Wife
Literally 'woman', this is a very common and more casual way to say 'wife', similar to saying 'my woman' or 'my lady' in English. It's widely used in everyday conversation.
Literally 'lady' or 'Mrs.', this is often used to refer to someone else's wife respectfully, as in 'la señora de Carlos' (Carlos's wife). Some men also refer to their own wife as 'mi señora'.
My wife is from Colombia.
He is talking with his wife on the phone.
Pablo's wife is very nice.
What is your wife's name?
'Esposa' is the standard, neutral term. 'Mujer' is extremely common in casual, everyday speech.
'Mujer' is the most common word for wife in everyday conversation. 'Esposa' is also used but can sound more formal or legalistic.
Both 'esposa' and 'mujer' are used interchangeably and are very common. Referring to one's own wife as 'mi señora' is also frequent.
'Mujer' is much more common in daily conversation than 'esposa'. You will hear 'mi mujer' constantly.
Similar to Mexico, both 'esposa' and 'mujer' are standard. 'Señora' is also very common.
Using 'marida' for 'wife'. — English speakers sometimes assume 'marida' is the female version of 'marido' (husband). This word does not exist. The correct term is 'esposa' or 'mujer'.
Confusing 'esposa' (wife) with 'esposas' (handcuffs). — The plural form, 'esposas', means 'wives', but it is also the word for 'handcuffs'. This can cause funny mix-ups. For example, 'El policía busca a las esposas' could mean 'The police officer is looking for the wives' or '...for the handcuffs'.
Using 'esposa' in very casual situations where 'mujer' is more natural. — While 'esposa' is always correct, it can sound a bit formal. In many regions, friends talking casually would be more likely to say 'mi mujer'. Listen to how native speakers talk to get a feel for it.
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