Escondido vs. oculto
The Spanish words 'escondido' and 'oculto' can both mean 'hidden' in English, but they are used in slightly different contexts. Below we explore these differences with various examples.
Escondido
The word 'escondido' typically refers to something that is physically hidden from view, often implying an element of intentional concealment.
El tesoro está escondido debajo del árbol.
(The treasure is hidden under the tree.)
El gato se quedó escondido en el armario durante la tormenta.
(The cat stayed hidden in the closet during the storm.)
Juan encontró un mensaje escondido entre las páginas del libro.
(Juan found a hidden message among the pages of the book.)
Oculto
The word 'oculto' often refers to something that is hidden more abstractly or metaphorically, suggesting it is not easily discovered or understood.
Hay un significado oculto detrás de sus palabras.
(There is a hidden meaning behind his words.)
El misterio ha permanecido oculto durante siglos.
(The mystery has remained hidden for centuries.)
Tiene un talento oculto para la música que nadie conocía.
(He has a hidden talent for music that no one knew about.)
Summary
'Escondido' usually refers to something that is physically concealed and often intentionally. 'Oculto', on the other hand, tends to refer to abstract or metaphorical hiding, not easily discovered. Both words convey a sense of being out of sight but are used in different contexts.