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How to Say "apparition" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “apparition” is “aparición” — use 'aparición' when referring to a general supernatural vision or a ghost, often emphasizing the event of seeing something unusual..

English → Spanish

aparición

nounB2general
Use 'aparición' when referring to a general supernatural vision or a ghost, often emphasizing the event of seeing something unusual.

Examples

Los niños contaron que vieron una aparición en el bosque.

The children told that they saw an apparition in the forest.

aparecido

ah-pah-reh-SEE-doh/apaɾeˈsiðo/

nounB2general
Use 'aparecido' when you want to describe a specific spectral entity or ghost that is believed to haunt a place.
A friendly, translucent white ghost figure floating gently in a dark blue nighttime setting.

Examples

Los abuelos contaban historias de un aparecido en la hacienda vieja.

The grandparents told stories about a ghost in the old ranch.

Vi una sombra, pero no sé si era un aparecido o solo mi imaginación.

I saw a shadow, but I don't know if it was an apparition or just my imagination.

Derived Noun

This noun literally means 'the one who has appeared.' Many Spanish nouns are formed this way by taking the past participle and treating it like a thing or person.

General Ghost vs. Specific Entity

Learners often confuse 'aparecido' and 'aparición' by using 'aparecido' too broadly. Remember, 'aparecido' usually refers to a specific, named or known ghost, while 'aparición' is a more general term for any supernatural sighting.

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