Inklingo

How to Say "scholar" in Spanish

English → Spanish

científico

nounB1academic expert
Use this word for a scholar who is an expert in a scientific field or a natural science.

Examples

El científico presentó su invento en la conferencia.

The scientist presented his invention at the conference.

investigador

in-ves-ti-ga-DOR/im.bes.ti.ɣaˈðoɾ/

nounB1humanities
Use this term for a scholar who is actively conducting research, particularly in the humanities or social sciences.
A focused scientist wearing a white lab coat is studying a beaker filled with bright blue liquid on a clean laboratory desk.

Examples

El investigador principal presentó los resultados del estudio.

The lead researcher presented the results of the study.

Necesitamos un investigador privado para seguir este caso de fraude.

We need a private investigator to follow this fraud case.

Ser investigador requiere mucha paciencia y atención al detalle.

Being a researcher requires a lot of patience and attention to detail.

Gender Flexibility

To talk about a female researcher, you change the ending to 'investigadora'. Many nouns ending in '-dor' follow this pattern.

Confusing Noun and Verb

Mistake: “Using 'investigar' (the verb) when you mean 'investigador' (the person).”

Correction: Remember, '-dor' is usually the person who *does* the action, like 'investigador' (the one who investigates).

intelectual

/een-teh-lek-too-AHL//intelekˈtual/

nounB2an academic person
This word refers to a scholar who is deeply engaged with ideas, culture, and critical thinking, often respected for their intellect.
A person sitting comfortably in a large armchair, deeply focused on reading a thick book.

Examples

Él es un intelectual muy respetado en su país.

He is a very respected intellectual in his country.

Muchos intelectuales firmaron la carta de protesta.

Many intellectuals signed the protest letter.

sabio

SAH-byoh/ˈsa.βjo/

nounB2a highly learned person
Use this word for a scholar who is exceptionally wise and possesses profound knowledge, often gained through experience or deep study.
A detailed illustration of a respected, elderly figure, dressed simply, standing on a hill overlooking a peaceful valley, symbolizing profound wisdom and guidance.

Examples

El sabio de la aldea resolvió el conflicto.

The sage of the village resolved the conflict.

Los antiguos sabios griegos escribieron sobre la moral.

The ancient Greek scholars wrote about morality.

Using the Feminine Form

When referring to a woman, you use the feminine form: 'la sabia' (the wise woman/sage).

Confusing 'científico' and 'investigador'

Learners often confuse 'científico' and 'investigador'. Remember that 'científico' specifically implies a science-related field, while 'investigador' is broader and often used for research in humanities or social sciences.

Related Translations

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