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How to Say "substantial" in Spanish

English → Spanish

generoso

heh-neh-ROH-soh/xe.neˈɾo.so/

adjectiveB1general
Use 'generoso' when referring to a 'substantial' portion or amount of something, especially food or a gift, implying it's more than expected or a good size.
A high quality storybook illustration of a small bowl piled high with an excessively large, overflowing portion of colorful scoops of ice cream.

Examples

El camarero nos sirvió un trozo de pastel muy generoso.

The waiter served us a very generous slice of cake (a large one).

Recibimos una donación generosa para nuestro proyecto de investigación.

We received a generous donation (a large amount) for our research project.

Using 'Generoso' for Things

When 'generoso' describes a thing (like a portion or a budget), it means the amount is large or plentiful. It carries the same positive feeling as describing a person.

respetable

/rreh-speh-TAH-bleh//respeˈtaβle/

adjectiveB2general
Use 'respetable' when describing a 'substantial' or considerable quantity of something abstract like people, money, or effort, indicating a significant number or amount.
A very large, overflowing basket of colorful ripe fruit sitting on a wooden table.

Examples

Había una cantidad respetable de gente en el concierto.

There was a considerable amount of people at the concert.

Llevaban una velocidad respetable.

They were traveling at a substantial speed.

Generoso vs. Respetable

Learners often confuse 'generoso' and 'respetable' by using 'generoso' for abstract quantities. Remember, 'generoso' is best for physical portions or gifts, while 'respetable' fits better for larger, often abstract, numbers or amounts.

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