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How to Say "factors" in Spanish

English → Spanish

elementos

eh-leh-MEN-tohse.leˈmen.tos

nounA1general
Use 'elementos' when referring to the basic pieces, ingredients, or constituent parts that combine to form something or influence a situation.
A collection of primary colored basic geometric shapes, specifically a red cube, a blue sphere, and a yellow cylinder, floating near each other.

Examples

Necesitas tres elementos básicos para hacer esta receta.

You need three basic elements to make this recipe.

El profesor explicó los elementos clave de la teoría.

The professor explained the key elements of the theory.

Los elementos de la batería están desgastados.

The components of the battery are worn out.

Always Plural

Since 'elementos' ends in '-os', it is always used to talk about more than one thing. The singular form is 'elemento'.

Gender Confusion

Mistake: “La elementos son importantes.”

Correction: Los elementos son importantes. Remember 'elementos' is masculine, so use 'los' or 'unos'.

agentes

ah-HEN-tehsaˈxentes

nounC1general
Use 'agentes' when referring to active forces or entities that cause a specific effect or influence, often in a more dynamic or impactful way.
A strong gust of wind shown as flowing lines pushing a single brightly colored autumn leaf, illustrating a factor causing an effect.

Examples

Los agentes contaminantes afectan la calidad del aire.

The polluting agents affect the air quality.

Hay que esterilizar los instrumentos para eliminar agentes infecciosos.

We must sterilize the instruments to eliminate infectious agents.

Technical Usage

In this context, 'agentes' refers to non-human things or forces that cause a reaction or effect, like chemicals or environmental elements.

Elements vs. Agents

Learners often confuse 'elementos' and 'agentes' by using 'elementos' for active causes. Remember, 'agentes' implies an active force producing an effect, while 'elementos' are more like passive building blocks or components.

Related Translations

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