How to Say "ethnic" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “ethnic” is “tribal” — B2 level.
Examples
Las estructuras sociales tribales son muy diferentes de las occidentales.
Tribal social structures are very different from Western ones.
La música tribal se caracteriza por el uso de tambores y flautas.
Tribal music is characterized by the use of drums and flutes.
Algunos analistas critican la política moderna por su comportamiento tribal.
Some analysts criticize modern politics for its tribal behavior (excessive loyalty to one side).
Gender is Simple
Since 'tribal' ends in -l, it doesn't change based on whether the noun is masculine or feminine. You use the same form for 'el' and 'la' nouns (e.g., 'la danza tribal', 'el líder tribal').
Forming the Plural
To make 'tribal' plural, you simply add -es: 'tribales' (e.g., 'pueblos tribales').
Incorrect Plural
Mistake: “Using 'tribals' (English pluralization) instead of the Spanish form.”
Correction: Always remember the Spanish plural for adjectives ending in -L is '-es': 'tribales'.
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