Inklingo

How to Say "keeper" in Spanish

English → Spanish

cuidador

kwee-dah-DORkwiðaˈðoɾ

nounA2general
Use 'cuidador' when referring to someone who is responsible for the care and feeding of animals, such as in a zoo or sanctuary.
A person in a uniform feeding a large giraffe at a zoo.

Examples

El cuidador del zoológico alimenta a los leones cada mañana.

The zookeeper feeds the lions every morning.

El cuidador de la finca vive en una casa pequeña cerca de la entrada.

The caretaker of the estate lives in a small house near the entrance.

Los cuidadores del parque mantienen los senderos limpios.

The park keepers keep the trails clean.

Using 'de' for connection

To specify what someone takes care of, always use the word 'de' (of). For example: 'cuidador de caballos' (horse keeper).

Confusing with 'Conserje'

Mistake:Calling a building janitor a 'cuidador'.

Correction: A building janitor is usually a 'conserje' or 'portero'. Use 'cuidador' for estates, parks, or animals.

guardián

nounB1general
Use 'guardián' for someone who guards or protects a place, object, or person, often in a security or protective role.

Examples

El guardián de seguridad revisó mi bolso antes de entrar al museo.

The security guard checked my bag before entering the museum.

Cuidador vs. Guardián

The most common mistake is using 'guardián' when 'cuidador' is needed for animal care. Remember that 'cuidador' specifically implies nurturing and day-to-day attention, while 'guardián' is more about protection and oversight.

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