How to Say "automatic" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “automatic” is “automático” — use 'automático' when referring to a device, machine, or process that operates by itself without direct human intervention..
English → Spanish
automático
adjectiveA1general
Use 'automático' when referring to a device, machine, or process that operates by itself without direct human intervention.
Examples
El coche tiene transmisión automática.
The car has an automatic transmission.
mecánico
adjectiveB1general
Use 'mecánico' to describe an action or process that is done routinely, habitually, or without conscious thought, often implying a lack of engagement.
Examples
Su respuesta fue puramente mecánica, sin emoción.
His response was purely mechanical, without emotion.
Automatic vs. Mechanical Action
Learners often confuse 'automático' and 'mecánico' by using 'mecánico' for machines. Remember that 'automático' refers to machines operating on their own, while 'mecánico' describes actions done without thinking.
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