When do I use 'uno' versus 'un'?

The form 'un' appears directly before a masculine noun (un libro, un gato), while 'uno' is used when the number stands alone, as in counting or when no noun follows immediately.

Does 'uno' have a feminine form?

The feminine form is 'una,' which is used before feminine nouns and also when 'one' stands alone referring to a feminine object or concept, as in '¿Cuántas sillas? Solo una.'

Can 'uno' mean 'you' in an impersonal sense?

Spanish speakers often use 'uno' as an impersonal pronoun meaning 'one' or 'you' in general statements, such as 'uno nunca sabe' (one never knows), similar to the English impersonal 'you.'

Spanish vocabulary · Beginner

How to Say One in Spanish: Uno

Written by Sofia Ramirez, Lead Spanish Curriculum Editor · Reviewed May 2026

Uno · numeral · OO-noh

The Spanish word for one is 'uno,' the first cardinal number. It changes form depending on context: 'un' before masculine nouns, 'una' before feminine nouns, and 'uno' when standing alone or counting. Mastering these forms is essential for basic Spanish communication.

Pronounce 'uno' as OO-noh with stress on the first syllable. The shortened form 'un' sounds like oon.

Solo queda uno en la tienda.

There is only one left in the store.

One in Spanish: Quick Reference

Below are the most common Spanish words for one, with pronunciation and regional usage notes.

Spanish	English	Pronunciation	Region / Register
uno	one	OO-noh	Default, widely understood
una	one		feminine form before feminine nouns
un	one		shortened form before masculine nouns

How Native Speakers Use Uno

Real example sentences across three contexts you'll actually run into.

Counting

Uno, dos, tres... ¡ya!

One, two, three... go!

Starting a countdown or race.

Ordering quantity

Deme un café con leche, por favor.

Give me one coffee with milk, please.

Ordering a single item at a café.

Expressing unity

Somos uno, no importa la distancia.

We are one, no matter the distance.

Expressing togetherness or solidarity.

Avoid These Mistakes When Using Uno

Not shortening before masculine nouns

Incorrect: Tengo uno perro en casa.

Correct: Tengo un perro en casa.

Before a masculine noun, 'uno' shortens to 'un.' Saying 'uno perro' sounds unnatural and is grammatically incorrect.

Using 'un' with feminine nouns

Incorrect: Compré un mesa nueva.

Correct: Compré una mesa nueva.

Feminine nouns require 'una,' not 'un.' The form changes based on the gender of the following noun.

Lock in One Vocabulary with the Parrot Method

Why word lists alone don't stick

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See Uno used by native speakers

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Common Questions About One in Spanish

When do I use 'uno' versus 'un'?: The form 'un' appears directly before a masculine noun (un libro, un gato), while 'uno' is used when the number stands alone, as in counting or when no noun follows immediately.
Does 'uno' have a feminine form?: The feminine form is 'una,' which is used before feminine nouns and also when 'one' stands alone referring to a feminine object or concept, as in '¿Cuántas sillas? Solo una.'
Can 'uno' mean 'you' in an impersonal sense?: Spanish speakers often use 'uno' as an impersonal pronoun meaning 'one' or 'you' in general statements, such as 'uno nunca sabe' (one never knows), similar to the English impersonal 'you.'