How to Say "metro" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “metro” is “metro” — use 'metro' when referring to the public transportation system as a whole, like the subway network in a city.
English → Spanish
metro
MEH-trohˈme.tɾo
nounA2public transportation system
Use 'metro' when referring to the public transportation system as a whole, like the subway network in a city.
Examples
¿Dónde está la parada de metro más cercana?
Where is the nearest subway stop?
Es más rápido ir en metro que en autobús.
It's faster to go by subway than by bus.
Toma la línea azul del metro hasta la estación central.
Take the blue subway line to the central station.
Using Transportation
To say how you travel, use the preposition 'en' (in/by) before the transportation method: 'Voy en metro' (I go by subway).
Preposition Choice
Mistake: “Voy por metro.”
Correction: Voy en metro.
subterráneo
nounB1city train network
Use 'subterráneo' when specifically referring to the train that runs underground as a mode of transport.
Examples
Voy al trabajo en el subterráneo todos los días.
I go to work on the subway every day.
System vs. Vehicle
Learners often confuse 'metro' and 'subterráneo' by using them interchangeably. Remember, 'metro' usually refers to the entire system (like 'the subway'), while 'subterráneo' is more about the specific train you ride on.
Related Translations
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