How to Say "categorical" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “categorical” is “rotundo” — B2 level. This is a very common word in everyday Spanish.
Examples
Su respuesta fue un no rotundo.
Her answer was a flat no.
La película fue un éxito rotundo en todo el mundo.
The movie was a resounding success all over the world.
El presidente hizo una declaración rotunda contra la corrupción.
The president made a categorical statement against corruption.
Matching Gender and Number
Since this is a descriptive word, it must match the thing it describes. Use 'rotundo' for masculine words (un éxito rotundo) and 'rotunda' for feminine words (una victoria rotunda).
Word Order for Emphasis
You will almost always find this word after the noun it describes. Placing it there makes the statement feel stronger and more final.
Rotundo vs. Redondo
Mistake: “La pelota es rotunda.”
Correction: La pelota es redonda. Use 'redondo' for physical circular shapes and 'rotundo' for things that are metaphorically 'complete' or 'final' like a decision.
Related Translations
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