eléctrico
/eh-LEK-tree-koh/
electric
Depicting something related to electric power or current.
eléctrico(adjective)
electric
?related to power/current
,electrical
?related to equipment/systems
powered
?describing a device
📝 In Action
Necesitamos un cable eléctrico nuevo para la lámpara.
A1We need a new electrical cable for the lamp.
El coche eléctrico es más caro, pero gasta menos gasolina.
A2The electric car is more expensive, but it uses less gasoline.
Hay que apagar todos los aparatos eléctricos antes de salir.
A1You have to turn off all electrical appliances before leaving.
💡 Grammar Points
Adjective Agreement
As an adjective, 'eléctrico' must match the noun it describes in gender (masculine/feminine) and number (singular/plural). For example: 'aparato eléctrico' (masculine singular) vs. 'instalación eléctrica' (feminine singular).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Using the wrong gender
Mistake: "La coche eléctrico (The electric car)."
Correction: The word 'coche' is masculine, so you must say 'El coche eléctrico'.
⭐ Usage Tips
When to use 'eléctrico'
Use 'eléctrico' when the object is designed to use or transmit electricity (coche eléctrico, cable eléctrico). Use 'de electricidad' to talk about the source or service (factura de electricidad - electricity bill).
Illustrating a highly charged or tense atmosphere or mood.
eléctrico(adjective)
highly charged
?describing atmosphere or mood
,electric
?figurative, exciting
tense
?referring to a situation
📝 In Action
El ambiente en el estadio era eléctrico antes de que empezara el concierto.
B2The atmosphere in the stadium was electric before the concert began.
Tuvieron un debate muy eléctrico sobre el futuro de la empresa.
C1They had a very heated/electric debate about the future of the company.
💡 Grammar Points
Figurative Use
This meaning is often paired with nouns like 'ambiente' (atmosphere), 'debate' (debate), or 'mirada' (look) to emphasize intensity or energy, just like in English.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: eléctrico
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses the feminine form of 'eléctrico'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'eléctrico' ever refer to a person?
The word for the person who works with electricity is the noun 'electricista' (electrician). However, you could say 'un técnico eléctrico' (an electrical technician).
How do I ensure I use the correct ending (-o or -a)?
'Eléctrico' is an adjective, so it must always match the gender of the noun it describes. If the noun is feminine (like 'luz' or 'corriente'), use 'eléctrica'. If the noun is masculine (like 'cable' or 'motor'), use 'eléctrico'.