fórmula
/FOR-moo-lah/
formula
A chemical fórmula dictates the precise ingredients and steps needed to create a compound, like a recipe.
fórmula(noun)
formula
?chemical composition, recipe, ingredients list
composition
?mixture of elements
,baby formula
?infant food
📝 In Action
Necesito la fórmula química para este experimento.
A2I need the chemical formula for this experiment.
La leche de fórmula es una alternativa a la leche materna.
A2Baby formula is an alternative to breast milk.
La fórmula de la bebida secreta es un misterio.
B1The formula for the secret drink is a mystery.
💡 Grammar Points
Gender Alert
Even though 'fórmula' ends in '-a', it is a feminine noun, so you must use 'la' or 'una' with it (La fórmula).
⭐ Usage Tips
Referring to Baby Food
When talking about feeding a baby, use 'la leche de fórmula' or simply 'la fórmula' (the formula).
A mathematical fórmula is a rule or equation used to define relationships or solve problems.
fórmula(noun)
formula
?mathematical rule, equation
equation
?algebraic expression
,principle
?basic rule
📝 In Action
La fórmula de la velocidad es distancia dividida por tiempo.
B1The formula for speed is distance divided by time.
El profesor escribió una fórmula compleja en la pizarra.
B1The professor wrote a complex formula on the whiteboard.
Usamos una fórmula diferente para calcular el área.
B2We use a different formula to calculate the area.
When used as 'method,' fórmula refers to a standardized procedure or approach used to achieve a goal.
fórmula(noun)
method
?standardized procedure or approach
strategy
?way to achieve success
,approach
?manner of doing something
📝 In Action
Su fórmula para el éxito es trabajo duro y disciplina.
B2His formula for success is hard work and discipline.
El equipo encontró la fórmula ganadora y no la cambiará.
B2The team found the winning formula and won't change it.
La nueva fórmula política no convenció a los votantes.
C1The new political strategy did not convince the voters.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Using the Wrong Article
Mistake: "El fórmula del éxito."
Correction: La fórmula del éxito. (Remember it is feminine.)
⭐ Usage Tips
Figurative Use
This meaning is often used figuratively, similar to English, to talk about a secret or guaranteed way to achieve a goal.
The term 'fórmula' is also used to refer to the popular motor racing sport, Formula 1.
📝 In Action
Vamos a ver la carrera de Fórmula 1 este domingo.
B2We are going to watch the Formula 1 race this Sunday.
Los coches de fórmula son extremadamente rápidos.
C1Formula cars are extremely fast.
⭐ Usage Tips
Abbreviation
In Spanish, it is very common to refer to the sport simply as 'la Fórmula' or 'F1'.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: fórmula
Question 1 of 2
Which meaning of 'fórmula' is used in the following sentence: 'La fórmula del éxito requiere más que suerte.'
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'fórmula' always feminine?
Yes, 'fórmula' is always a feminine noun, meaning you must use 'la' or 'una' before it (e.g., 'la fórmula', 'una fórmula').
How is 'fórmula' different from 'formulario'?
They are related words! 'Fórmula' means a recipe, rule, or method. 'Formulario' means a physical or digital document you fill out, like a registration form or questionnaire.