Inklingo

How to Say "garrison" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “garrison” is “cuartel” — use 'cuartel' when referring to the barracks or military base where troops are stationed, focusing on the building or complex itself.

English → Spanish

cuartel

kwar-'telkwaɾˈtel

nounB1general
Use 'cuartel' when referring to the barracks or military base where troops are stationed, focusing on the building or complex itself.
A simple illustration of a long, utilitarian military barracks building with a red roof, situated on a green lawn.

Examples

Los soldados deben regresar al cuartel antes de las seis.

The soldiers must return to the barracks before six o'clock.

El cuartel general se estableció en el centro de la ciudad.

The general headquarters were established in the center of the city.

Pasó tres años de servicio en un cuartel cerca de la frontera.

He spent three years of service in a military base near the border.

Gender Reminder

Even though 'cuartel' ends in -l, it is a masculine noun, so use 'el cuartel' or 'un cuartel'.

Using 'cuarto'

Mistake: “Using 'cuarto' (room/quarter) when you mean the military facility.”

Correction: Use 'cuartel' for the large military building or base; 'cuarto' is just a single room.

guarnición

nounB2specific
Use 'guarnición' when referring specifically to the body of troops defending a fortress, castle, or walled town.

Examples

La guarnición defendió el castillo durante tres meses.

The garrison defended the castle for three months.

Cuartel vs. Guarnición

Learners often confuse 'cuartel' and 'guarnición' by using them interchangeably. Remember that 'cuartel' primarily refers to the physical place (barracks), while 'guarnición' refers to the troops themselves in a defensive role within a fortified area.

Related Translations

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