How to Say Athletic in Spanish | MostUsedWords.com
Updated for 2026, if you're looking to learn how to say athletic in Spanish, the term is "atlético."
2,500 most common Spanish words with IPA pronunciation & bilingual example sentences
What Does "Athletic" Mean in Spanish?
The word for athletic in Spanish is "atlético," which originates from the Greek word "athlētikos." This adjective can be used to describe physical fitness and sporting achievements. In addition to its use as an adjective, "atlético" also functions as a noun referring to athletes or sports clubs.
Sample Sentences Using "Atlético"
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The Spanish Frequency Dictionary series covers the 10,000 most common Spanish words — ranked by how often native speakers actually use them, with IPA pronunciation, English translations, and bilingual example sentences at every level.
Browse all 4 volumes →To demonstrate the usage of "atlético," here are several sample sentences:
- Mi hermano es muy atlético y le gusta jugar al fútbol.
(My brother is very athletic and enjoys playing football.)
- Ella es una atleta atlética.
(She is an athletic athlete.)
Synonyms and Antonyms for "Atlético"
While "atlético" commonly describes physical fitness, it's important to note that other terms like "deportista" (sportsman) are also prevalent. Synonyms include:
- Físico: Physical.
- Sano: Healthy.
Antonyms for "atlético" might be:
- Inactivo: Inactive.
- Débil: Weak.
Usage in Different Contexts
"Atlético" can be used in various contexts, such as sports commentary and personal descriptions. For instance:
- In sports commentary: El Club Atlético de Madrid es un equipo de fútbol muy famoso.
(The Club Atlético de Madrid is a very famous football team.)
Formal vs. Informal Usage of "Atlético"
In formal settings, such as academic or professional contexts, it's more appropriate to use the full term "atlético." In informal conversations with friends and family, you might use shorter forms like:
- Ate: A colloquial short form of "atlético" in some regions.
Pronunciation Guide for Non-Native Speakers
To help non-native speakers pronounce "atlético" correctly, here is a pronunciation guide:
- Athletic in Spanish: /a.tle̞.ˈti.ko/
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