Inklingo

How to Say "credit card" in Spanish

English → Spanish

tarjeta

/tar-HEH-tah//taɾˈxeta/

nounA1
Use 'tarjeta' when referring to a payment card in general, or specifically a 'tarjeta de crédito' (credit card). This is the most standard and universally understood term.
A simple solid blue rectangular plastic card, similar to a bank or identification card, lying flat.

Examples

Necesito mi tarjeta de crédito para pagar el hotel.

I need my credit card to pay for the hotel.

¿Aceptan pagos con tarjeta de débito?

Do you accept debit card payments?

Necesitas mostrar tu tarjeta de embarque para subir al avión.

You need to show your boarding pass (card) to get on the plane.

Olvidé mi tarjeta de identificación en casa.

I forgot my ID card at home.

Always Feminine

Since 'tarjeta' ends in '-a' and refers to a thing, use feminine articles and adjectives: 'la tarjeta nueva' (the new card).

Using 'papel' for 'card'

Mistake: “Me dio un papel de cumpleaños.”

Correction: Me dio una tarjeta de cumpleaños. ('Papel' means general paper, 'tarjeta' means a specific formatted card.)

plástico

nounA1informal
Use 'plástico' as an informal slang term for a credit card, common in Spain, often used when talking about paying with one (e.g., 'pagar con plástico').

Examples

Prefiero pagar con plástico en vez de efectivo.

I prefer to pay with plastic instead of cash.

Using 'Plástico' Outside of Spain

The most common mistake is using 'plástico' outside of Spain, where it might not be understood as a substitute for 'credit card'. While common in Spain, it's best to stick with 'tarjeta' in most other Spanish-speaking countries to ensure clear communication.

Related Translations

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