How To Say "Stranger" In Spanish

When it comes to learning a new language, expanding your vocabulary is essential. If you are curious about how to say "stranger" in Spanish and want to deepen your understanding of the term, you've come to the right place. In this article, we will explore the translation of "stranger" in Spanish, its various meanings, and provide you with useful examples to help you grasp its usage. So, let us dive into the world of Spanish vocabulary!

What is "Stranger" in Spanish?

In Spanish, the translation of "stranger" can vary depending on the context and region. The most common translations are extraño (IPA: /e̞kˈstɾaɲo̞/) and desconocido (IPA: /desko̞no̞ˈsiðo̞/). The term "extraño" primarily refers to someone unfamiliar or unknown. It is the standard translation in most Spanish-speaking regions. In certain Latin American countries, such as Mexico and Argentina, forastero (IPA: /fo.raˈste.ɾo/) can also be used to describe a stranger. However, its usage is less widespread than "extraño" or "desconocido."

Meaning of "Stranger" in Spanish

These are the meanings of the words mentioned above:

Extraño: As an adjective, it means "strange" or "weird." It is used to describe something that is unfamiliar, unusual, or odd. As a noun, it can refer to a "stranger" or "foreigner," someone who is not known or familiar to the person speaking.

Desconocido: As an adjective, it means "unknown" or "unfamiliar." It is used to describe something that is not recognized, understood, or identified. As a noun, it refers to an "unknown person" or "stranger," someone who is not known or recognized by the speaker.

Forastero: As a noun, it typically means "foreigner" or "outsider." It refers to someone who is from another place or region and is not a local resident. In some contexts, "forastero" can also refer to an "outsider" in a more general sense, someone who is not part of a particular group or community.

Synonyms of "Stranger" in Spanish

Here are some synonyms of "stranger" in Spanish, along with their definitions:

• Intruso (IPA: /inˈtɾu.so/): It refers to someone who intrudes or enters a place without permission or authorization. It can also mean an unwelcome or unwanted person.

• Ajeno (IPA: /aˈxe.no/): It describes someone who is unrelated or not connected to a particular group or situation. It can also mean "someone else's" or "foreign."

• Extranjero (IPA: /eks.tɾaˈɲe.ɾo/): This term refers to a foreigner, someone who is from another country or culture and is not a native or local.

• Incógnito (IPA: /inˈkoɲi.to/): It describes someone who is unknown or hidden, often intentionally concealing their identity or presence.

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Regional Variations

It is important to note that the translation of "stranger" can vary across Spanish-speaking regions. Here are a few regional references:

• In Mexico, "desconocido" and "extraño" are the most commonly used terms.
• In Argentina, "extraño" is more prevalent, but "forastero" can also be heard.
• In Spain, "extraño" and "desconocido" are widely used, but you might also encounter the term "forastero" in some regions.

How to Say "Stranger" in Spanish: Sample Sentences

Here are five sample sentences you can use to say "stranger" in Spanish:

• Ese hombre es un extraño en nuestro vecindario.

(That man is a stranger in our neighborhood.)

• No hables con desconocidos en la calle.

(Don't talk to strangers on the street.)

• ¿Quién es ese forastero que está en la fiesta?

(Who is that stranger at the party?)

• El turista se sentía perdido y desconocido en la ciudad.

(The tourist felt lost and unfamiliar in the city.)

• Me encontré con un extraño mientras caminaba por el parque.

(I encountered a stranger while walking in the park.)

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