Inklingo

How to Say "universe" in Spanish

English → Spanish

universo

oo-nee-VER-sou.niˈβeɾ.so

nounA2general
Use 'universo' for the general concept of the universe, especially in everyday contexts or when discussing scientific expansion.
A stylized view of outer space showing numerous yellow and white stars, swirling colorful nebulae, and several simple, round planets floating against a deep blue and black background.

Examples

Dicen que el universo sigue expandiéndose cada día.

They say the universe keeps expanding every day.

Estudiar el universo es el trabajo de los astrónomos.

Studying the universe is the job of astronomers.

Somos solo una pequeña parte del vasto universo.

We are just a small part of the vast universe.

Masculine Noun Rule

Since 'universo' ends in -o, it is a masculine noun. Always use the masculine articles with it: 'el universo' (the universe), 'un universo' (a universe).

Using the Feminine Article

Mistake: “La universo”

Correction: El universo. Remember, Spanish nouns have a gender, and you must match the article: 'el' (masculine) or 'la' (feminine).

cosmos

KOHZ-mohsˈkozmos

nounB1general
Choose 'cosmos' when referring to the universe in a more philosophical, poetic, or awe-inspiring sense, emphasizing its vastness and mystery.
A vibrant illustration of a swirling galaxy filled with colorful stars, planets, and nebulae in a deep blue space.

Examples

El cosmos es un lugar lleno de misterios por descubrir.

The cosmos is a place full of mysteries to discover.

Muchos filósofos antiguos creían que el cosmos era perfecto.

Many ancient philosophers believed that the cosmos was perfect.

Nuestra galaxia es solo una pequeña parte del vasto cosmos.

Our galaxy is only a small part of the vast cosmos.

The word doesn't change in plural

In Spanish, words ending in 's' that aren't stressed on the last syllable don't change their spelling when they become plural. You say 'el cosmos' for one and 'los cosmos' for many.

Always Masculine

Even though it ends in 's', this word is masculine. Always use masculine helpers like 'el', 'un', or 'este'.

Plural Spelling Error

Mistake: “los cosmoses”

Correction: los cosmos. Words like this stay the same; only the 'el' or 'los' changes.

General vs. Poetic Usage

Learners often confuse 'universo' and 'cosmos' by using 'cosmos' too frequently. Remember that 'universo' is the standard, everyday word for 'universe'. Reserve 'cosmos' for when you want to evoke a sense of wonder or philosophical contemplation.

Related Translations

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