Learn how to use the Spanish suffix -cito
In Spanish, instead of adding the adjective pequeño (small or little), we can use the diminutive suffix -cito, -cita, ‑citos or -citas with most words that end in -e, -n or -r. The suffix not only indicates a diminutive size, but in some cases, it can add a nuance of affection, or soften the meaning of the actual word.
With words ending in -e, -n or -r, the rule is generally to add these endings to the word:
Have a look:
| Masc sing | Fem sing | Masc pl | Fem pl |
| -cito | -cita | -citos | -citas |
Read and listen to these examples:
Notice how this suffix applies to nouns (fuente, calle, camión, amor), adjectives (verde) and adverbs (suave).
Here are some plural examples:
An exeption to this rule is the diminutive for caliente (hot): it loses its central -i- and final -e and uses the suffix -ito:
caliente → calientecito → calentito.
See also Diminutivo.
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