vías
/VEE-ahs/
tracks
Vías (tracks) are essential for trains to travel safely.
📝 In Action
El tren se detuvo porque había un problema en las vías.
A2The train stopped because there was a problem on the tracks.
La policía cerró las vías principales por el accidente.
B1The police closed the main lanes due to the accident.
Construyeron nuevas vías para bicicletas en la ciudad.
B1They built new routes for bicycles in the city.
💡 Grammar Points
Plural Form of Vía
Remember that 'vías' is the plural of 'vía' (way/road), which is a feminine word. Always use feminine articles (las vías) and adjectives with it.
⭐ Usage Tips
Context is Key
In Latin America, 'vías' almost always refers to roads or traffic lanes. In Spain, it is very commonly used for train tracks (vías férreas).
Finding the best vías (means or method) is necessary to reach a goal.
vías(noun)
means
?method or procedure
,channels
?official procedures
avenues
?figurative paths
,routes
?figurative methods
📝 In Action
Debemos resolver este conflicto por vías diplomáticas.
B2We must resolve this conflict through diplomatic channels (or means).
No hay otras vías para conseguir la aprobación; este es el único método.
C1There are no other means to get approval; this is the only method.
💡 Grammar Points
Using 'Por vías'
When referring to the method used to achieve something, 'vías' is often used with the preposition 'por' (by/through), as in 'por vías oficiales' (through official channels).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Confusing Means and Tracks
Mistake: "Using 'vías' to mean 'means' in a context where 'medios' would sound more natural for a non-official method."
Correction: Use 'vías' for established, official, or formal channels (e.g., diplomatic, legal). Use 'medios' for general methods.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: vías
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'vías' to mean a method or channel, rather than a physical path?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'vías' always plural?
Yes, 'vías' is the plural form of the noun 'vía' (way/road). You use 'vía' when talking about a single path or method, and 'vías' when talking about multiple paths, tracks, or channels.
How is 'vías' related to the word 'calle' (street)?
'Vías' is a broader term. 'Vías' often refers to major infrastructure (highways, train tracks, main arteries), whereas 'calle' usually means a smaller, more common street within a city or town.