What it's NOT
zealous does NOT translate to celoso.
To say "celoso" in English, use jealous.
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False cognate · False friend
zealous
Does NOT mean celoso
It means enthusiastic / passionate
Written by Bryan López, English teacher · Updated
What it IS
zealous means enthusiastic / passionate.
Why it's confused
Spanish "celoso" is someone who feels romantic or possessive jealousy. English "zealous" is someone very passionate and enthusiastic about a cause or belief. Jealous in English is "jealous."
How it's pronounced
zealousZÉ-lus
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Examples of correct use
English
She's a zealous supporter.
Spanish
Es una seguidora entusiasta.
English
He's zealous about his work.
Spanish
Es muy ferviente con su trabajo.
A trick to remember it
Zealous = enthusiastic/passionate. Jealous (Spanish "celoso") = jealous.
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Frequently asked questions
What does "zealous" mean in English?
"Zealous" means "enthusiastic / passionate". It looks a lot like "celoso", which is exactly why it gets confused, but they don't mean the same thing.
How do you say "celoso" in English?
To say "celoso" in English, use "jealous". If you use "zealous" instead, you would actually be saying "enthusiastic / passionate".
Do "zealous" and "celoso" mean the same thing?
Spanish "celoso" is someone who feels romantic or possessive jealousy. English "zealous" is someone very passionate and enthusiastic about a cause or belief. Jealous in English is "jealous."
Other confusing false friends
More confusing false friends
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