Inklingo

How to Say "good deed" in Spanish

The Spanish word forgood deedis gestoB1 level. This is a very common word in everyday Spanish.

English → SpanishB1

gesto

nounB1
a beneficial action
A simple illustration of two figures standing close together under a single umbrella while small raindrops fall, symbolizing an act of kindness.

Examples

Tener un gesto tan generoso con los vecinos fue admirable.

Having such a generous act toward the neighbors was admirable.

El jefe tuvo el gesto de darnos el viernes libre.

The boss had the kindness to give us Friday off.

Le encantó el gesto de su abuela de enviarle flores.

He loved his grandmother's thoughtful gesture of sending him flowers.

Using 'Tener'

When talking about performing a kind act, Spanish often uses the verb 'tener' (to have) instead of 'hacer' (to do): 'Tuvo un gesto amable' (He had a kind act).

Confusing meanings

Mistake:Using 'gesto' to mean a large, physical feat or heroic action.

Correction: This meaning of 'gesto' usually refers to small, personal, and thoughtful actions, not huge deeds. Use 'hazaña' or 'acción' for heroic acts.

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