Inklingo

How to Say "insects" in Spanish

English → Spanish

insectos

/in-SEK-tos//inˈsektos/

nounA1formal
Use 'insectos' when you want to specifically refer to the biological class of insects, characterized by having six legs and three body parts, especially in formal or scientific contexts.
A colorful storybook illustration showing three different insects: a red ladybug, a green grasshopper, and a brown ant, all perched on a large green leaf.

Examples

Los entomólogos estudian la diversidad de insectos en la selva amazónica.

Entomologists study the diversity of insects in the Amazon rainforest.

Hay muchos insectos volando cerca de la luz.

There are many insects flying near the light.

Necesitas repelente si vas a un lugar con muchos insectos.

You need repellent if you go to a place with lots of bugs.

Los científicos estudian el comportamiento de los insectos sociales, como las hormigas.

Scientists study the behavior of social insects, like ants.

Masculine Plural

Since 'insectos' is the plural form of the masculine word 'insecto,' you must use the masculine plural word for 'the' (los) and any descriptive words (adjectives) must also agree, usually ending in -os (e.g., los pequeños insectos).

Gender Error

Mistake: “La insectos (Incorrect use of feminine 'la')”

Correction: Los insectos. Remember, the word is masculine even though the creatures themselves don't have a specific gender assigned in the word.

bichos

/BEE-chohs//ˈbitʃos/

nounA2informal
Use 'bichos' for a more general and informal term for small creatures, including insects, but also spiders, worms, or other small animals, often used in everyday conversation.
A collection of colorful insects like a ladybug, a beetle, and a butterfly on a green leaf.

Examples

Mi hijo tiene miedo de los bichos que salen por la noche.

My son is afraid of the bugs that come out at night.

Hay muchos bichos en el jardín durante el verano.

There are many bugs in the garden during the summer.

¡Cuidado! No pises esos bichos.

Watch out! Don't step on those critters.

Making it plural

To talk about more than one 'bicho', we just add an 's' at the end. It always stays masculine, even if the bugs are technically female.

Insecto vs. Bicho

Mistake: “Using 'insecto' in a casual conversation at a picnic.”

Correction: Use 'bicho' for a more natural, everyday feel. 'Insecto' sounds like you are in a science class.

Choosing between 'insectos' and 'bichos'

Learners often mistakenly use 'insectos' in casual conversation when 'bichos' would be more natural. Remember that 'bichos' is a broader term and more common in everyday speech, while 'insectos' is precise and often used in scientific or formal settings.

Related Translations

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