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How to Say "habit" in Spanish

English → Spanish

costumbre

cohs-TOOM-breh/kosˈtum.bɾe/

nounA1general
Use this word for a personal, ingrained routine or practice that you regularly do.
A young person easily slipping their foot into a well-worn running shoe next to a closed front door, illustrating a daily exercise habit.

Examples

Tengo la costumbre de leer antes de dormir.

I have the habit of reading before sleeping.

Es mi costumbre tomar un vaso de agua al levantarme.

It is my custom to drink a glass of water when I wake up.

Always Feminine

Remember that 'costumbre' is always feminine, even though it ends in '-e.' You must use 'la' or 'una' with it (e.g., 'la costumbre').

Incorrect Gender

Mistake: “El costumbre de mi abuela...”

Correction: La costumbre de mi abuela... (Always use the feminine article 'la').

hábito

nounA1general
Use this word for a repeated action or a general routine, often something less personal than a 'costumbre'. It can also refer to religious clothing.

Examples

Tengo el hábito de revisar mi teléfono al despertar.

I have the habit of checking my phone when I wake up.

adicción

nounB1general
Use this word when the 'habit' is harmful, compulsive, and difficult to stop, like an addiction.

Examples

La adicción al azúcar es un problema muy común.

Sugar addiction is a very common problem.

Costumbre vs. Hábito

Learners often confuse 'costumbre' and 'hábito' because both mean 'habit' or 'routine'. Use 'costumbre' for personal, established routines, and 'hábito' for more general repeated actions or when referring to religious attire.

Related Translations

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