6 Spanish Words You WILL Mix Up (And how to stop!)

Описание: In the classroom, there are three words I have to write on the board more than any others. They are the "eye-roll" words—the ones students constantly mix up, leading to some very confusing (and sometimes hilarious) conversations!

In this video, I’m breaking down the two groups of three that every Spanish learner struggles with. Whether you're talking about a strong coffee, a house fire, or your car battery, you need to get these right!

What we cover in this "Cultural Insider" lesson:

The 3 "F-Words":

Fuego: Why it’s the last thing you'd ever want to hear if you were in front of the Spanish Inquisition!

Fuerte: Used for someone with a lot of strength or a "strong" coffee. I also share a warning about "Agua Fuerte"—the hydrochloric acid sold in every Spanish supermarket that dissolves cement and regulates pool pH. It's very strong stuff!

Fuera: The most important one of the lot. It means out, outside, or away. Whether you're telling the dog to get out, explaining that your wife is away on holiday, or choosing a table at a restaurant ("¿Dentro o fuera?"), this is the word you'll use most.

The 3 "Death" Words:

Murió vs. Muerto vs. Morir: Why students struggle to get these the right way around in their heads.

The Grammar Secret: I explain the preterite tense of "Murió" and the state of being "Muerto" (which even applies to your car battery).

Humour & Culture: Why we use "está" for death in Spain. Is it because of Catholic beliefs that death is temporary and you might be coming back as a ferret or a squirrel?

💡 INSIDER TIP: If you only remember one word from this video, make it FUERA. You’ll use it at every restaurant and every time you walk through your front door!

TIMESTAMPS:
0:00 The "Standard Joke" in the classroom
0:45 Fuego: More than just "Fire"
1:20 Fuerte: Strength and the "Agua Fuerte" warning
2:10 Fuera: The most versatile word in Spain
3:00 The Death Words: Murió vs. Muerto
3:45 Why "Dead" is a temporary state in Spanish culture
4:30 The one word you MUST memorise
James Spanish School: Speak Real Castellano

Ready to stop being a perpetual tourist and start speaking the Spanish that people actually use?

James Spanish School is the specialised online system for English-speaking expats who are serious about mastering Castellano. Developed over 25 years of face-to-face instruction in the heart of the community, this method is designed to get you speaking with confidence and clarity. I provide the linguistic tools you need to bypass the frustration of the expat bubble and navigate daily life using the language as it is actually spoken in Spain.

If you are tired of textbook Spanish that nobody uses in the street, it is time for a different approach. Join the hundreds of students who have already moved beyond basic phrases to achieve real fluency. Start your journey to speaking authentic Castellano today at:

https://jamesspanishschool.com

LEGAL DISCLAIMER

The content provided by James Spanish School is for educational and informational purposes only, focusing on the instruction of the Castellano language.

No Professional Advice: We do not provide legal, financial, tax, or residency advice. The information shared is of a general nature and should not be used as a substitute for professional counsel.

Consult a Professional: For specific administrative, financial, or legal matters regarding your life in Spain, always consult a qualified professional, such as a registered solicitor (Abogado) or administrative agent (Gestor).

No Liability: James Spanish School accepts no responsibility or liability for any actions taken or decisions made based on the information provided in this video.

Copyright © 2026 James Spanish School. All Rights Reserved.