Inklingo

How to Say "characteristics" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “characteristics” is “perfil” — use 'perfil' when referring to the defining traits, qualities, or background of a person, especially in professional or personal contexts..

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perfil

/pehr-FEEL//peɾˈfil/

nounB2general
Use 'perfil' when referring to the defining traits, qualities, or background of a person, especially in professional or personal contexts.
A collection of three symbolic objects representing professional abilities: a stylized gear for mechanics, a bright lightbulb for ideas, and a paintbrush for creativity.

Examples

Estamos buscando un candidato con un perfil técnico muy fuerte.

We are looking for a candidate with a very strong technical profile (skill set).

Su perfil psicológico indica una alta creatividad.

His psychological profile indicates high creativity.

El perfil del puesto exige tres años de experiencia.

The job description (or profile of the position) requires three years of experience.

Translating 'Description'

Mistake: “Using 'descripción' when referring to a person's skill set or required characteristics.”

Correction: Use 'perfil' instead of 'descripción' when talking about the summary of traits or skills needed for a job ('el perfil del puesto').

propiedades

pro-pyeh-DAH-des/pɾopjeˈðaðes/

nounB2general
Use 'propiedades' when discussing the inherent qualities or attributes of an object, substance, or abstract concept.
A bright red, perfectly round apple sitting next to a small, fluffy white cotton ball, visually contrasting their characteristics like color, shape, and texture.

Examples

Los científicos estudian las propiedades químicas de este nuevo material.

Scientists are studying the chemical properties of this new material.

Esta fruta tiene propiedades medicinales muy beneficiosas.

This fruit has very beneficial medicinal properties.

Una de sus propiedades principales es su resistencia al calor.

One of its main characteristics is its resistance to heat.

Describing Objects

Use 'propiedades' when talking about the inherent features of a substance, like 'elasticidad' (elasticity) or 'densidad' (density).

Using 'Propiedades' for Personality

Mistake: “Using 'propiedades' to describe a person's character (e.g., 'Sus propiedades son buenas').”

Correction: For people, use 'cualidades' (qualities) or 'rasgos' (traits) instead of 'propiedades'.

Person vs. Object Characteristics

The most common mistake is using 'propiedades' to describe a person's characteristics. Remember that 'perfil' is used for people's defining traits and background, while 'propiedades' refers to the qualities of things or substances.

Related Translations

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