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How to Say "vapor" in Spanish

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vapor

/bah-POR//baˈpoɾ/

nounA2general
Use 'vapor' when referring to the general gaseous state of a substance, like steam from a kettle or boiling water.
White, wispy steam rising from the spout of a dark kettle placed on a stove burner.

Examples

El vapor que sale de la tetera está muy caliente.

The steam coming out of the kettle is very hot.

El aire acondicionado crea un vapor frío en la habitación.

The air conditioner creates a cold vapor in the room.

La olla a presión suelta mucho vapor.

The pressure cooker releases a lot of steam.

Gender Check

Remember that 'vapor' is masculine, so always use 'el' (el vapor) and masculine adjectives (vapor caliente).

gas

/gas//ɡas/

nounA1general
Use 'gas' when referring to a more general concept of gases, such as the gases in the atmosphere or industrial gases.
A transparent glass beaker with light, wispy, blue-tinted vapor rising out of it, symbolizing the gaseous state of matter.

Examples

El aire que respiramos es una mezcla de gases.

The air we breathe is a mixture of gases.

El gas helio hace que los globos floten.

Helium gas makes balloons float.

Masculine Noun Rule

Even though 'gas' ends in 's', it is a masculine noun. Always use 'el' or 'un' with it: 'el gas'.

Choosing Between 'Vapor' and 'Gas'

Learners often confuse 'vapor' and 'gas'. Remember that 'vapor' specifically refers to the gaseous state of a substance that is normally liquid or solid at room temperature (like water vapor). 'Gas' is a broader term for any substance in its gaseous state.

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