Inklingo

How to Say "environment" in Spanish

English → Spanish

medio ambiente

nounB1general
Use 'medio ambiente' when referring to the natural world, ecological systems, or the planet's physical surroundings.

Examples

Necesitamos proteger el medio ambiente de la contaminación.

We need to protect the environment from pollution.

entorno

/en-TOR-no//enˈtoɾno/

nounB1general
Use 'entorno' to describe the general conditions, circumstances, or surroundings of a person, place, or thing, often focusing on social or physical proximity.
A lush green forest with a clear blue stream and a small deer standing peacefully.

Examples

Un buen entorno familiar es crucial para el desarrollo infantil.

A good family environment is crucial for child development.

Es importante crecer en un entorno seguro.

It is important to grow up in a safe environment.

El entorno laboral es muy colaborativo en esta oficina.

The work environment is very collaborative in this office.

Debemos proteger nuestro entorno natural.

We must protect our natural surroundings.

Masculine Gender

This word is masculine. Even though it ends in 'o', remember to use 'el' or 'un' (e.g., el entorno, un entorno).

Entorno vs. Medio Ambiente

Mistake: “Using 'entorno' when talking specifically about ecology or 'nature' as a global concept.”

Correction: Use 'medio ambiente' for the planet/nature in general, and 'entorno' for the specific area or social circle surrounding you.

ambiente

ahm-BEE-ehn-teh/amˈbjente/

nounB1general
Use 'ambiente' to refer to the atmosphere or general mood of a place, such as a room, a party, or a workplace.
A lush, green forest scene with sunlight filtering through the canopy, representing a natural environment.

Examples

La música crea un ambiente relajado en el restaurante.

The music creates a relaxed atmosphere in the restaurant.

Necesitamos cuidar el medio ambiente para el futuro.

We need to take care of the environment for the future. (Note: 'medio ambiente' is the standard phrase for 'the environment' in Spanish.)

El ambiente de la selva es húmedo y cálido.

The jungle environment is humid and warm.

Este tipo de pez vive en un ambiente de agua salada.

This type of fish lives in a saltwater environment.

Ecological Use

When talking about the natural world or ecology, Spanish almost always uses the two-word phrase 'medio ambiente' (literally 'middle environment'), not just 'ambiente'.

clima

/KLEE-mah//ˈkli.ma/

nounB1general
Use 'clima' specifically for the social or workplace atmosphere, emphasizing the prevailing mood or feeling.
A storybook drawing showing two people smiling and talking, surrounded by soft, warm, glowing yellow light that illustrates a friendly and pleasant atmosphere.

Examples

El clima laboral en la nueva oficina es muy positivo.

The workplace atmosphere in the new office is very positive.

Hay un clima de tensión en la sala de reuniones.

There is an atmosphere of tension in the meeting room.

El nuevo gerente ha mejorado mucho el clima laboral.

The new manager has greatly improved the work environment (or 'workplace atmosphere').

El clima político del país está muy dividido.

The political mood (or 'climate') of the country is very divided.

Figurative Use

Here, 'clima' is used figuratively, meaning the 'feeling' or 'mood' of a situation, similar to how we might say 'political climate' in English.

Natural World vs. Atmosphere

The most common mistake is using 'ambiente' or 'entorno' when you mean the natural world. Always use 'medio ambiente' for ecological or planetary surroundings. 'Ambiente' and 'clima' refer to moods or atmospheres, while 'entorno' refers to general conditions or surroundings.

Related Translations

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.