otra

Otra is the feminine singular form of the Spanish determiner and adjective otro, meaning "other" or "another." The masculine singular is otro; the plural forms are otros (masculine) and otras (feminine). As a determiner, otra accompanies a feminine noun: por ejemplo, otra casa, otra persona. As a pronoun, it can stand for “the other one/ones,” often with a definite article: la otra, las otras.

Common uses include indicating a different item or an additional one: ¿Quieres otra taza? (Do you want another cup?) or probar otra opción (try another option). It also appears in set phrases that express frequency or repetition, such as otra vez (again) and de otra manera (in another way). Equivalents like otra cosa mean “something else.” These expressions help convey contrast, replacement, or alternative choices.

Grammatical notes: otra must agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies. When used as a pronoun, it typically pairs with definite articles (la, las, los, las) to specify which item is being referred to. In more general statements, it can introduce indefinite contrasts, as in "hay otra forma de hacerlo" (there is another way to do it).

Etymology: otra derives from the Latin alter, with feminine form altera, which evolved into the Spanish form used today. Its use is widespread across Spanish dialects, though regional preferences may vary in tone and frequency.

Overall, otra functions as a versatile word for indicating difference, replacement, or addition, tied to the gender and number of the noun it accompanies.