Inklingo

How to Say "progressive" in Spanish

English → Spanish

abiertas

/ah-byer-tas//aˈβjeɾtas/

AdjectiveB1general
Use 'abiertas' when referring to ideas, policies, or attitudes that are open-minded, inclusive, and forward-thinking, often in a political or social context.
A simple illustration of a person smiling and looking up, with a brightly glowing lightbulb floating above their head, symbolizing a new idea being received.

Examples

Las nuevas políticas económicas son muy abiertas e inclusivas.

The new economic policies are very progressive and inclusive.

Ellas son personas muy abiertas que siempre escuchan otros puntos de vista.

They are very open-minded people who always listen to other points of view.

Figurative Use

When describing personality traits (like being open-minded), Spanish typically uses 'ser': 'Ellas son abiertas'.

moderno

moh-DEHR-noh/moˈðeɾ.no/

AdjectiveB1general
Use 'moderno' when describing something that is current, up-to-date, or has advanced features, similar to 'modern' or 'stylish' in English.
A person wearing a fashionable, brightly colored outfit featuring geometric shapes and clean lines, standing confidently.

Examples

Esa cafetería es muy moderna; tiene sillas de diseño y luces LED.

That coffee shop is very modern; it has designer chairs and LED lights.

Mi hermana siempre viste de forma muy moderna.

My sister always dresses in a very fashionable way.

Policies vs. Style

Learners often confuse 'abiertas' and 'moderno' because both can imply newness. Remember that 'abiertas' specifically relates to progressive ideas, policies, or social attitudes, while 'moderno' refers more to the style, design, or up-to-date nature of an object or place.

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.