Inklingo

How to Say "detailed" in Spanish

English → Spanish

curioso

/koo-ree-OH-so//kuˈɾjo.so/

AdjectiveB2General
Use 'curioso' when referring to work or a process that involves careful attention to small parts and meticulous execution, highlighting the thoroughness and precision involved.
A cartoon mouse wearing spectacles meticulously using a tiny pair of tweezers to place a single blue bead onto a patterned surface.

Examples

El detective hizo un análisis muy curioso de la escena del crimen.

The detective did a very detailed analysis of the crime scene.

El carpintero hizo un trabajo muy curioso con la madera.

The carpenter did a very meticulous job with the wood.

Su caligrafía es curiosa y elegante.

His handwriting is neat and elegant.

Formal Contexts

This meaning is usually found in descriptions of professional or artistic work where attention to detail is highlighted.

trabajado

trah-bah-HAH-doh/tɾaβaˈxaðo/

adjectiveB1General
Opt for 'trabajado' when describing something that is complex, intricate, or has clearly had a lot of effort and skill put into its creation, emphasizing its elaborate nature.
A close-up view of a small, antique wooden box covered in extremely detailed, complex floral carvings, illustrating intricate design.

Examples

El bordado del vestido era increíblemente trabajado.

The embroidery on the dress was incredibly detailed.

El diseño de la joya era muy trabajado y complejo.

The design of the jewelry was very elaborate and complex.

Presentaron un informe muy trabajado sobre la economía.

They presented a very detailed report on the economy.

La trama de la novela está muy trabajada.

The plot of the novel is very well-crafted (or detailed).

Adjective Agreement

When used as an adjective, 'trabajado' must match the noun it describes. Use 'trabajada' for feminine singular nouns (e.g., 'una estrategia trabajada').

Meaning with 'Ser' vs. 'Estar'

It usually pairs with 'ser' (to be permanent) to describe the inherent quality of being elaborate or complex: 'La escultura es trabajada.' (The sculpture is elaborate).

Curioso vs. Trabajado

Learners often confuse 'curioso' and 'trabajado' because both can imply complexity. Remember that 'curioso' focuses on meticulous attention to small details and thoroughness, while 'trabajado' emphasizes the intricate effort and skill involved in the creation of something.

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