Spanish word

cordial

Pronunciation

IPA/koɾˈðjal/

Meaning

  • adjectivefriendly

Example

Siempre fue muy cordial con sus colegas.

He was always very friendly with his colleagues.

Illustration for cordial (friendly)

More examples

El embajador mantuvo un tono cordial durante la negociación.

The ambassador maintained a cordial tone during the negotiation.

Core concept

Polite warmth and respectful goodwill.

Common phrases

  • trato cordial

    cordial treatment

  • saludo cordial

    cordial greeting

  • relación cordial

    cordial relationship

  • ambiente cordial

    cordial atmosphere

  • respuesta cordial

    cordial response

Similar words

amable: Considerate, obliging behavior aimed at being helpful and pleasant.
amistoso: Relaxed, approachable friendliness that creates social closeness.
cálido: Warmth that feels emotionally sincere and welcoming.
cortés: Civil, courteous behavior focused on manners and respectful formality.

Definition in Spanish

Que demuestra cortesía y calidez en el trato, mostrando respeto y buena disposición hacia los demás.

Word origin

The word traces to Latin cordialis, formed from cor 'heart', and reaches Spanish via medieval Latin and Old French where it denotes courteous warmth.

Usage tips

  • Spanish cordial generally sounds more formal than amable or simpático and is frequent in set phrases and closings rather than in everyday small talk.

Other meanings

  • kindadjective
  • warmadjective

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word