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How to Say "device" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “device” is “aparato” — use 'aparato' for general electronic items or gadgets that require power, often referring to household appliances or common electronic devices..

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aparato

/ah-pah-RAH-toh//a.paˈɾa.to/

nounA1general
Use 'aparato' for general electronic items or gadgets that require power, often referring to household appliances or common electronic devices.
A vibrant, handheld electronic gadget featuring a large circular button and a small screen, designed in a simple, storybook style.

Examples

Necesito cargar el aparato antes de salir.

I need to charge the device before leaving.

Compramos un aparato nuevo para hacer café.

We bought a new appliance to make coffee.

¿Sabes cómo funciona este pequeño aparato?

Do you know how this small gadget works?

Gender Rule

Even though many Spanish words ending in '-a' are feminine, words ending in '-o' like 'aparato' are almost always masculine (el aparato).

Using the feminine article

Mistake: “La aparato”

Correction: El aparato. Always use the masculine article 'el' or 'un' with this word.

dispositivo

dis-poh-see-TEE-voh/disposiˈtiβo/

nounB1general
Choose 'dispositivo' for modern electronic or mechanical apparatus, especially technological gadgets like mobile phones, computers, or specialized equipment.
A simplified, friendly-looking electronic device with a glowing screen, sitting on a colorful surface.

Examples

Este nuevo dispositivo móvil tiene una cámara increíble.

This new mobile device has an incredible camera.

Necesitas conectar el dispositivo a la red eléctrica para cargarlo.

You need to connect the device to the electrical grid to charge it.

El hospital utiliza un dispositivo especial para medir la presión arterial.

The hospital uses a special apparatus to measure blood pressure.

Masculine Noun Rule

Remember that 'dispositivo' is always used with masculine articles: 'el dispositivo' (the device) or 'un dispositivo' (a device).

Gender Confusion

Mistake: “La dispositivo”

Correction: El dispositivo. Even though it ends in '-o', sometimes learners confuse it with other feminine nouns that end similarly. Always use 'el'.

mecanismo

/meh-kah-NEES-moh//me.ka.ˈnis.mo/

nounB1general
Use 'mecanismo' when referring specifically to the internal workings or a physical piece of equipment that performs a particular function, like in a watch or a machine.
A collection of colorful interlocking gears and cogs working together.

Examples

El mecanismo del reloj es muy delicado.

The watch's mechanism is very delicate.

No entiendo cómo funciona este mecanismo de apertura.

I don't understand how this opening mechanism works.

Always Masculine

This word is always masculine, so you must always use 'el' or 'un' with it, even if you are talking about a feminine machine.

Machine vs. Mechanism

Mistake: “Using 'mecanismo' when you mean the whole machine.”

Correction: Use 'máquina' for the whole object (like a car) and 'mecanismo' for the internal parts that make it move.

artefacto

/ar-te-FAK-toh//aɾteˈfakto/

nounB1general
Consider 'artefacto' for a man-made item, often implying a tool or appliance with a specific purpose, which can be mechanical or electronic, sometimes with a slightly more formal or technical connotation.
A small, sleek handheld gadget with glowing blue lights and circular buttons.

Examples

Este artefacto ayuda a limpiar el agua de forma natural.

This device helps to clean water naturally.

No sé cómo funciona este extraño artefacto de cocina.

I don't know how this strange kitchen gadget works.

Always Masculine

This word is always masculine, even if the machine it describes is a feminine noun like 'máquina'.

Artifact vs. Artefacto

Mistake: “Using 'artefacto' only for old museum items.”

Correction: In Spanish, 'artefacto' is very commonly used for modern machines and gadgets, not just ancient history.

Choosing Between 'Aparato' and 'Dispositivo'

Learners often confuse 'aparato' and 'dispositivo'. While both can refer to electronic items, 'aparato' is more common for general household electronics and appliances, whereas 'dispositivo' is preferred for newer technology and more complex gadgets.

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