y el almacén.
B1There are two separate buildings for the offices and the warehouse.
💡 Grammar Points
Agreement is Key
Since 'separados' is an adjective, it must match the thing it describes in number (plural) and gender (masculine). If you were talking about feminine things (e.g., 'las casas'), you would use 'separadas'.
Use with 'Estar'
This word is most often used with the verb 'estar' (to be, for temporary states) to describe location or current condition: 'Estamos separados' (We are apart).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Forgetting the Plural 'S'
Mistake: "Los libros están separado."
Correction: Los libros están separados. (The adjective must be plural to match the plural subject 'libros'.)
⭐ Usage Tips
Check the Context
Although it usually means 'apart,' if you hear it in the context of relationships, it means 'separated' or 'divorced' (see the next definition).
Illustrating a couple who are separated (separados) and living apart.
separados(Adjective)
separated
?marital status; living apart
divorced
?often used informally to imply the relationship ended
📝 In Action
Ellos siguen casados, pero viven separados.
B1They are still married, but they live separately/apart.
Los separados tienen que dividir sus bienes.
C1The separated parties (or 'separated people') have to divide their assets.
💡 Grammar Points
Used as a Noun
When you put an article (like 'los') before 'separados,' it stops being an adjective and refers to the people themselves: 'Los separados' means 'the separated people' or 'those who are separated'.
⭐ Usage Tips
More Formal Term
'Separados' is often the term used when a couple lives apart but hasn't finalized a divorce. 'Divorciados' is used once the legal process is complete.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: separados
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'separados' in the context of marital status?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'separados' a verb or an adjective?
'Separados' is the masculine plural form of the past participle of the verb 'separar.' When used on its own, it functions as an adjective (describing a state or condition, like 'tired' or 'happy').
How do I say 'separated' if I am talking about a group of women?
You must change the ending to match the feminine plural: 'separadas'. For example: 'Las amigas están separadas' (The friends are separated).