Inklingo

How to Say "vibration" in Spanish

English → Spanish

vibración

nounB1
Use 'vibración' for any physical shaking or rapid back-and-forth movement, like the feeling of a phone buzzing or a machine running.

Examples

La vibración del motor era muy fuerte.

The vibration of the engine was very strong.

resonancia

/reh-so-NAN-syah//resoˈnanθja/

nounB2
Use 'resonancia' when the movement is caused by sound waves or when describing a sympathetic vibration, like echoes in a large room or the way an object shakes in response to a specific frequency.
A tuning fork vibrating with small curved lines around it to show sound waves.

Examples

La resonancia de la música llenaba el teatro.

The resonance of the music filled the theater.

La resonancia en esta catedral es impresionante.

The resonance in this cathedral is impressive.

El violín tiene una caja de madera que ayuda a la resonancia.

The violin has a wooden body that helps with the resonance.

Buscamos un lugar con poca resonancia para grabar el video.

We are looking for a place with little echo to record the video.

Abstract vs. Concrete

When talking about sound, 'resonancia' refers to the quality of the sound rather than a specific sound itself.

Confusing Shaking with Sound-Caused Movement

Learners often use 'vibración' for all types of shaking. Remember that 'resonancia' is specifically for vibrations linked to sound or sympathetic movement, not just any general trembling.

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