Inklingo
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código

/KO-dee-goh/

code

A unique, decorative antique key lying next to a small, locked wooden chest, representing a secret key or combination.

A physical key or combination serves as a secret código used to unlock something.

código(noun)

mA1

code

?

a secret number or key

Also:

PIN

?

personal identification number

,

access key

?

for doors or systems

📝 In Action

¿Cuál es el código para desbloquear tu teléfono?

A1

What is the code to unlock your phone?

Necesitas introducir tu código de seguridad en el cajero automático.

A2

You need to enter your security code at the ATM.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • clave (key/password)
  • número (number)

Common Collocations

  • código postal – zip code
  • código de barras – barcode

❌ Common Pitfalls

Confusing 'código' with 'clave'

Mistake: "Using 'código' when you mean a text password."

Correction: Use 'clave' or 'contraseña' for text passwords (like logging into an email account). Use 'código' mostly for numeric or short access sequences.

⭐ Usage Tips

Asking for the Code

When asking for an identification number, using 'código' (e.g., 'código postal') is common and understood by everyone.

A serious figure wearing a formal robe standing next to a massive, closed law book, symbolizing a system of rules.

A código can define a system of laws or rules.

código(noun)

mB1

code

?

a system of laws or rules

Also:

statute

?

legal document

,

set of rules

?

conduct or ethics

📝 In Action

El código penal establece las leyes sobre los crímenes.

B2

The penal code establishes the laws regarding crimes.

Debemos seguir el código de vestimenta en la oficina.

B1

We must follow the dress code in the office.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • reglamento (regulation)
  • norma (rule)

Common Collocations

  • código civil – civil code
  • código ético – ethical code

⭐ Usage Tips

Formal Language

In this meaning, 'código' usually appears with an adjective like 'civil', 'penal', or 'de conducta' to specify the type of rules.

Abstract glowing lines of green and blue digital data flowing rapidly across a dark surface, symbolizing programming instructions.

Programming instructions are a form of código.

código(noun)

mB2

code

?

programming instructions

Also:

source code

?

the written instructions for software

📝 In Action

El error está en una línea del código fuente.

B2

The error is in a line of the source code.

Aprender a escribir código es una habilidad muy útil.

C1

Learning to write code is a very useful skill.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • programación (programming)

Common Collocations

  • escribir código – to write code
  • código abierto – open source

💡 Grammar Points

Related Verb

The action of creating code is 'codificar' (to code/encode). For computer science, you might also hear 'programar' (to program).

✏️ Quick Practice

💡 Quick Quiz: código

Question 1 of 2

Which translation of 'código' is used when talking about computer software?

📚 More Resources

Word Family

codificar(to code/encode) - verb
codificación(coding/encoding) - noun

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does 'código' have an accent mark?

The accent mark on the first 'o' ('có') is crucial because it tells you exactly where to put the stress when you say the word: CÓ-di-go. Without it, the natural Spanish rule would place the stress on the last syllable, making it sound like co-DI-go, which would be incorrect.

Can 'código' be used as a verb?

No, 'código' itself is only a noun. However, its related verb is 'codificar,' which means 'to code' or 'to encode.'