dispositivo
“dispositivo” means “device” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
device, gadget
Also: appliance, apparatus
📝 In Action
Este nuevo dispositivo móvil tiene una cámara increíble.
B1This new mobile device has an incredible camera.
Necesitas conectar el dispositivo a la red eléctrica para cargarlo.
B2You need to connect the device to the electrical grid to charge it.
El hospital utiliza un dispositivo especial para medir la presión arterial.
B2The hospital uses a special apparatus to measure blood pressure.
provision, ruling
Also: clause
📝 In Action
El dispositivo legal entrará en vigor el próximo mes.
C1The legal provision will come into effect next month.
Según el dispositivo del contrato, debemos pagar la multa.
C2According to the clause/provision of the contract, we must pay the fine.
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "dispositivo" in Spanish:
apparatus→appliance→clause→device→gadget→provision→ruling→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: dispositivo
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'dispositivo' in its formal, legal sense?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
It comes from the Latin word 'dispositus', which is the past form of 'disponere'. This meant 'to arrange', 'to put in order', or 'to set out'. This origin explains both meanings: a device is a set of arranged parts, and a legal provision is an arranged rule.
First recorded: 15th century (in Spanish with a similar meaning)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
¿Es 'dispositivo' un sinónimo de 'herramienta'?
Sometimes, but not always. A 'dispositivo' is usually a complex machine or system (like a smartphone or a security camera). A 'herramienta' (tool) is often a simpler object used for manual work (like a hammer or a wrench).
How do I know if I should say 'dispositivo' or 'aparato'?
'Dispositivo' is currently the most popular and modern word for electronic gadgets. 'Aparato' is slightly more general and can refer to older or less high-tech machinery, but they are often interchangeable.