choque
/CHOH-keh/
collision
Choque as 'collision' refers to a physical impact between objects.
choque(noun)
collision
?physical impact, accident
,crash
?traffic accident
impact
?force of hitting
📝 In Action
El choque entre los dos coches fue muy fuerte.
A1The collision between the two cars was very strong.
Llamaron a la policía después del choque.
A2They called the police after the crash.
El choque frontal dejó a los conductores heridos.
B1The head-on collision left the drivers injured.
💡 Grammar Points
Masculine Noun
Remember that 'choque' is always a masculine word, so you must use 'el' or 'un' before it.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Confusing 'choque' and 'chocar'
Mistake: "Using 'yo choque' when you mean 'yo choqué' (I crashed)."
Correction: 'Choque' is the noun (the crash itself). Use the verb 'chocar' (to crash) for actions.
⭐ Usage Tips
Use with 'tener' or 'sufrir'
You often say 'tener un choque' (to have a crash) or 'sufrir un choque' (to suffer a crash).
Choque can also mean 'shock', referring to a sudden emotional or medical state.
choque(noun)
shock
?emotional or medical state
,clash
?conflict of ideas or cultures
conflict
?opposition of groups or ideas
📝 In Action
Fue un choque cultural muy fuerte cuando llegó a la capital.
B1It was a very strong culture shock when she arrived in the capital.
El choque de ideologías provocó la ruptura del partido.
B2The clash of ideologies caused the breakup of the party.
El paciente entró en choque después de la operación.
C1The patient went into shock after the operation.
💡 Grammar Points
Figurative Use
When used figuratively, 'choque' still means a strong, sudden, negative impact, like a 'clash' of personalities or a 'shock' to your system.
⭐ Usage Tips
Cultural Contrast
When talking about moving to a new place, 'choque cultural' is the standard way to express 'culture shock'.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: choque
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence correctly uses 'choque' to mean a conflict, not a physical accident?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'choque' and 'accidente'?
'Choque' specifically means the impact or collision itself (the moment two things hit). 'Accidente' is the broader term for the overall unfortunate event, which often includes a 'choque' but can also refer to slips, falls, or other mishaps without a collision.
Can I use 'choque' for an electric shock?
Yes, absolutely! The phrase 'choque eléctrico' is the standard way to say 'electric shock' in Spanish.