How to Say "repeated" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “repeated” is “repetido” — use 'repetido' for something that occurs more than once, often implying a simple repetition of an action, event, or item. It's the most general term..
repetido
/reh-peh-TEE-doh//re.pe.ˈti.ðo/
Examples
Es un error muy repetido en el examen.
It is a very repeated error in the exam.
He escuchado ese nombre repetidas veces.
I have heard that name many times (repeatedly).
El mensaje fue repetido por la radio.
The message was repeated by the radio.
Matching the Noun
Since this acts as a description word, it must match the person or thing you are talking about. Use 'repetido' for masculine things and 'repetida' for feminine things.
The 'ED' ending
In Spanish, words ending in -ado or -ido often act like the English '-ed' ending, describing a state or a completed action.
Don't forget the 'a'
Mistake: “La historia es repetido.”
Correction: La historia es repetida.
reiterado
/rrey-teh-RAH-doh//rei.teˈɾaðo/
Examples
Recibió reiterados avisos antes de que le cortaran la luz.
He received repeated warnings before they cut off his electricity.
Sus ausencias reiteradas a clase afectaron sus notas.
Her repeated absences from class affected her grades.
El éxito de la empresa se debe a sus reiterados esfuerzos por innovar.
The company's success is due to its repeated efforts to innovate.
Matching the Noun
Just like 'alto' or 'rojo,' this word must match the gender and number of the thing you are describing. Use 'reiterado' for one masculine item, 'reiterada' for one feminine item, and add an 's' for plurals.
Placement for Emphasis
While it usually comes after the noun (e.g., 'esfuerzos reiterados'), putting it before the noun (e.g., 'reiterados esfuerzos') makes it sound more formal and emphasizes the quantity of the repetition.
Using it in Casual Chat
Mistake: “Using 'reiterado' when grabbing coffee with a friend.”
Correction: Use 'repetido' or 'muchas veces' in casual talk. 'Reiterado' is best for emails, reports, or serious news.
recurrente
/rreh-koo-rrehn-teh//rekuˈrente/
Examples
Tengo un sueño recurrente en el que puedo volar.
I have a recurring dream where I can fly.
La falta de personal es un problema recurrente en esta oficina.
The lack of staff is a recurring problem in this office.
Es un tema recurrente en las películas de este director.
It is a recurring theme in this director's movies.
One Form for All
This word ends in 'e', which means it stays the same whether you are describing a masculine noun (el problema) or a feminine noun (la idea).
Recurring vs. Recursive
Mistake: “Using 'recursivo' to mean a repeating event.”
Correction: Use 'recurrente'. In Spanish, 'recursivo' is mostly used for mathematics or computer programming.
General vs. Insistent Repetition
Related Translations
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