componente
“componente” means “component” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
component
Also: element, ingredient
📝 In Action
Necesitamos comprar un componente nuevo para la computadora.
A2We need to buy a new component for the computer.
El componente humano es vital para el éxito de la empresa.
B1The human element is vital for the company's success.
Esta medicina tiene un componente activo muy fuerte.
B2This medicine has a very strong active ingredient.
constituent
Also: component
📝 In Action
Debemos analizar las partes componentes del sistema.
C1We must analyze the constituent parts of the system.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: componente
Question 1 of 3
If you are fixing a broken radio and need a specific part, what would you ask for?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'componens', which is the 'doing' form of the verb 'componere', meaning 'to put together' or 'to arrange'.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'componente' always masculine?
In 99% of cases, yes. Even when describing a female member of a music group, most people still use 'el componente' to refer to the 'member' role, though 'la componente' is technically possible in some regions to specify gender.
What is the difference between 'parte' and 'componente'?
'Parte' is a general word for any piece of anything. 'Componente' is more specific and usually refers to a part that performs a function within a larger system or machine.
Can I use 'componente' for cooking ingredients?
Yes, but it sounds very scientific. If you are talking to a friend about a cake, use 'ingrediente'. If you are looking at the chemical makeup of a processed food label, 'componente' fits well.