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How to Say "meaning" in Spanish

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significado

sig-ni-fi-KAH-doh/siɣnifiˈkaðo/

nounA2general
Use 'significado' when you are asking for or explaining the definition of a specific word, phrase, or symbol.
A simple red heart symbol floating above a small child who is happily hugging a soft teddy bear, illustrating the definition or meaning of the symbol.

Examples

¿Cuál es el significado de la palabra 'paciencia'?

What is the meaning of the word 'patience'?

No entendí el significado de su gesto.

I didn't understand the meaning of his gesture.

El diccionario ofrece varios significados para esta expresión.

The dictionary offers several meanings for this expression.

Gender Check

Remember that significado is always masculine, so you must use 'el' or 'un' before it: 'el significado' (the meaning).

Confusing 'Significado' and 'Significación'

Mistake: “Using 'significación' when referring to the definition of a word.”

Correction: Use *significado* for the definition. *Significación* is a more formal and less common synonym for 'importance' or 'connotation'.

sentido

/sen-TEE-doh//senˈti.ðo/

nounB1general
Use 'sentido' when referring to the general idea, purpose, or logical sense of something, rather than a dictionary definition.
A simple illustration showing a tangled string or puzzle piece resolving itself into a clear, single line, symbolizing clarity and meaning.

Examples

No entiendo el sentido de tu pregunta.

I don't understand the meaning of your question.

Lo que dices no tiene ningún sentido.

What you're saying makes no sense at all.

Ahora todo tiene sentido.

Now everything makes sense.

'Sentido' vs. 'Significado'

Mistake: “Using 'significado' in the phrase 'no tiene significado'.”

Correction: Always say 'no tiene sentido' to mean 'it doesn't make sense'. While 'significado' also means 'meaning', it's used for the definition of a word, not for logic or reason.

Significado vs. Sentido

Learners often confuse 'significado' and 'sentido'. Remember that 'significado' is for the definition of words or symbols, while 'sentido' refers to the overall sense, logic, or purpose of an idea or statement.

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