Inklingo

How to Say "toxin" in Spanish

English → Spanish

toxina

toh-KSEE-nahtokˈsina

nounB1general
Use 'toxina' when referring to a poisonous substance specifically produced by a living organism, like bacteria or plants.
A bright red mushroom with white spots in a forest, illustrating a natural source of poison.

Examples

El cuerpo elimina las toxinas de forma natural.

The body eliminates toxins naturally.

Beber mucha agua ayuda a limpiar las toxinas.

Drinking a lot of water helps to clear out toxins.

Algunas bacterias producen una toxina muy fuerte.

Some bacteria produce a very strong toxin.

Always Feminine

The word 'toxina' is always feminine, even if the toxin itself comes from something masculine. You should always use 'la' or 'una' with it.

Noun vs. Adjective

Remember that 'toxina' is the 'thing' (a noun). If you want to describe something as being harmful, use the adjective 'tóxico' or 'tóxica'.

Confusing 'Toxin' with 'Toxic'

Mistake: “Esta comida tiene mucho tóxico.”

Correction: Esta comida tiene muchas toxinas.

veneno

veh-NEH-nohbeˈne.no

nounA2general
Use 'veneno' for a general poisonous biological substance, often implying a more immediate or potent danger that might require an antidote.
A small, clear glass vial filled with glowing, vibrant emerald green liquid, suggesting poison.

Examples

Necesitas un antídoto rápido, ¡esto es veneno!

You need a quick antidote, this is poison!

La serpiente cascabel tiene un veneno muy potente.

The rattlesnake has very powerful venom.

Hay que guardar los productos de limpieza lejos de los niños, son veneno.

We must keep the cleaning products away from children, they are poison.

Gender Check

Remember that 'veneno' is a masculine noun, so always use 'el' or 'un' before it: 'El veneno es peligroso'.

tóxico

nounC1general
Use 'tóxico' when referring to any poisonous substance, especially in a more scientific or technical context, focusing on its harmful properties rather than its origin.

Examples

El cuerpo trata de eliminar los tóxicos a través del hígado.

The body tries to eliminate toxins through the liver.

Toxina vs. Veneno

Learners often confuse 'toxina' and 'veneno'. Remember that 'toxina' specifically refers to toxins produced by living things, while 'veneno' is a broader term for any poison, often used for something more immediately dangerous or requiring an antidote.

Related Translations

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.