chip

nounmB1

microchip?electronic component,integrated circuit?technical term

📝 In Action

Necesitamos cambiar el chip de memoria del ordenador.

We need to change the memory chip in the computer.

Este nuevo chip es más rápido y consume menos energía.

This new chip is faster and uses less energy.

La tarjeta de crédito tiene un chip de seguridad.

The credit card has a security chip.

Word Connections

Synonyms

microchip (microchip)
circuito (circuit)

Common Collocations

chip de silicio – silicon chip
chip inteligente – smart chip

💡 Grammar Points

Gender of Loanwords

Even though 'chip' is a foreign word, it is almost always treated as masculine in Spanish: 'el chip'.

❌ Common Pitfalls

Using the Feminine Article

Mistake: "La chip"

Correction: El chip. Remember to use the masculine article 'el' or 'un'.

⭐ Usage Tips

Formal Alternatives

While 'chip' is common, in very formal or technical writing, you might see 'microchip' or 'circuito integrado' used instead.

✏️ Quick Practice

💡 Quick Quiz: chip

Question 1 of 1

Which of these objects contains a 'chip' in the technological sense?

📚 More Resources

Word Family

microchip(microchip) - noun

chipear(to chip/to implant a chip (often used for pets)) - verb

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 'chip' a formal Spanish word?

Yes and no. In technology, 'chip' is widely accepted and used in formal contexts. However, when referring to the snack food, it is considered informal slang or commercial language; native terms like 'papas fritas' are usually preferred in general conversation.

How do I say 'fish and chips'?

You should not use 'chips' here. For the British dish 'fish and chips,' the Spanish translation usually uses 'patatas fritas' (for the thick-cut fries): 'pescado con patatas fritas'.