Inklingo

How to Say "adjustment" in Spanish

English → Spanish

ajuste

/ah-HOOS-teh//aˈxuste/

nounA2mechanical or technical
Use 'ajuste' when referring to a physical or technical change, modification, or correction, often to a device or system.
A hand using a small screwdriver to turn a tiny screw on a pair of glasses.

Examples

Necesito hacer un pequeño ajuste en la configuración de mi teléfono.

I need to make a small adjustment to my phone's settings.

El mecánico hizo un ajuste en los frenos de la bicicleta.

The mechanic made an adjustment to the bike's brakes.

Sin un ajuste preciso, la máquina no funcionará correctamente.

Without a precise adjustment, the machine won't work correctly.

Always Masculine

Even if you are adjusting something feminine, like 'la silla' (the chair), the word 'ajuste' is always masculine: 'el ajuste'.

Connecting with 'de'

To say what you are adjusting, use the word 'de' (of) right after 'ajuste', such as 'ajuste de volumen' (volume adjustment).

Fixing vs. Adjusting

Mistake:Using 'ajuste' for a total repair.

Correction: Use 'reparación' for fixing something broken; use 'ajuste' for fine-tuning something that already works.

adaptación

nounB1general
Choose 'adaptación' when describing the process of getting used to new surroundings, conditions, or a new situation.

Examples

Su adaptación al nuevo país fue más difícil de lo que esperaba.

Their adjustment to the new country was harder than they expected.

regulación

nounB1mechanical or technical
Use 'regulación' when referring to the act of controlling or setting something, especially a system, device, or process, to a specific standard or level.

Examples

La regulación de la temperatura del horno es crucial para hornear.

The adjustment of the oven's temperature is crucial for baking.

Ajuste vs. Adaptación

The most common mistake is using 'ajuste' when you mean adapting to a new environment or situation. Remember, 'ajuste' is for making changes or fixes, while 'adaptación' is about getting accustomed to something.

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