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How to Say "borough" in Spanish

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distrito

dis-TREE-tohdisˈtɾito

nounA2general
Use 'distrito' when referring to a general administrative or geographical division of a large city, similar to a district or ward.
A stylized aerial view illustration showing a green landscape clearly divided by a dashed line. On one side are a few red houses, representing one administrative area, and on the other side are a few blue houses, representing a separate area.

Examples

El distrito financiero está lleno de rascacielos.

The financial district is full of skyscrapers.

El ayuntamiento dividió la ciudad en varios distritos.

The city council divided the city into several districts.

Vamos a visitar el distrito histórico mañana.

We are going to visit the historical district tomorrow.

Ella fue elegida para representar al distrito electoral número cinco.

She was elected to represent the fifth electoral district.

Masculine Noun Rule

Since 'distrito' ends in 'o,' it is a masculine noun. Always use 'el' (the) or 'un' (a) before it, and make sure any descriptive words (adjectives) also end in 'o,' like 'el distrito nuevo' (the new district).

Confusing 'Distrito' and 'Barrio'

Mistake: “Using 'distrito' when you mean a small, informal neighborhood.”

Correction: 'Distrito' refers to a large, official administrative division. For a specific neighborhood where people live, use 'barrio': 'Vivo en este barrio' (I live in this neighborhood).

alcaldía

nounB2formal
Use 'alcaldía' when referring to the administrative seat or jurisdiction of a mayor, or an administrative district that functions like a municipality within a larger city.

Examples

La alcaldía de este municipio ofrece servicios a los residentes.

The mayor's office of this municipality offers services to residents.

Distrito vs. Alcaldía

Learners often confuse 'distrito' and 'alcaldía' because both can refer to city divisions. Remember that 'distrito' is a broader term for any major division, while 'alcaldía' specifically relates to the mayor's office or a mayor-led administrative area.

Related Translations

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