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How to Say "condition" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “condition” is “condición” — use this word when referring to a requirement, prerequisite, or a stipulation that must be met for something else to happen.

English → Spanish

condición

nounA2general
Use this word when referring to a requirement, prerequisite, or a stipulation that must be met for something else to happen.

Examples

La única condición para el préstamo es que tengas trabajo.

The only condition for the loan is that you have a job.

estado

es-TAH-dohesˈta.ðo

nounA2general
Use this word to describe the physical or abstract state or quality of something or someone, like its condition or status.
A shiny new bicycle next to an old, rusty bicycle with a flat tire, showing two different conditions.

Examples

El coche está en muy buen estado.

The car is in very good condition.

Mi estado de ánimo cambia con el clima.

My state of mind (mood) changes with the weather.

¿Cuál es tu estado civil, soltero o casado?

What is your marital status, single or married?

Always Masculine

Even when you're talking about something that is a feminine word (like 'la casa'), its condition is 'el estado'. For example: 'el estado de la casa' (the state of the house).

requisito

rreh-kee-SEE-tohre.kiˈsi.to

nounB1general
Choose this word when 'condition' specifically means a rule or necessary item for participation or entry.
A hiker standing before a large wooden gate with a sign showing a hiking boot icon, indicating the need for proper footwear.

Examples

El pasaporte es un requisito para viajar al extranjero.

A passport is a requirement for traveling abroad.

¿Cuáles son los requisitos para solicitar la beca?

What are the requirements to apply for the scholarship?

No cumplo con el requisito de los cinco años de experiencia.

I don't meet the requirement of five years of experience.

Using 'el' and 'un'

This word is masculine, so you should always use 'el requisito' or 'un requisito.' Even if the requirement itself is a feminine thing (like 'una foto'), the word 'requisito' stays masculine.

Meeting Requirements

In English, we 'meet' or 'fulfill' a requirement. In Spanish, the most natural verb to use is 'cumplir'.

Confusing Requisito with Requerimiento

Mistake: “El requerimiento para el trabajo es hablar inglés.”

Correction: El requisito para el trabajo es hablar inglés.

circunstancia

seer-koon-STAHN-syahθiɾkunˈstanθja

nounB1general
Use this word for a situation, factor, or circumstance that influences events, rather than a strict requirement.
A hiker standing on a path in the rain, wearing a bright yellow raincoat and holding an umbrella.

Examples

Es una circunstancia muy extraña.

It is a very strange circumstance.

Debemos adaptarnos a cada circunstancia de la vida.

We must adapt to every circumstance in life.

Bajo ninguna circunstancia debes abrir esa puerta.

Under no circumstances should you open that door.

Always Feminine

This word is always feminine. You should always use feminine markers like 'la' or 'una' with it, regardless of what you are describing.

Plural Usage

Just like in English, you often use the plural 'las circunstancias' to refer to the general state of things or the 'big picture' of a situation.

Wrong Preposition

Mistake: “En ninguna circunstancia...”

Correction: Bajo ninguna circunstancia...

patología

nounB1medical
This is the specific term for a medical condition, illness, or disorder.

Examples

El paciente no tiene ninguna patología previa.

The patient has no pre-existing conditions.

Condición vs. Estado

Learners often confuse 'condición' and 'estado'. Remember that 'condición' implies a requirement or stipulation, like a rule, while 'estado' describes the actual state or quality of something.

Related Translations

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