How to Say "embryo" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “embryo” is “embrión” — use 'embrión' when referring to a biological embryo in its early stages of development, such as in humans, animals, or plants..
embrión
Examples
El científico observó el embrión bajo el microscopio.
The scientist observed the embryo under the microscope.
germen
/HER-men//ˈxeɾmen/
Examples
El germen de trigo es una gran fuente de vitaminas.
Wheat germ is a great source of vitamins.
Ese desinfectante mata cualquier germen en las manos.
That disinfectant kills any germ on your hands.
El biólogo analizó el germen de la planta bajo el microscopio.
The biologist analyzed the plant's embryo under the microscope.
Gender and Endings
Even though many nouns ending in 'n' are feminine (like 'canción'), 'germen' is masculine. Always use 'el' or 'un' with it.
The Plural Accent Change
When you make 'germen' plural, it becomes 'gérmenes'. You must add an accent mark on the first 'e' to keep the stress on the correct syllable.
Mistaking it only for 'bacteria'
Mistake: “Saying 'germen' when you specifically mean a dirty bacteria.”
Correction: Remember that 'germen' also refers to the healthy part of a grain or seed, like 'germen de trigo'.
Embryo vs. Germ
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