If you're learning Spanish or want to enrich your vocabulary, knowing different ways to say “beautiful” is helpful. Here is a breakdown of common synonyms, how they are used, and when to choose one over another.
Common Spanish Synonyms for Beautiful
Bonito / Bonita
This is one of the most common and basic ways to say beautiful. It works well for both people and things.
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Use bonito for masculine nouns.
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Use bonita for feminine nouns.
Example:
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Una casa bonita — A beautiful house
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Un paisaje bonito — A beautiful landscape
Hermoso / Hermosa
This word sounds a little more elegant or poetic. It can be used for people, nature, or objects.
Example:
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Una vista hermosa — A beautiful view
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Una mujer hermosa — A beautiful woman
Lindo / Linda
This word is very similar to bonito but is often used with a slightly more affectionate tone. It’s common in Latin America.
Example:
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Qué linda eres — How beautiful you are
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Un lugar lindo — A beautiful place
Guapo / Guapa
This is typically used to describe attractive people, especially men. It can imply physical beauty or charm.
Example:
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Un chico guapo — A handsome guy
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Una mujer guapa — A beautiful woman (less common than hermosa or bonita)
Bello / Bella
This is more formal or literary. It’s not often used in everyday conversation but can appear in writing or poetic speech.
Example:
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Una bella historia — A beautiful story
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Un bello poema — A beautiful poem
Less Common or Regional Variants
Precioso / Preciosa
Used for things or people that are exceptionally beautiful or valuable.
Example:
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Una joya preciosa — A beautiful (precious) jewel
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Un bebé precioso — A beautiful baby
Chulo / Chula
In Spain, this can mean something is cool or stylish, but in Latin America, it might have different meanings. Use with caution depending on the region.
Example:
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Un coche chulo — A cool (beautiful) car (in Spain)
Mono / Mona
Used for something cute or charming, especially small objects or children.
Example:
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Una niña mona — A cute girl
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Un vestido mono — A cute dress
How to Choose the Right Word
By Gender and Number
Always match the gender and number of the noun:
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bonita (feminine singular)
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bonitos (masculine plural)
By Context
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For people: use guapo, hermoso, or lindo.
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For things: use bonito, hermoso, or precioso.
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For poetic or emotional contexts: choose bello or hermoso.
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For casual use: go with bonito or lindo.
Understanding these synonyms helps you sound more natural and expressive in Spanish.