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How to Say "hygienic" in Spanish

English → Spanish

higiénico

adjectiveB1
Use 'higiénico' when referring to practices, conditions, or objects that promote health and prevent disease through cleanliness, especially in a medical or domestic context.

Examples

Es importante mantener hábitos higiénicos en la cocina.

It is important to maintain hygienic habits in the kitchen.

sano

SAH-nohˈsa.no

adjectiveA2
Use 'sano' when 'hygienic' implies being healthy, wholesome, or good for your well-being, often in the context of food, lifestyle, or a generally healthy environment.
An assortment of brightly colored fresh fruits and vegetables, including apples, carrots, and broccoli, stacked together.

Examples

Comer una dieta sana es esencial para vivir mucho tiempo.

Eating a wholesome/healthy diet is essential for living a long time.

Este lugar es muy sano; tiene aire fresco y mucha luz.

This place is very healthy; it has fresh air and lots of light.

Sano vs. Saludable

'Sano' describes the state of being healthy (a person, or a clean environment). 'Saludable' describes something that causes health (a habit, a diet, a food item). They are often interchangeable when talking about food, but 'sano' is more direct.

Don't confuse 'higiénico' with 'sano' for diet

Learners often incorrectly use 'higiénico' when talking about a healthy diet. Remember that 'sano' is the correct word for a diet that is good for your health, while 'higiénico' specifically refers to cleanliness and disease prevention.

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