motel
moh-tel
/moˈtel/
📝 In Action
Necesitamos parar en el primer motel que veamos, estoy muy cansado.
A2We need to stop at the first motel we see, I am very tired.
El motel tenía estacionamiento privado y era muy discreto.
B1The motel had private parking and was very discreet.
En muchos países, la palabra 'motel' no significa lo mismo que 'hotel'.
B2In many countries, the word 'motel' does not mean the same thing as 'hotel'.
💡 Grammar Points
Gender Rule
Even though this word ends in 'l', it is masculine. Remember to use 'el' or 'un' before it: 'El motel es caro'.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Confusing Motel and Hotel
Mistake: “Using 'motel' when you mean a standard, overnight family hotel.”
Correction: Use 'hotel' for standard lodging. In many places, 'motel' implies a specific kind of short-stay, private accommodation.
⭐ Usage Tips
Cultural Context is Key
If you are traveling in Latin America and need a regular place to sleep for the night, always ask for an 'hotel' to avoid misunderstandings about the type of stay you are looking for.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: motel
Question 1 of 1
If you are in Mexico City and need a standard place to sleep for a week, which word should you use to avoid confusion?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'motel' always masculine?
Yes, 'motel' is a masculine noun. You always use 'el' or 'un' before it, as in 'El motel es nuevo' (The motel is new).
What is the main difference between 'motel' and 'hotel' in Spanish?
While both offer lodging, 'hotel' is the general term for standard, overnight accommodation. 'Motel,' especially in Latin America, usually refers to a specific type of establishment rented for short, private stays (often by the hour) and is usually not used for family travel.