Inklingo

How to Say "post office" in Spanish

English → Spanish

correo

/koh-RREH-oh//koˈreo/

nounA2
Use 'correo' when you specifically mean the physical building where postal services are provided.
A simple, friendly-looking building with a red roof, representing a post office, with a large blue mailbox outside.

Examples

Necesito ir al correo antes de que cierre.

I need to go to the post office before it closes.

El correo es responsable de la entrega de paquetes.

The postal service is responsible for package delivery.

Using the Article 'El'

When talking about the building or the service, always use the masculine article 'el' (the): 'El correo está lejos' (The post office is far).

oficina

/o-fee-SEE-nah//o.fiˈsi.na/

nounA1informal
Use 'oficina' as a short, informal way to refer to the 'oficina de correos' (post office), especially in casual conversation.
A brightly lit, organized office desk featuring a computer monitor, a colorful pen holder, and a small stack of papers, symbolizing a workspace.

Examples

Mi papá trabaja en una oficina.

My dad works in an office.

La oficina de correos abre a las nueve.

The post office opens at nine.

Tengo una reunión en la oficina central a las tres.

I have a meeting at the main office at three.

Always Feminine: 'La Oficina'

'Oficina' is a feminine word, which means it always uses 'la' (the) or 'una' (a/an). For example, you'd say 'la oficina es grande' (the office is big).

'Oficina' vs. 'Despacho'

Mistake: “Using 'oficina' when talking about a small, private office inside a home or building.”

Correction: Use 'oficina' for a general office space or company office. Use 'despacho' for a private office, a study at home, or a professional's office (like a lawyer or architect).

Using 'oficina' for the building

Learners often confuse 'oficina' with the building itself. While 'oficina' can be a shorthand for 'post office,' it's more commonly used for any type of office. To be clear you mean the postal building, use 'correo'.

Related Translations

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