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química

KEE-mee-kahˈki.mi.ka

“química” means “chemistry” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:

chemistry

Also: chemical composition
NounfA2
A glass Erlenmeyer flask containing a bubbling green liquid, representing the science of chemistry.

📝 In Action

La química es una materia obligatoria en la escuela secundaria.

A2

Chemistry is a mandatory subject in high school.

Necesitamos analizar la química del agua para ver si es potable.

B1

We need to analyze the chemistry of the water to see if it is drinkable.

Word Connections

Synonyms

Common Collocations

  • laboratorio de química – chemistry lab
  • examen de química – chemistry test

chemistry

Also: rapport, vibe
NounfB1
Two simple figures standing near each other, connected by a visible, bright yellow spark, symbolizing interpersonal chemistry.

📝 In Action

Se nota la química entre ellos; ríen todo el tiempo.

B1

You can notice the chemistry between them; they laugh all the time.

Aunque la película era mala, la química del elenco era increíble.

B2

Even though the movie was bad, the cast's chemistry was incredible.

Para un buen equipo, la química personal es tan importante como las habilidades.

C1

For a good team, personal chemistry is as important as skills.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • conexión (connection)
  • afinidad (affinity)

Antonyms

  • antipatía (dislike)

Common Collocations

  • tener química – to have chemistry
  • falta de química – lack of chemistry

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "química" in Spanish:

chemical composition→chemistry→

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: química

Question 1 of 2

Which sentence uses 'química' to mean 'a personal connection'?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
químico(chemist (noun) / chemical (adjective)) — Noun / Adjective
químicamente(chemically) — Adverb
🎵 Rhymes▼
dinámicaúnica
📚 Etymology▼

The word comes from the Medieval Latin *chimia* or *alchimia*. It traces back through Arabic and Greek roots, originally referring to the ancient practice of alchemy—the process of transforming substances, often with the goal of turning base metals into gold. The focus on the 'transformation of matter' remains in the modern scientific sense.

First recorded: Mid-17th century (in Spanish)

Cognates (Related words)

English: chemistryFrench: chimie

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is 'química' only used for romantic relationships?

No! While it's very common to talk about romantic 'química,' you can also use it for friendships, professional relationships, or even the dynamic between band members or sports players. It just means they click well together.

How do I know if 'química' refers to the science or the connection?

Look at the surrounding words. If you see words like 'laboratorio' (lab), 'molécula' (molecule), or 'clase' (class), it's the science. If you see words like 'personas' (people), 'actores' (actors), or 'sentir' (to feel), it's the connection.