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How to Say "extraterrestrials" in Spanish

English → Spanish

alienígenas

nounB1informal
Use this term for 'aliens' when discussing them in a general, informal, or pop-culture context, such as in movies or science fiction stories.

Examples

En la película, los alienígenas invadieron la Tierra en naves gigantes.

In the movie, the aliens invaded Earth in giant ships.

extraterrestres

/ex-trah-teh-RRES-tres//ekstɾateˈrestɾes/

nounB2formal
Opt for this term when you need a more formal or scientific way to refer to life originating from beyond Earth, often in discussions about space exploration or scientific possibility.
Illustration of two small, friendly green aliens with large black eyes standing on a colorful, purple planet surface under a starry sky.

Examples

Los niños creen que los extraterrestres vienen en platillos voladores.

The children believe that aliens come in flying saucers.

El gobierno negó haber tenido contacto con extraterrestres en la década de los 70.

The government denied having contact with extraterrestrials in the 70s.

Gender Neutrality

The singular form, 'extraterrestre,' is a noun that works for both male and female individuals. In the plural, you use 'los extraterrestres' for a mixed group or males, and 'las extraterrestres' for an all-female group.

Informal vs. Formal Usage

The most common mistake is using the formal 'extraterrestres' in casual conversations or pop culture contexts where 'alienígenas' would sound more natural. Conversely, using 'alienígenas' in a serious scientific or official discussion might seem too informal.

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