How to Say "pin" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “pin” is “código” — use 'código' when referring to a sequence of numbers or letters used to unlock or access something, such as a phone or a system..
English → Spanish
código
nounA1general
Use 'código' when referring to a sequence of numbers or letters used to unlock or access something, such as a phone or a system.
Examples
¿Cuál es el código para desbloquear tu teléfono?
What is the code to unlock your phone?
clave
KLAH-veh/ˈklaβe/
nounA2general
Use 'clave' specifically for a password or passphrase that grants access to an account or online service, often implying a secret word or phrase.
Examples
Olvidé la clave de mi correo electrónico.
I forgot my email password.
Por seguridad, cambia tu clave cada mes.
For security, change your code every month.
Always Feminine
Even though 'clave' refers to a code or password, it is always a feminine noun: 'la clave'.
Gender Confusion
Mistake: “El clave (using the masculine article)”
Correction: La clave (always use the feminine article 'la' or 'una').
Confusing 'código' and 'clave' for PINs
Learners often mix up 'código' and 'clave' when referring to PINs. While 'código' is broader for any access code, 'clave' is more specific to passwords or secret keys for accounts. Think of 'código' for unlocking devices and 'clave' for logging into services.
Learn Spanish with Inklingo
Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.