ciencia
/SYEN-see-ah (Latin America) or thee-EN-thee-ah (Spain)/
science
Ciencia refers to the systematic field of study dedicated to understanding the natural world (science).
📝 In Action
La ciencia nos ayuda a entender el universo.
A2Science helps us understand the universe.
Mi hermano estudia ciencias de la computación en la universidad.
B1My brother studies computer science at the university.
El método científico es la base de toda ciencia moderna.
B2The scientific method is the basis of all modern science.
💡 Grammar Points
Feminine Article Rule
Even though many abstract nouns are masculine, 'ciencia' is always feminine. Remember to use 'la ciencia' and not 'el ciencia'.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Using 'la' vs. 'el'
Mistake: "El ciencia es difícil."
Correction: La ciencia es difícil. (It's a feminine noun, so use 'la'.)
⭐ Usage Tips
Plural Usage
When talking about different branches (like biology and chemistry), use the plural 'ciencias' (sciences).
Ciencia can also mean deep knowledge or awareness gained through experience and study.
📝 In Action
No podemos saber a ciencia cierta quién fue el culpable.
B2We cannot know for certain who the culprit was. (Literally: 'to certain knowledge')
Ese carpintero tiene mucha ciencia en el manejo de la madera.
C1That carpenter has great skill in handling wood.
💡 Grammar Points
Idiomatic Use
This meaning of 'ciencia' is almost exclusively used in the fixed phrase 'a ciencia cierta' to express certainty or lack thereof.
⭐ Usage Tips
Focus on the Phrase
If you hear 'a ciencia cierta,' translate it as 'for sure.' Avoid using 'ciencia' alone to mean 'knowledge' in modern conversation, as it sounds very formal.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: ciencia
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses the most common, B1-level meaning of 'ciencia'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'ciencia' related to the word 'consciencia' (consciousness)?
Yes, they share the same Latin root *scientia* (knowledge/knowing). 'Ciencia' focuses on external, organized knowledge, while 'consciencia' focuses on internal knowledge or awareness.