terreno
/teh-RREH-noh/
land
This image shows terreno (land) suitable for building or farming.
terreno(noun)
land
?as a plot for building or farming
,ground
?the surface of the earth
plot
?a specific parcel of land
,terrain
?the physical features of an area
📝 In Action
Compramos un terreno grande para construir la casa de mis sueños.
A1We bought a large plot of land to build my dream house.
El terreno en la montaña es muy rocoso y difícil de caminar.
A2The terrain in the mountain is very rocky and difficult to walk on.
Necesitamos nivelar el terreno antes de instalar la piscina.
B1We need to level the ground before installing the pool.
💡 Grammar Points
Gender Check
Remember that 'terreno' is masculine, so always use 'el terreno' or 'un terreno'.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Using 'tierra' for 'plot'
Mistake: "Quiero comprar una tierra."
Correction: Quiero comprar un terreno. ('Tierra' is usually used for soil, the planet, or a general region.)
⭐ Usage Tips
Focus on Size
'Terreno' often implies a defined, measurable area, like a specific lot or field.
This illustrates terreno meaning 'field' or area of expertise.
terreno(noun)
field
?area of expertise or study
,scope
?area of discussion or influence
domain
?area of control
📝 In Action
No entremos en ese terreno; hablemos solo de negocios.
B2Let's not enter that area (of discussion); let's only talk about business.
La física cuántica es un terreno muy complejo para los principiantes.
C1Quantum physics is a very complex field for beginners.
💡 Grammar Points
Metaphorical Use
Think of this meaning as using the idea of 'land' to describe a mental or intellectual space.
⭐ Usage Tips
Phrases for Agreement
Use 'encontrar terreno común' (to find common ground) when you agree with someone.
Terreno can be an adjective meaning 'terrestrial,' relating to the planet Earth.
terreno(adjective)
terrestrial
?relating to the planet Earth
earthly
?relating to the physical world, often opposed to spiritual
📝 In Action
La vida terreno es breve, dicen los filósofos.
B1Earthly life is brief, say the philosophers.
Los vehículos todo terreno están diseñados para caminos difíciles.
B2All-terrain vehicles are designed for difficult roads.
💡 Grammar Points
Adjective Agreement
As an adjective, 'terreno' must match the noun it describes in number and gender (e.g., 'vida terreno' (f), 'vehículos terrenos' (m, plural)).
⭐ Usage Tips
Common Phrase
The phrase 'todo terreno' (all-terrain) is extremely common when describing vehicles (like SUVs) or durable equipment.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: terreno
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'terreno' in its figurative sense of 'field of expertise'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'terreno' and 'tierra'?
'Terreno' is usually a piece of land with boundaries, like a building lot or a specific field. 'Tierra' is much broader; it can mean soil/dirt, the planet Earth, or a general region/country.
How do I use 'terreno' as an adjective?
It is most often seen in the fixed phrase 'todo terreno' (all-terrain, meaning capable of handling any ground). Otherwise, it describes something related to the physical world, often in contrast to the spiritual or celestial.