In Spanish we use "cada uno de" or "cada una de" followed by a noun (with determiners) or a pronoun, to express "each one of".
Learn how to use cada uno de in Spanish
Have a look at the following examples:
Notice how:
- When referring to a masculine noun we use "cada uno" (invitados) and when referring to a feminine noun we use "cada una" (amigas).
- The noun is always accompanied by determiners like possessives (mis, tus, sus...), demonstratives (estos, esas, aquellos...) in the plural form.
Here are some other examples:
Andalucía tiene 8 provincias. Cada una de esas provincias tiene unas características diferentes.Andalusia has 8 provinces. Each of those provinces has different characteristics.
When cada uno/a de is followed by a noun, you could easily say the same with cada + noun. Using the longer structure simply reinforces the meaning of "cada" (every/each). For example:
Cada concursante tuvo que pasar por una prueba.
Cada uno de los concursantes tuvo que pasar por una prueba.
But remember that in the first shorter structure the noun is always singular, not plural (cada concursante, not cada concursantes).
When cada uno/a de is followed by a pronoun, this shorter version is not possible, just like in English.
Cada uno de ellos trajo un regalo.
Each one of them brought a present.
BUT
Cada ellos trajo un regalo.
Each them brought a present.
See also Quantitative adjective in Spanish: cada + noun for each (Adjetivo cuantitativo)
Want to make sure your Spanish sounds confident? We’ll map your knowledge and give you free lessons to focus on your gaps and mistakes. Start your Brainmap today »
Learn more about these related Spanish grammar topics
Examples and resources
Hubo 30 invitados en mi fiesta y cada uno de ellos trajo un regalo.There were 30 guests at my party and each one of them brought a present.
Estuve en un hotel muy bonito. Cada una de las habitaciones estaba decorada con un estilo particular.I was in a very pretty hotel. Each one of the rooms was decorated in a particular style.
