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How to Say "unconscious" in Spanish

English → Spanish

inconsciente

in-kon-syén-te/iŋkonˈsjente/

adjectiveB1general
Use this word when referring to a medical or physical state of being unaware, such as after an injury or when asleep.
A simplified illustration of a person lying flat on their back on the ground, completely still with eyes closed, representing a medical state of being unconscious.

Examples

El paciente estaba inconsciente y no respondía a estímulos.

The patient was unconscious and not responding to stimuli.

Después del accidente, el conductor quedó inconsciente por unos minutos.

After the accident, the driver remained unconscious for a few minutes.

Ella fue completamente inconsciente del peligro que corría.

She was completely unaware of the danger she was running.

Fue un error inconsciente; no quise ofender a nadie.

It was an unconscious (unintentional) mistake; I didn't mean to offend anyone.

Always Stays the Same

Unlike most adjectives, 'inconsciente' doesn't change based on gender (it's used for both masculine and feminine nouns). It only changes to plural: 'inconscientes'.

Ser vs. Estar

Use 'estar' (to be) to talk about the temporary state of being knocked out: 'El paciente está inconsciente.' Use 'ser' (to be) less often, usually for describing a person's general lack of awareness.

Accidentally Changing Gender

Mistake:La mujer inconscienta.

Correction: La mujer inconsciente. Remember, this adjective doesn't end in -o/-a, so it doesn't change its ending for gender.

automático

adjectiveB2general
Use this word to describe an action or reaction that happens without conscious thought or control, often due to habit or instinct.

Examples

Su reacción al peligro fue automática, se agachó al instante.

His reaction to danger was automatic; he ducked instantly.

Automatic vs. Unconscious State

Learners often confuse 'automático' and 'inconsciente'. Remember that 'inconsciente' describes a lack of awareness (like being asleep or in a coma), while 'automático' describes an action done without thinking, like a reflex.

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