Inklingo

How to Say "premises" in Spanish

English → Spanish

instalaciones

in-stah-lah-SYOH-nes/instalaˈsjones/

nounB1general
Use this plural form when referring to the buildings and land of a business, institution, or organization, often emphasizing their features or equipment.
A simple, colorful illustration depicting a small, functional facility, showing a main building structure connected to large, clearly visible pipes and storage tanks.

Examples

Las instalaciones del hospital son de primera clase.

The hospital facilities are first-class.

Necesitamos revisar las instalaciones eléctricas antes de abrir la tienda.

We need to check the electrical installations (system) before opening the store.

El club deportivo tiene muy buenas instalaciones para nadar.

The sports club has very good swimming facilities.

Always Plural

Even when you mean 'a facility' in English, Spanish usually uses the plural form 'instalaciones' to refer to the whole setup or complex.

Using the Singular

Mistake: “La instalación del hotel es grande.”

Correction: Las instalaciones del hotel son grandes. (Use the plural when referring to the physical space or amenities.)

instalación

nounB1general
Use this singular form when referring to a specific building or site owned by a business, especially when highlighting its amenities like sports facilities.

Examples

El hotel tiene excelentes instalaciones deportivas.

The hotel has excellent sports facilities.

local

lo-CAL/loˈkal/

nounA1commercial
Choose this word when referring specifically to a commercial space or shop that has been rented or is available for business.
A simple illustration of a brightly colored commercial shop building with a large window and a welcoming entrance.

Examples

Alquilamos un local muy grande para poner la panadería.

We rented a very large premises/space to set up the bakery.

El local donde se celebró la fiesta era precioso.

The venue where the party was held was beautiful.

Busco un local comercial en el centro de la ciudad.

I am looking for a commercial premises in the city center.

Always Masculine

When referring to a commercial space or venue, 'local' is always masculine: 'el local', 'los locales'.

Plural vs. Singular for Facilities

Learners often confuse 'instalaciones' (plural) and 'instalación' (singular). Remember that 'instalaciones' generally refers to the overall complex of buildings and land, while 'instalación' can point to a single site or specific setup.

Related Translations

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