Inklingo

How to Say "topics" in Spanish

English → Spanish

temas

TEH-mahs/ˈte.mas/

nounA1general
Use 'temas' when referring to subjects of discussion, debate, or study, often in a more formal or structured setting like a meeting or class.
A collection of objects representing different subjects of discussion: a small globe, a simplified drawing of a heart, and a stack of colorful books, all resting on a wooden table.

Examples

Vamos a discutir los temas principales de la reunión.

We are going to discuss the main topics of the meeting.

Necesitamos discutir los temas más importantes de la agenda.

We need to discuss the most important topics on the agenda.

El libro aborda temas complejos como la migración y la identidad.

The book addresses complex themes like migration and identity.

Hay muchos temas que me interesan en esa conferencia.

There are many subjects that interest me at that conference.

Masculine Noun Ending in -a

Even though 'tema' ends in -a, it is a masculine word. Remember to use masculine articles and adjectives: 'los temas' and 'temas importantes', not 'las temas'.

Using the Feminine Article

Mistake: “La temas son difíciles.”

Correction: Los temas son difíciles. (Use 'los' because 'tema' is masculine.)

asuntos

/a-SOON-tos//aˈsuntos/

nounA1general
Use 'asuntos' for matters, affairs, or issues that need to be dealt with, especially in a personal or business context, often implying something that requires attention or resolution.
A storybook illustration showing two individuals sitting across a table, seriously discussing a stack of papers, symbolizing important matters.

Examples

Tengo que atender unos asuntos personales antes de irme.

I have to attend to some personal matters before I leave.

Necesito hablar contigo sobre unos asuntos importantes.

I need to talk to you about some important matters.

¿Cuáles son los asuntos en la agenda de hoy?

What are the issues on today's agenda?

Always Masculine Plural

Even though 'asuntos' ends in '-os', remember that the word itself is masculine, so any adjectives or determiners (like 'los' or 'esos') must also be masculine plural.

Temas vs. Asuntos

The most common mistake is using 'asuntos' when you mean 'temas' in a context of discussion or a list of subjects. Remember that 'temas' is for things you talk about or study, while 'asuntos' are matters you need to handle or resolve.

Related Translations

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