Inklingo

How to Say "category" in Spanish

English → Spanish

categoría

NounB1General
Use 'categoría' when referring to a general classification, division, or grouping of items, ideas, or people.

Examples

Los productos se dividen en tres categorías: A, B y C.

The products are divided into three categories: A, B, and C.

grupo

GROO-pohˈɡɾupo

NounB1General
Use 'grupo' when the focus is on a specific set of people or things working together or forming a distinct unit, often within a larger organization.
A collection of colorful geometric shapes (squares, circles, and triangles) neatly separated into three distinct, organized clusters on a white background, representing classification or category.

Examples

La empresa se divide en varios grupos de trabajo.

The company is divided into several working groups.

Este es el grupo sanguíneo más raro.

This is the rarest blood group/type.

El profesor dividió la clase en dos grupos para el debate.

The teacher divided the class into two groups for the debate.

modalidad

mo-dah-lee-DAHDmo.ða.liˈðað

NounB2Specific (Competition)
Use 'modalidad' specifically when referring to a particular type or division within a competition, sport, or event.
A young gymnast performing a pose on a balance beam, representing a specific discipline.

Examples

Ella compite en la modalidad de natación sincronizada.

She competes in the synchronized swimming discipline.

El examen varía según la modalidad de bachillerato.

The exam varies according to the high school track.

En esta modalidad deportiva, la velocidad es clave.

In this sporting category, speed is key.

Use with 'de'

When identifying a specific type, we usually follow 'modalidad' with the word 'de' (modalidad de + noun).

Direct translation from 'discipline'

Mistake: “disciplina de natación”

Correction: modalidad de natación (while 'disciplina' works, 'modalidad' is often more natural for specific competition types).

Categoría vs. Grupo

Learners often confuse 'categoría' and 'grupo'. Remember that 'categoría' is for abstract classifications or divisions of things, while 'grupo' often implies a collection of people or a specific unit within a larger structure.

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