Inklingo

How to Say "industry" in Spanish

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industria

/in-DUS-tria//inˈdustɾja/

nounA2general
Use 'industria' when referring to a large economic sector, manufacturing, or the collective noun for businesses in a particular field.
A large, simple factory building with multiple smoke stacks releasing white steam, set against a bright blue sky.

Examples

La industria automotriz genera millones de empleos.

The automotive industry generates millions of jobs.

Necesitamos invertir más en industria pesada.

We need to invest more in heavy industry (manufacturing).

La industria del cine en México está creciendo mucho.

The film industry in Mexico is growing rapidly.

Gender and Articles

Since 'industria' ends in '-a', it is a feminine noun. You must always use the feminine article 'la' (the) or 'una' (a/an) before it.

Confusing 'Industria' and 'Fábrica'

Mistake: “Using 'industria' when you mean a specific building.”

Correction: 'Industria' refers to the whole economic category, while 'fábrica' means a specific factory building. (e.g., 'Trabajo en una fábrica' / I work in a factory.)

sector

sek-TOR/sekˈtoɾ/

nounB1general
Use 'sector' when referring to a specific area of business activity or a particular type of industry, often with a focus on its economic or functional role.
A storybook illustration showing three distinct areas of economic activity: a farm field with a red barn, a small factory with smoke stacks, and a modern blue office tower, separated by clear paths.

Examples

El sector turístico se recuperó rápidamente después de la pandemia.

The tourism sector recovered quickly after the pandemic.

Necesitamos más inversión en el sector de energías renovables.

We need more investment in the renewable energy sector.

Ella trabaja en el sector público, para el gobierno.

She works in the public sector, for the government.

Gender Check

Remember that 'sector' is always masculine, so you must use 'el' or 'un' with it: 'el sector,' 'un sector importante.'

Confusing 'Sector' and 'Sección'

Mistake: “Usar 'sección' cuando se refiere a la economía (e.g., 'la sección industrial').”

Correction: 'Sector' is used for large divisions of the economy or society (e.g., 'el sector industrial'). 'Sección' means a small part or chapter (e.g., 'la sección de noticias').

Industria vs. Sector

Learners often confuse 'industria' and 'sector' because both can refer to parts of the economy. Remember, 'industria' is broader, encompassing manufacturing and entire economic branches, while 'sector' is more specific, often denoting a particular field of business or service.

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