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How to Say "scale" in Spanish

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escala

/es-KAH-lah//esˈka.la/

nounA2general
Use 'escala' for the size or extent of something, like a map's ratio, a musical scale, or the size of an operation or event.
A massive green tree standing next to a tiny, identical miniature model of the tree, illustrating a size ratio.

Examples

La escala de la rebelión sorprendió a las autoridades.

The scale of the rebellion surprised the authorities.

La escala del mapa es de uno a diez mil.

The scale of the map is one to ten thousand.

Necesitamos medir la temperatura en la escala Celsius.

We need to measure the temperature on the Celsius scale.

El marinero subió por la escala del barco.

The sailor climbed up the ship's ladder/gangway.

Always Feminine

Remember that 'escala' is always a feminine noun, so you must use 'la escala' or 'una escala' before it.

Escala vs. Escalera

While both mean 'ladder' or 'stairs,' 'escalera' is the common word for a staircase or a portable ladder. 'Escala' often refers to a fixed ladder, like on a ship or in technical drawings.

dimensión

nounB2general
Use 'dimensión' when referring to the size, magnitude, or scope of something, particularly its impact or importance.

Examples

Nadie previó la dimensión del impacto económico que tendría.

No one foresaw the magnitude (scope) of the economic impact it would have.

graduación

nounC1technical
Use 'graduación' specifically for the markings or divisions that indicate measurement on a tool like a thermometer or ruler.

Examples

La graduación de la regla permite mediciones muy precisas.

The graduations on the ruler allow for very precise measurements.

Esacala vs. Dimensión

Learners often confuse 'escala' and 'dimensión' when talking about size. 'Escala' usually refers to a ratio or extent (like a map), while 'dimensión' emphasizes the magnitude or scope of an impact or problem.

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