Inklingo

How to Say "distance" in Spanish

English → Spanish

distancia

dees-TAHN-syah/disˈtan.sja/

nounA1general
Use 'distancia' for the general concept of physical space or the measurement between two points, whether literal or figurative.
A visual representation of physical distance showing two brightly colored, small houses separated by a wide, empty green space and a long path.

Examples

¿Cuál es la distancia entre tu casa y la escuela?

What is the distance between your house and the school?

Mantén una distancia segura del fuego.

Keep a safe distance from the fire.

Ellos se conocieron a larga distancia, por internet.

They met over a long distance, online.

Gender Reminder

Remember that 'distancia' is always a feminine noun, so use 'la' before it: 'la distancia'.

Using 'a' vs. 'de'

You often use 'a' (at/to) or 'de' (from) when specifying distance: 'a cinco metros de aquí' (five meters from here).

Confusing 'distancia' and 'trayecto'

Mistake: “Using 'trayecto' when referring to the measurement of space.”

Correction: 'Trayecto' means 'route' or 'journey.' Use 'distancia' for the measured space: 'La distancia es de 10 kilómetros.'

separación

nounB1general
Use 'separación' when referring to the gap or space that divides things, often implying a deliberate or required distance for a specific purpose.

Examples

La separación entre las mesas es obligatoria por seguridad.

The separation (distance) between the tables is mandatory for safety.

tiro

TEE-roh/ˈtiɾo/

nounB1sports, military
Use 'tiro' specifically when referring to the distance or range covered by a projectile, like a ball being thrown or shot.
A simplified illustration of a person's arm mid-motion, releasing a bright red ball that is flying through the air.

Examples

El delantero falló el tiro a la portería.

The striker missed the shot at the goal.

Estuvo a un tiro de piedra de la casa, muy cerca.

It was a stone's throw from the house, very close.

Measuring Distance

The phrase 'a un tiro de piedra' (a stone's throw) is a very common way to describe something that is very close by.

General Distance vs. Specific Range

Learners often use 'distancia' when they should use a more specific term. Remember that 'tiro' refers to the range of a throw or shot, not just any physical distance. 'Separación' is best for the space *between* objects.

Related Translations

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