Spanish Phrase
Soy vegetariano/a
Meaning
This sentence means “I am vegetarian.” It declares a lasting personal characteristic—your dietary choice. The slash indicates you can choose the masculine or feminine ending depending on your gender.
When to use
Use this phrase when introducing yourself, answering questions about your diet, or explaining why you avoid meat in a conversation or on a menu.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Soyvegetariano/a
Ser (Soy)
The verb 'ser' is used for permanent traits and identity; 'soy' is the first person singular present.
Adjective Agreement
The adjective 'vegetariano' must match the speaker's gender: 'vegetariano' for males, 'vegetariana' for females.
Optional Gender Marker (/a)
Writing 'vegetariano/a' is a shorthand to include both masculine and feminine forms in written Spanish.
🗨In Conversation
¿Comes carne?
Do you eat meat?
No, soy vegetariano/a.
No, I'm vegetarian.
✕Common Mistakes
Estoy vegetariano.
Use 'ser' (soy) for permanent identity, not 'estar'.
Soy vegetarian.
Spanish uses 'vegetariano/a', not the English word.
Soy vegetariano (said by a woman).
If you are female, the adjective must agree: 'vegetariana'.
↔Alternatives
Soy vegano/a
I am vegan.
No como carne
I don't eat meat.
Soy vegetariano/a por salud
I am vegetarian for health reasons.
Cultural Tip
Vegetarianism is growing in many Spanish‑speaking countries, especially in urban areas and among younger people. In some regions, you might hear the informal phrase “no como carne” more often than the formal “soy vegetariano/a.” When ordering, it’s helpful to say “soy vegetariano/a” so the staff knows you need meat‑free options, but also be ready to specify if you avoid fish (pescetarian) or dairy (lacto‑vegetarian).