How to Say "chapter" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “chapter” is “capítulo” — use 'capítulo' when referring to a division within a book or a distinct period or phase in life or a process..
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capítulo
nounA1general
Use 'capítulo' when referring to a division within a book or a distinct period or phase in life or a process.
Examples
Terminé el libro, pero el último capítulo fue muy triste.
I finished the book, but the last chapter was very sad.
capítulo
nounB1general
Use 'capítulo' when referring to a division within a book or a distinct period or phase in life or a process.
Examples
Este nuevo trabajo es un capítulo importante en mi vida.
This new job is an important chapter in my life.
tema
/TEH-mah//ˈte.ma/
nounB1academic/study
Use 'tema' when referring to a unit or topic within a study guide, course, or organized list of subjects.
Examples
Para el examen de mañana, hay que estudiar los tres primeros temas.
For tomorrow's exam, you have to study the first three units.
Hoy vamos a empezar un tema nuevo en la clase de historia.
Today we are going to start a new lesson in history class.
Chapter vs. Unit
The most common mistake is using 'capítulo' for units in a study guide when 'tema' is more appropriate. 'Capítulo' is primarily for books or life phases, while 'tema' refers to distinct subjects or topics within a curriculum or learning material.
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