Spanish Words That Start With C: Common Words You Need

Spanish has tons of words starting with "c." Instead of memorizing lists, focus on the high-frequency ones you'll actually say. Here’s your practical guide.

Top Words Starting With C

Essential Verbs

• comer (to eat)
• comprar (to buy)
• conocer (to know/meet)
• creer (to believe)
• caminar (to walk)
• correr (to run)
• cocinar (to cook)

Everyday Nouns

• casa (house/home)
• coche/carro (car)
• ciudad (city)
• clase (class)
• comida (food)
• café (coffee)
• calle (street)
• compañero (companion/colleague)

Useful Adjectives

• cerca (close/near)
• lejos (far) — bonus: the opposite
• contento (happy/content)
• cansado (tired)
• claro (clear)

Key Distinction: Conocer vs Saber

Both mean "to know," but:

• Conocer = to know (be familiar with) a person, place, or thing
• Saber = to know facts or how to do something

Example: "Conozco Madrid" (I know Madrid) vs "Sé español" (I know Spanish).

Common Phrases

• Vamos a comer — Let's eat
• Estoy cansado/a — I'm tired
• ¿Dónde está la calle? — Where is the street?
• Creo que... — I think/believe that...
• Cerca de — Near to

Quick Practice (5 Minutes)

1. Use "comer," "comprar," and "cocinar" in sentences.
2. Practice "conocer" vs "saber" with 3 examples each.
3. Describe locations using "cerca" and "lejos."

Memory Hack

"Comer," "comida," "cocinar," and "café" are all food-related—group them. Contextual learning beats random lists.

Build Your Vocabulary Naturally

Instead of flashcards, practice these "c" words in real conversations. Get corrections as you speak, learn usage in context, and watch vocabulary stick. Start chatting with Parlai and use these words in natural exchanges.