superior
/soo-peh-ree-OR/
superior
Showing that one item is of 'superior' (better) quality or rank.
superior(adjective)
superior
?better quality or rank
,upper
?physical position or location
higher
?level or degree
,excellent
?quality
📝 In Action
Este modelo tiene una tecnología superior a los demás.
A2This model has superior technology compared to the others.
Vivimos en la planta superior del edificio.
A1We live on the upper floor of the building.
Ella demostró una habilidad superior en el examen.
B1She demonstrated a superior ability on the exam.
💡 Grammar Points
Gender Agreement
Unlike many Spanish adjectives, 'superior' has the same form whether you are describing a masculine or a feminine thing (e.g., 'el nivel superior' and 'la planta superior').
Making it Plural
To describe more than one thing, you add '-es' to make it 'superiores' (e.g., 'los resultados superiores').
⭐ Usage Tips
Use for Education
The phrase 'educación superior' is the standard way to refer to university or college education.
Referring to a person who is a 'superior' (a person of higher rank or authority).
superior(noun)
superior
?a person of higher rank
,boss
?informal substitute for a manager
senior
?in a hierarchical structure
📝 In Action
Mi superior jerárquico aprobó el presupuesto.
B1My hierarchical superior (boss) approved the budget.
Ella es la superiora de la orden religiosa.
C1She is the Mother Superior (female superior) of the religious order.
Necesitas la firma de tu superior para proceder.
B1You need your superior's signature to proceed.
💡 Grammar Points
Masculine vs. Feminine Noun
When referring to a male boss, use 'el superior'. When referring to a female boss, use 'la superior' or, especially in religious contexts, 'la superiora'.
⭐ Usage Tips
Formality
Using 'superior' is more formal and respectful than using 'jefe' (boss), which is common but can be slightly more casual.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: superior
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'superior' as a person (a noun)?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I say 'upper floor' versus 'top floor'?
You can use 'la planta superior' for 'upper floor' (meaning any floor above the ground floor). If you specifically mean the highest floor, you would usually say 'el último piso' or 'la planta más alta'.
Is 'superior' always a compliment?
Yes, when used as an adjective describing quality ('calidad superior'), it means excellent or better. When used as a noun ('el superior'), it simply refers to someone's rank, which is neutral.