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How to Say "affairs" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “affairs” is “asuntos” — use 'asuntos' for general political, professional, or official matters, especially when referring to a body of work or a specific field..

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asuntos

/a-SOON-tos//aˈsuntos/

nounB1
Use 'asuntos' for general political, professional, or official matters, especially when referring to a body of work or a specific field.
A simple illustration of a professional office desk featuring a closed leather briefcase and several neatly stacked file folders, representing professional business or affairs.

Examples

El Ministro de Asuntos Exteriores viajó a Bruselas.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs traveled to Brussels.

Tengo que ir al banco para arreglar unos asuntos de negocios.

I have to go to the bank to sort out some business matters.

Business vs. Affairs

Mistake: “Using 'asuntos' for a large company name ('Microsoft Business').”

Correction: Use 'negocios' (business/commerce) in contexts where you would use the English word 'business' as a general sector. Use 'asuntos' when referring to the specific 'dealings' or 'matters' of that company.

cuestiones

/kwes-TYOH-nes//kwesˈtjones/

nounA2
Choose 'cuestiones' when referring to specific issues, problems, or personal matters that need to be discussed or resolved.
A group of colorful folders and papers spread across a wooden table, representing different topics.

Examples

Hay algunas cuestiones que debemos resolver hoy.

There are some matters we need to resolve today.

Es una de las cuestiones más importantes del proyecto.

It is one of the most important issues of the project.

Always Feminine

Even though it doesn't end in 'a', this word is feminine. Use 'las' or 'unas' with it.

Cuestiones vs. Preguntas

Mistake: “Using 'cuestiones' when you are literally asking for an answer.”

Correction: Use 'preguntas' for a question you ask a teacher; use 'cuestiones' for a topic or a matter being analyzed.

negocios

/ne-GO-syos//neˈɣo.sjos/

nounB2informal
Use 'negocios' for personal dealings, private matters, or business in a more informal sense, often implying 'mind your own business'.
A cartoon character whispering intensely into another character's ear while looking around nervously, symbolizing private or secretive affairs.

Examples

No te metas en mis negocios, por favor.

Don't get involved in my affairs, please.

Se rumorea que tiene negocios turbios con el gobierno.

It's rumored that he has shady dealings with the government.

relaciones

re-la-SYO-nes/re.laˈsjo.nes/

nounB1formal
Opt for 'relaciones' when discussing diplomacy, government interactions, or the field of international relations.
A stylized figure using a megaphone to project sound waves toward a small, attentive crowd, representing public relations.

Examples

Estudió la licenciatura en Relaciones Internacionales.

She studied for a degree in International Relations.

El equipo de relaciones públicas manejó la crisis.

The public relations team handled the crisis.

Las relaciones exteriores del país mejoraron este año.

The country's foreign affairs/relations improved this year.

Capitalization in Titles

When 'Relaciones' is part of an official department name or degree title (like 'Relaciones Internacionales'), it is often capitalized.

líos

nounB1informal
Use 'líos' specifically for secret romantic relationships or affairs, often implying scandal or intrigue.

Examples

Dicen que el jefe tiene líos con su secretaria.

They say the boss is having an affair with his secretary.

General Matters vs. Specific Issues

Learners often confuse 'asuntos' and 'cuestiones'. Remember that 'asuntos' refers to broader, more official or professional topics, while 'cuestiones' points to specific, often debatable, points or problems to be addressed.

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