Spanish Conversation · Level 65
60 words
Spanish word
recelo
Pronunciation
IPA/reˈθelo/
Meaning
- masculine nounmistrust
Example
Ella mostró recelo hacia el desconocido.
She showed mistrust toward the stranger.
More examples
Al principio sentí recelo ante sus exageraciones.
At first I felt mistrust toward his exaggerations.
Core concept
A wary reserve that keeps one observant but not accusatory.
Common phrases
mostrar recelo hacia
show mistrust toward
sentir recelo ante
feel mistrust toward
Similar words
desconfianza: Shows a sustained lack of trust in a person or thing.
sospecha: Questions the truth or honesty of an action, event, or claim.
reserva: Keeps feelings and opinions private, avoiding open expression.
cautela: Acts carefully and deliberately to avoid risk or danger.
Definition in Spanish
Actitud de reserva y sospecha leve ante alguien, algo o ciertos hechos, que lleva a observar con precaución pero sin acusar abiertamente.
Word origin
Derived from recelar (to suspect) and ultimately from Latin celare 'to hide', with re- reinforcing a guarded, watchful stance rather than a settled belief.
Usage tips
- Use recelo to describe a personal, cautious suspicion; for stronger, sustained distrust prefer desconfianza.