varios
/VAH-ryos/
several
The word "varios" means "several," indicating an indefinite quantity, like this handful of apples.
varios(Adjective)
several
?indefinite quantity
,various
?meaning different types/kinds
a number of
?quantifying expression
📝 In Action
Necesito comprar varios libros para la clase de historia.
A1I need to buy several books for the history class.
Varios expertos tienen opiniones distintas sobre el tema.
B1Various experts have different opinions on the topic.
Estuvimos esperando durante varios minutos.
A2We were waiting for a number of minutes.
💡 Grammar Points
Always Agrees
Since 'varios' is an adjective, it must change its ending to match the noun it describes. Use 'varios' for masculine plural nouns (e.g., 'libros'), and 'varias' for feminine plural nouns (e.g., 'casas').
❌ Common Pitfalls
Using the Singular Form
Mistake: "Hablé con vario amigo."
Correction: Hablé con varios amigos. (Because 'varios' means more than one, it should almost always be plural.)
⭐ Usage Tips
Quantifying Tip
'Varios' usually suggests a larger, though still unspecified, group than 'algunos' (some), but fewer than 'muchos' (many).
When used as a pronoun, "varios" means "several (of them)," referring to an indefinite selection from a larger group.
varios(Pronoun)
several (of them)
?indefinite group of people or things
a few (people)
?referring to people
📝 In Action
¿Cuántos pasteles quedan? Quedan varios, pero no muchos.
A2How many cakes are left? Several are left, but not many.
Llamé a mis amigos, y varios ya estaban de viaje.
B1I called my friends, and several (of them) were already traveling.
💡 Grammar Points
Replacing the Noun
As a pronoun, 'varios' stands alone and takes the place of a group of masculine nouns. You do not need to repeat the noun if it's clear.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Confusing Adjective and Pronoun Function
Mistake: "Vi a varios la tienda. (Missing the noun 'people'/'friends')"
Correction: Vi a varios amigos en la tienda. (Better to use the adjective form if you specify the noun.)
⭐ Usage Tips
Answering Questions
Use the pronoun form 'varios' frequently when responding to a question about quantity: '¿Cuántos compraron? — Varios.' (How many bought? — Several.)
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: varios
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses the feminine form of 'varios'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'varios' and 'muchos'?
'Varios' means 'several' or 'a number of,' indicating a small to moderate, non-specific quantity (usually 3-10). 'Muchos' means 'many' and suggests a much larger quantity.
Can I use the singular form 'vario'?
The singular form 'vario' exists but is much less common, usually meaning 'various' or 'diverse' when used in specific literary or technical contexts. In daily conversation, always use the plural 'varios' or 'varias' to mean 'several'.