verdadera
“verdadera” means “true” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
true, actual
Also: real
📝 In Action
¿Es esta la dirección verdadera de tu casa?
A2Is this the actual address of your house?
La respuesta verdadera es la 'C'.
A2The true answer is 'C'.
genuine, real
Also: authentic
📝 In Action
Esta joya parece una pieza de plata verdadera.
B1This jewel looks like a piece of genuine silver.
Encontré la paz interior verdadera después de mucho tiempo.
B2I found true inner peace after a long time.
sincere, true
Also: heartfelt
📝 In Action
Ella demostró una amistad verdadera y duradera.
B1She showed a true and lasting friendship.
Su tristeza parecía muy verdadera y profunda.
B2Her sadness seemed very sincere and deep.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: verdadera
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'verdadera' in the sense of 'genuine/authentic' (Definition 2)?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Spanish word 'verdad' (truth), which itself traces back to the Late Latin word *veritātem* (truthfulness). The suffix '-era' transforms the concept of 'truth' into a descriptive adjective, meaning 'characterized by truth' or 'truth-like'.
First recorded: Medieval Spanish (similar forms recorded from the 12th century)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'verdadera' and 'cierta'?
'Verdadera' (true/real) and 'cierta' (certain/sure/true) are very close. 'Cierta' often implies that something is confirmed or known for sure ('una noticia cierta'), whereas 'verdadera' tends to focus more on the reality, sincerity, or authenticity of something ('una amistad verdadera').
Since the word ends in '-a', can I use it with masculine words?
No. 'Verdadera' is strictly feminine. You must match the gender of the noun. For example, use 'la opinión verdadera' (feminine) but 'el sentimiento verdadero' (masculine).