química
/KEE-mee-kah/
chemistry
Química as a science: A simple illustration of a chemical reaction happening inside a lab flask.
📝 In Action
La química es una materia obligatoria en la escuela secundaria.
A2Chemistry is a mandatory subject in high school.
Necesitamos analizar la química del agua para ver si es potable.
B1We need to analyze the chemistry of the water to see if it is drinkable.
💡 Grammar Points
Gender Rule Exception
Even though 'química' starts with a stressed 'a' sound, it follows the normal feminine rule because the stress is on the 'i' (quÍmica), so you always use 'la' (la química).
⭐ Usage Tips
Subject vs. Result
Remember 'química' is the study of matter, while 'producto químico' (chemical product) is the physical result of that study.
Química describing a spark: The feeling of connection or 'chemistry' between two people is visualized by a glowing spark jumping between them.
química(noun)
chemistry
?interpersonal connection, spark
rapport
?mutual understanding
,vibe
?feeling or atmosphere (informal)
📝 In Action
Se nota la química entre ellos; ríen todo el tiempo.
B1You can notice the chemistry between them; they laugh all the time.
Aunque la película era mala, la química del elenco era increíble.
B2Even though the movie was bad, the cast's chemistry was incredible.
Para un buen equipo, la química personal es tan importante como las habilidades.
C1For a good team, personal chemistry is as important as skills.
💡 Grammar Points
Using 'Haber' for Existence
When talking about having chemistry, Spanish usually uses a form of 'haber' (hay, hubo) to say that the connection 'exists' between people: 'Hay química entre nosotros' (There is chemistry between us).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Direct Translation Error
Mistake: "Decir 'Tenemos química' (We have chemistry, using 'tener')."
Correction: Aunque se entiende, es más natural decir 'Hay química entre nosotros' (There is chemistry between us), focusing on the shared existence of the connection rather than the possession of it.
⭐ Usage Tips
The 'Spark'
This meaning is often used to describe the initial, exciting 'spark' or attraction between two people, especially in romantic or dating contexts.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: química
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'química' to mean 'a personal connection'?
📚 More Resources
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.