Inklingo

How to Say "booster" in Spanish

English → Spanish

acelerador

/ah-seh-leh-rah-dor//aseleɾaˈðoɾ/

nounB2general
Use 'acelerador' when the 'booster' specifically refers to something that increases speed, growth, or progress in a process or system.
A drop of bright liquid falling into a beaker, causing a vibrant and energetic reaction.

Examples

La inversión en energías renovables fue un acelerador clave para la transición energética.

Investment in renewable energy was a key booster for the energy transition.

La nueva ley fue un acelerador para la economía del país.

The new law was a catalyst for the country's economy.

Estamos usando un acelerador químico para que la pintura seque rápido.

We are using a chemical accelerator so the paint dries fast.

El acelerador de partículas es una maravilla de la ingeniería.

The particle accelerator is a marvel of engineering.

Figurative Language

Just like in English, you can use physical objects to describe abstract ideas. Using 'acelerador' for 'progress' sounds very professional.

Gender confusion

Mistake: “La acelerador de partículas.”

Correction: El acelerador de partículas.

estimulante

/es-tee-moo-LAHN-teh//estimuˈlante/

nounB2general
Use 'estimulante' when the 'booster' refers to something that provides a push or encourages activity, often in a more abstract or biological sense.
A steaming cup of coffee with bright, energetic swirls rising from it.

Examples

El anuncio de nuevos contratos fue un estimulante para el ánimo del equipo.

The announcement of new contracts was a booster for the team's morale.

La cafeína es un estimulante natural.

Caffeine is a natural stimulant.

El gobierno ofreció un estimulante para las pequeñas empresas.

The government offered a booster/incentive for small businesses.

Muchos atletas tienen prohibido el uso de estimulantes.

Many athletes are forbidden from using stimulants.

Gender of the substance

When referring to a substance or a chemical, 'estimulante' is almost always masculine ('el estimulante').

Don't confuse with 'estímulo'

Mistake: “El perro respondió al estimulante.”

Correction: El perro respondió al estímulo. Use 'estímulo' for a specific signal or trigger, and 'estimulante' for a substance like caffeine.

Focus on Speed vs. Energy

Learners often confuse these by thinking of 'booster' as simply 'something that helps'. Remember that 'acelerador' focuses on increasing speed or growth, while 'estimulante' is more about providing energy or encouraging action.

Related Translations

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