escritorio
/es-kree-TOH-ryo/
desk
The most common translation of 'escritorio' is the piece of furniture used for work or study: the desk.
📝 In Action
Mi nuevo escritorio tiene tres cajones grandes.
A1My new desk has three large drawers.
Dejé las llaves encima del escritorio.
A1I left the keys on top of the desk.
💡 Grammar Points
Gender Check
Remember that 'escritorio' is masculine, so you always use 'el' or 'un' before it: 'el escritorio' (the desk).
⭐ Usage Tips
Pronunciation Tip
The stress falls on the second-to-last syllable: es-kri-TO-rio. The 'o' at the end is pronounced clearly, unlike in some English words.
In the world of computers, 'escritorio' refers to the graphical user interface known as the desktop.
📝 In Action
El icono de la aplicación está en el escritorio.
A2The application icon is on the desktop.
Necesito cambiar el fondo de mi escritorio.
A2I need to change my desktop background.
💡 Grammar Points
Context is Key
When talking about computers, 'escritorio' almost always refers to the main screen where files and icons are kept.
In some contexts, 'escritorio' can also be used to mean the entire place of work or bureau, the office.
📝 In Action
El director tiene su escritorio en el piso superior.
B1The director has his office on the top floor.
Debes dirigirte al escritorio de atención al cliente.
B2You should go to the customer service office (or bureau).
💡 Grammar Points
Formal Use
This meaning is often used in official or administrative language when referring to a specific department or location.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: escritorio
Question 1 of 2
Which English word is NOT a correct translation for 'escritorio'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'escritorio' and 'mesa'?
'Mesa' is a general term for 'table,' usually used for eating or general use. 'Escritorio' is specific: it’s a 'desk,' designed and used primarily for writing, working, or using a computer.
How do I know if 'escritorio' means the desk or the computer desktop?
The context usually makes it clear. If you use verbs like 'guardar' (to save) or 'descargar' (to download), you are talking about the computer desktop. If you use verbs like 'sentarse' (to sit) or 'limpiar' (to clean the surface), you mean the furniture.