Inklingo

How to Say "bus" in Spanish

English → Spanish

autobús

nounA1formal
Use 'autobús' for the standard, formal term for a public transportation bus, particularly in urban settings or when you want to be universally understood.

Examples

¿A qué hora pasa el próximo autobús?

What time does the next bus pass?

bus

/boos//bus/

nounA1informal
Use 'bus' as a direct and common anglicism, widely understood and used in many Spanish-speaking countries, especially in informal or everyday conversation.
A large, brightly colored yellow and red passenger bus depicted in a simple storybook illustration style.

Examples

Tengo que tomar el bus para ir al trabajo.

I have to take the bus to go to work.

¿Sabes dónde está la parada de bus más cercana?

Do you know where the nearest bus stop is?

El bus de las diez se retrasó por el tráfico.

The ten o'clock bus was delayed because of traffic.

Gender and Articles

Since 'bus' is a masculine noun, always use the masculine articles: 'el bus' (the bus) or 'un bus' (a bus).

Confusing 'bus' and 'autobús'

Mistake: “Using 'autobús' in very casual, quick speech when 'bus' or 'micro' might sound more natural.”

Correction: 'Bus' is a very common, snappy abbreviation for 'autobús' in many regions, especially Spain and Central America.

camión

nounA2informal
Use 'camión' when referring to a bus that serves as public passenger transport, especially common for longer routes or between towns in Mexico and some other Latin American countries.

Examples

Tengo que tomar el camión para ir al centro.

I have to take the bus to go downtown.

Choosing Between 'Autobús', 'Bus', and 'Camión'

The most common mistake is assuming 'camión' only refers to a truck; remember it's also used for buses in certain regions. While 'autobús' is always safe, using 'bus' is common but an anglicism, and 'camión' can be regionally specific for passenger transport.

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