Adjective
/lis-to/
The word "listo" is commonly used in Spanish to describe someone or something that is prepared or ready for a task. Additionally, it can refer to someone who is intelligent, quick-witted, or clever. Its usage frequency is quite high in both spoken and written contexts, as it covers essential meanings in everyday conversation and formal writing.
Are you ready for the exam?
Juan es muy listo, siempre sabe la respuesta correcta.
"Listo" is frequently found in various idiomatic expressions in Spanish, emphasizing its versatility in different contexts. Here are some idioms that incorporate "listo":
This phrase indicates being fully prepared, as students should be for their examinations.
Hacer algo a lista.
This expression suggests that something is done without much preparation or planning.
Ser un listo.
This phrase refers to someone who is clever but may often use their intelligence in a mischievous or annoying manner.
Poner a alguien en lista.
This is often used in the context of organizing or planning, signifying that someone has been accounted for.
Estar listo para cualquier cosa.
You should always be ready like a university student.
¡No seas tan listo!
Don’t be such a smart aleck!
El evento es mañana, así que tienes que ponerme en lista.
The word "listo" comes from the Latin term "laetus," which means joyful or happy. Over time, its meaning evolved within the Spanish language to come to mean "ready" and associated with intelligence.
Synonyms: - Preparado (prepared) - Inteligente (intelligent) - Astuto (astute)
Antonyms: - Despreparado (unprepared) - Tonto (foolish) - Torpe (clumsy)
In conclusion, "listo" is a multifaceted adjective valuable in numerous contexts in the Spanish language, both in casual conversation and formal discourse.