Spanish word

cita

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈθita/

Meaning

  • feminine nounappointment

Example

Tengo una cita con María esta tarde.

I have an appointment with María this afternoon.

Illustration for cita (appointment)

More examples

Para ver al especialista necesito una cita previa.

To see the specialist I need a prior appointment.

Core concept

Arranged meeting time to see someone or receive a service.

Common phrases

  • cita previa

    prior appointment

  • confirmar una cita

    confirm an appointment

  • anular una cita

    cancel an appointment

Similar words

reunión: Planned assembly of people to discuss matters or collaborate.
turno: A designated time slot given to someone for their turn.
reserva: A booking made ahead to secure a place, table, or service.
visita: An arranged visit to see someone at their location.

Definition in Spanish

Compromiso formal o informal para encontrarse con otra persona en un momento y lugar convenidos; abarca desde reservas hasta citas amorosas.

Word origin

The noun comes from the Spanish verb citar 'to call or summon', ultimately from Latin citare, and carries the sense of a summoned or scheduled meeting.

Usage tips

  • The phrase tener una cita is often ambiguous between a professional appointment and a romantic date, so speakers normally add the person or purpose (for example con el médico or con María) to clarify.

Other meanings

  • datenoun
  • bookingnoun

Opposites

  • anulacióncancellationnoun

Related words

  • citarmake an appointmentverb
  • citadodesignatedadjective

Word lists with this word