- Spanish to English
don
- Dictionary
USAGE NOTE
In Spanish-speaking countries, "don" is often used as a title of respect with a man's name. When it is used with a first name only, it is not translated directly as shown in sense 1c).
el don(
dohn
)A masculine noun is used with masculine articles and adjectives (e.g., el hombre guapo, el sol amarillo).
a. Mr.
Tengo una cita con don Carlos Jiménez a las dos.I have an appointment with Mr. Carlos Jiménez at two.
c. no direct translation
This refers to an idiomatic word or phrase for which there is no word-for-word translation.
Recibí una carta de don Pedro.I received a letter from Peter.
Don Pablo, ya puede pasar al despacho.Pablo, if you'd like to go into the office now, sir.
2. (colloquial) (before a common noun)
A word or phrase that is commonly used in conversational speech (e.g., skinny, grandma).
a. Mr. (United States)
Regionalism used in the United States
¡Mira quién habló, don Perfecto!Look who's talking, Mr. Perfect!
b. Mr (United Kingdom)
Regionalism used in the United Kingdom
Aquí don Videojuegos no aparta los ojos de la pantalla.Mr Videogames here can't take his eyes off the screen.
3. (ability)
4. (literary) (present)
A word or phrase restricted in usage to literature or established writing (e.g., sex, once upon a time).
a. gift
Los tres Reyes de Oriente portaban dones para el nuevo Mesías.The Three Kings from the East bore gifts for the new Messiah.
5. (colloquial) (term of address) (Latin America)
A word or phrase that is commonly used in conversational speech (e.g., skinny, grandma).
Regionalism used in Latin America: all the countries in South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. Does not include Spain.
a. buddy (colloquial) (United States)
A word or phrase that is commonly used in conversational speech (e.g., skinny, grandma).
Regionalism used in the United States
¿En qué puedo servirle, don?How can I help you, buddy?
b. mate (colloquial) (United Kingdom)
A word or phrase that is commonly used in conversational speech (e.g., skinny, grandma).
Regionalism used in the United Kingdom
¿Cuántos quiere, don?How many do you want, mate?
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