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How to Say "instrumental" in Spanish

The Spanish word forinstrumentalis instrumentalB1 level. This is a very common word in everyday Spanish.

English → SpanishB1
adjectiveB1
music without vocals or being a key factor
A wooden acoustic guitar and a shiny golden trumpet resting side by side on a simple background.

Examples

Prefiero la música instrumental cuando estoy trabajando.

I prefer instrumental music when I am working.

Su apoyo fue instrumental para el éxito del equipo.

Her support was instrumental to the team's success.

La banda lanzó una versión instrumental de su nueva canción.

The band released an instrumental version of their new song.

One Form for All

Unlike many Spanish adjectives, this word doesn't change its ending for men or women. It is always 'instrumental' regardless of the gender of the noun it describes.

Placement

When talking about music, it usually comes after the noun (música instrumental). When used figuratively to mean 'essential,' it also usually follows the noun or the verb 'to be'.

The 'O' Trap

Mistake:La música instrumentala.

Correction: La música instrumental. Adjectives ending in 'l' do not add an 'a' for feminine nouns.

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