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How to Say "psychological" in Spanish

English → Spanish

psicológico

adjectiveB1general
Use 'psicológico' when referring to something directly related to the mind, emotions, or mental states, especially in a clinical or academic context.

Examples

El estrés es un problema psicológico común.

Stress is a common psychological problem.

mental

men-TAHLmenˈtal

adjectiveA2general
Choose 'mental' when the focus is on the mind as opposed to the body or physical aspects, often in everyday contexts.
A simple blue silhouette of a human head shown in profile. Inside the head, a bright yellow abstract shape glows brightly, representing mental activity or thought.

Examples

Necesito tomar un descanso mental después de estudiar tanto.

I need to take a mental break after studying so much.

La salud mental es tan importante como la salud física.

Mental health is as important as physical health.

El doctor evaluó su estado mental antes de darle el alta.

The doctor evaluated his mental state before discharging him.

Always Agrees in Number

Since 'mental' ends in 'l', it is one of those adjectives that stays the same whether the noun is masculine or feminine (e.g., 'el esfuerzo mental', 'la fatiga mental'). You only need to make it plural: 'mentales'.

psíquico

adjectiveB2general
Use 'psíquico' when discussing the broader concept of mental processes, consciousness, or the non-physical aspects of the mind, often with a more philosophical or abstract connotation.

Examples

El bienestar psíquico es tan importante como el físico.

Mental well-being is as important as physical well-being.

Choosing Between 'Psicológico' and 'Mental'

Learners often confuse 'psicológico' and 'mental'. Remember that 'psicológico' is the most direct translation for 'psychological' especially when discussing health or science, while 'mental' is broader, often contrasting with 'physical'.

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