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How to Say "printing press" in Spanish

English → Spanish

imprenta

im-PREN-tahimˈpɾenta

nounB1general
Use 'imprenta' when referring to the historical invention or the institution of printing itself.
A classic mechanical printing press made of wood and metal, with a large lever and a flatbed for paper.

Examples

La invención de la imprenta cambió el mundo para siempre.

The invention of the printing press changed the world forever.

Tengo que ir a la imprenta para pedir mis tarjetas de visita.

I have to go to the print shop to order my business cards.

Este libro tiene una imprenta muy clara y elegante.

This book has very clear and elegant printing.

Gender and Articles

Since it ends in 'a', it uses 'la' (la imprenta). To say 'to the print shop', remember to use 'a la imprenta'.

Imprenta vs. Impresora

Use 'imprenta' for the big machines or the business. Use 'impresora' for the small machine sitting on your desk at home.

The 'Prensa' Confusion

Mistake: “Using 'la prensa' to mean the print shop building.”

Correction: Use 'la imprenta' for the place where printing is done. 'La prensa' usually refers to 'the press' in terms of news and journalists.

prensa

pren-saˈpɾensa

nounA2general
Use 'prensa' when referring to a machine that presses or squeezes things, which can include a printing press, but also a vise or a juice press.
A sturdy, simple mechanical machine press with a large piston descending to squeeze a small object on a platform.

Examples

El mecánico puso la pieza en la prensa para sujetarla.

The mechanic put the piece in the vise to hold it.

Usan una gran prensa para hacer aceite de oliva.

They use a large press to make olive oil.

Imprenta vs. Prensa

Learners often confuse 'imprenta' and 'prensa'. Remember that 'imprenta' specifically refers to the printing press as a historical invention or concept. 'Prensa' is a broader term for any pressing machine, and only sometimes refers to a printing press.

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