Inklingo

How to Say "check-up" in Spanish

English → Spanish

consulta

/kohn-SOOL-tah//konˈsulta/

nounA2medical
Use 'consulta' when referring to a scheduled appointment with a medical professional for a check-up or to discuss a health concern.
A storybook illustration of a friendly doctor wearing a white coat sitting across a small desk from a patient. The doctor is holding a simple clipboard.

Examples

Tengo una consulta con el cardiólogo a las diez.

I have an appointment with the cardiologist at ten o'clock.

La consulta duró solo quince minutos porque era un caso simple.

The consultation only lasted fifteen minutes because it was a simple case.

Gender Reminder

Remember that 'consulta' is a feminine noun, so you always use 'la' or 'una' before it.

Using 'Cita' vs. 'Consulta'

Mistake: “Using 'cita' when you specifically mean the medical/professional act of advice, e.g., 'Tengo una cita médica.'”

Correction: While 'cita' is fine, 'consulta' is more specific to the act of seeking advice from an expert: 'Tengo una consulta con el médico.' (I have a consultation with the doctor.)

revisión

nounB1general
Use 'revisión' for a routine check-up of something that requires maintenance, such as a car's service or a general medical examination that isn't a specific appointment.

Examples

¿Cuándo le toca la revisión al coche?

When is the car due for its inspection/service?

control

/kon-trol//konˈtɾol/

nounA2general
Use 'control' for a more general examination or inspection, often in contexts like security checks or monitoring a process.
A friendly security officer in uniform using a simple handheld scanner to inspect a traveler's brightly colored suitcase at a stylized airport checkpoint.

Examples

Tengo que pasar por el control de seguridad en el aeropuerto.

I have to go through the security check at the airport.

La policía montó un control en la carretera.

The police set up a checkpoint on the highway.

El médico me recomendó un control anual.

The doctor recommended an annual check-up.

Medical vs. General Check-ups

The most common mistake is using 'revisión' or 'control' for a doctor's appointment. Remember that 'consulta' specifically refers to a scheduled visit with a healthcare provider, while 'revisión' is better for mechanical items or general wellness checks.

Related Translations

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