atmósfera
/aht-MOHS-feh-rah/
atmosphere
The atmósfera is the layer of gases that surrounds a planet.
atmósfera(noun)
atmosphere
?layer of gases surrounding a planet
air
?general term for the surrounding air
📝 In Action
La capa de ozono protege la atmósfera de la Tierra.
A2The ozone layer protects the Earth's atmosphere.
El cohete salió de la atmósfera en pocos minutos.
B1The rocket left the atmosphere in a few minutes.
💡 Grammar Points
Feminine Noun Rule
Even though 'atmósfera' ends in '-a' and has the stress on the 'o,' it is a feminine noun. Always use 'la atmósfera' or 'una atmósfera'.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Gender Confusion
Mistake: "El atmósfera está contaminado."
Correction: La atmósfera está contaminada. (Remember it's feminine.)
⭐ Usage Tips
Science Context
This meaning is often used when discussing ecology, space, or weather reports.
The warm lighting and comfortable setting create a relaxing atmósfera (mood or feeling) in the room.
atmósfera(noun)
atmosphere
?mood or feeling of a place
,ambiance
?the character and feeling of a place
vibe
?informal feeling
📝 In Action
El café tiene una atmósfera muy acogedora y tranquila.
B1The cafe has a very cozy and calm atmosphere.
La atmósfera en la oficina era tensa después de la reunión.
B2The atmosphere in the office was tense after the meeting.
💡 Grammar Points
Describing the Mood
When using 'atmósfera' to describe a feeling, you will often pair it with adjectives like 'relajada' (relaxed), 'tensa' (tense), 'acogedora' (cozy), or 'fría' (cold).
⭐ Usage Tips
Figurative Use
This meaning is an easy way to describe the 'vibe' of a social situation or location, much like in English. Use it to sound more natural when describing your surroundings.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: atmósfera
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'atmósfera' to describe a social feeling, not a scientific layer?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
¿Es 'atmósfera' masculino o femenino?
'Atmósfera' es siempre femenino. Aunque termina en '-a' y el acento no está en la última sílaba, siempre decimos 'la atmósfera'.
How do I use 'atmósfera' to talk about the weather?
You usually pair it with the adjective 'atmosférico' (atmospheric). For example, 'fenómenos atmosféricos' means 'atmospheric phenomena' (like storms or rain).