Spanish 101: Before we Dive in
Before we dive into picking up where I left off with Spanish, there are a couple things that need to be addressed before the language learning can begin.
What Type of Spanish will I be Learning?
Since one of my motivations for becoming fluent in Spanish is to be able to speak with my family who live in Spain, I will be learning Castilian Spanish, otherwise known as Castellano.
Photo by Fotografía creativa: Spanish National Flag Against Clear Blue Sky · Free Stock Photo
What’s the Difference between Castilian and Latin American Spanish?
Other than geographical differences, Castilian and Latin American Spanish differ in pronunciation, vocabulary and slang. I think of it as being the same concept of how British English is different to American or Australian English.
For Instance…
| Castellano | Latin American |
- C (before i & e) and Z are pronounced like the English “Th”
- ceceo
- i.e. gracias = grathias
- “You” plural = Vosotros
- A Baguette = Una Barra de pan
- etc.
- C is pronounced like the English “S” or “soft C” as in City or Cycle
- seseo
- i.e. gracias = grasias / gracias
- “You” plural = Ustedes
- A Baguette = Una Baguette
- etc.
I’ve provided a few links, which go further into depth about the the differences and other information that may be useful for understanding or help you decide which dialect to choose if you wish to learn too!
Latin American Spanish vs Spain Spanish
10 Differences Between Castilian Spanish and Latin American Spanish