Inklingo

How to Say "spare" in Spanish

English → Spanish

extra

ESS-trah/ˈeks.tɾa/

adjectiveA2general
Use 'extra' when referring to something that is additional or more than what is strictly necessary, often implying abundance.
A stack of three regular pancakes with a fourth, slightly larger pancake placed clearly on top, depicting an additional item.

Examples

Necesitamos comprar comida extra para la fiesta.

We need to buy extra food for the party.

Trabajé dos horas extra hoy.

I worked two extra hours today.

Tengo una batería extra en mi mochila.

I have a spare battery in my backpack.

Adjective Placement

Unlike many adjectives, 'extra' almost always goes after the noun it describes: 'tiempo extra' (extra time), not 'extra tiempo'.

Changing the Form

Mistake: “Compramos comidas extras.”

Correction: Compramos comida extra. 'Extra' usually stays the same regardless of whether the noun is singular or plural, masculine or feminine.

libres

/lí-bres//ˈli.βɾes/

adjectiveA2general
Use 'libres' when asking if something is available, unoccupied, or not currently in use, commonly for spaces like rooms or seats.
Two brightly colored, empty chairs pulled up to a small, unoccupied table on a sunny patio, illustrating availability.

Examples

¿Tienen habitaciones libres en este hotel?

Do you have any available rooms in this hotel?

Normalmente, mis fines de semana son libres.

Normally, my weekends are free (I don't have work).

Los asientos del fondo siempre están libres.

The back seats are always spare/empty.

Using 'Estar'

When talking about availability (whether a table, room, or person is currently not busy), you almost always use the verb 'estar' (están libres).

reemplazo

/reh-em-PLAH-soh//re.emˈpla.so/

nounA2general
Use 'reemplazo' when referring to a physical item kept specifically to substitute for another identical item when it breaks or is lost.
A brand new shiny light bulb sitting next to a burnt-out, dark light bulb.

Examples

Necesitamos un reemplazo para la bombilla de la cocina.

We need a replacement for the kitchen light bulb.

Ella es el reemplazo temporal de nuestro profesor.

She is our teacher's temporary substitute.

El reemplazo de la pieza vieja mejoró el rendimiento del coche.

The replacement of the old part improved the car's performance.

Noun Gender

Even when referring to a woman who is a substitute, the word remains masculine: 'el reemplazo'.

Using 'de'

To say what is being replaced, always follow the word with 'de' (e.g., 'el reemplazo de la batería').

Wrong Gender

Mistake: “La reemplazo”

Correction: El reemplazo. Even though it ends in 'o' and might refer to a woman, it's always a masculine noun.

Choosing between 'extra' and 'reemplazo'

Learners often confuse 'extra' and 'reemplazo'. Remember that 'extra' implies something additional or surplus, while 'reemplazo' is specifically a backup part or item intended to replace a broken one.

Related Translations

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