Inklingo

How to Say "invasive" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “invasive” is “intruso” — use 'intruso' to describe thoughts or elements that enter a space or mind unwelcome, or for plants and animals that spread aggressively and disrupt an ecosystem..

English → Spanish

intruso

/een-TROO-so//inˈtɾuso/

adjectiveB2general
Use 'intruso' to describe thoughts or elements that enter a space or mind unwelcome, or for plants and animals that spread aggressively and disrupt an ecosystem.
A single bright red weed growing in the middle of a perfectly manicured green lawn.

Examples

Las malas hierbas intrusas están ahogando las plantas nativas.

The invasive weeds are choking the native plants.

Tuve un pensamiento intruso muy extraño esta mañana.

I had a very strange intrusive thought this morning.

Esa planta es una especie intrusa que está matando a las flores locales.

That plant is an invasive species that is killing the local flowers.

Describing Objects

Like most describing words in Spanish, this must match the object it describes. A 'pensamiento' (thought) is 'intruso', but a 'planta' (plant) is 'intrusa'.

invasor

/een-bah-SOHR//in.baˈsoɾ/

adjectiveB2general
Use 'invasor' specifically for a military force or species that enters a territory with hostile intent or to conquer.
A line of many soldiers marching across a green field toward a village.

Examples

El territorio fue atacado por fuerzas invasoras.

The territory was attacked by invading forces.

El ejército invasor cruzó la frontera al amanecer.

The invading army crossed the border at dawn.

Esta es una especie invasora que daña el ecosistema.

This is an invasive species that damages the ecosystem.

Las tropas invasoras se quedaron en la capital.

The invading troops stayed in the capital.

Matching the Noun

This word must match the gender of what it describes. If you talk about an army (ejército - masculine), use 'invasor'. If you talk about a species (especie - feminine), use 'invasora'.

Intruso vs. Invasor

Learners often confuse 'intruso' and 'invasor' when talking about non-native species. Remember that 'intruso' is broader and can apply to thoughts or aggressive plant/animal spread, while 'invasor' usually implies a more direct, hostile takeover, often military or a dominant species.

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