Are you looking to learn how to say “allergy” in Spanish? Whether you’re traveling to a Spanish-speaking country, have Spanish-speaking friends or colleagues, or simply want to expand your language skills, this guide will provide you with the formal and informal ways of saying “allergy” in Spanish. We’ll also explore any relevant regional variations, share useful tips, and provide numerous examples. Let’s dive in!
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Formal Ways to Say Allergy in Spanish
When it comes to formal contexts, such as professional settings or polite conversations, you can use the following terms to express “allergy” in Spanish:
- Alergia: This is the most common and straightforward translation of “allergy” in Spanish. It is universally understood and used across different Spanish-speaking countries.
- Hipersensibilidad: This term, which literally translates to “hypersensitivity,” is also widely acceptable and can be used interchangeably with “alergia” in formal settings.
Examples:
1. Tengo una alergia al polen. (I have an allergy to pollen.)
2. La hipersensibilidad alimentaria puede ser peligrosa. (Food hypersensitivity can be dangerous.)
Informal Ways to Say Allergy in Spanish
When you’re in casual or informal situations, such as chatting with friends or family, you may want to use more colloquial terms for “allergy.” Here are some popular informal expressions:
- Alérgia: This is the informal version of “alergia,” where the accent is dropped from the last “i” in the word. It is commonly used in day-to-day conversations among Spanish speakers.
- Aché: In some Latin American countries, like Mexico, you may come across “aché” as an alternative to “alergia” in informal contexts. However, be aware that this term is not widely recognized outside of those specific regions.
Examples:
1. No puedo comer mariscos, tengo alérgia. (I can’t eat seafood, I have an allergy.)
2. Me da mucha aché cuando estoy cerca de los gatos. (I get a lot of allergy symptoms when I’m near cats.)
Additional Tips and Regional Variations
While the formal and informal terms mentioned above will suffice in most situations, it’s worth noting a few regional variations that you may come across:
In Spain, especially in the southern region of Andalucía, you might hear the term “áspera” used informally to refer to an allergic reaction. However, remember that this expression is not commonly used outside of Spain and even within the country, it is more localized.
Now that you know the different ways to say “allergy” in Spanish and have seen plenty of examples, here are a few additional tips to help you communicate effectively:
- Be specific: If you want to mention a specific type of allergy, such as a food allergy or a pollen allergy, accompany the term with the specific word for the allergen. For example, “alergia al polen” (pollen allergy) or “alergia a los frutos secos” (nut allergy).
- Use complete sentences: When talking about allergies, it’s essential to use full sentences to express yourself clearly. This ensures that there is no ambiguity in your statement and that your listener understands your situation accurately.
- Practice pronunciation: Spend some time practicing the pronunciation of these terms. Pay attention to the accentuation and emphasis on specific syllables to sound more fluent and natural in your conversations.
Remember, mastering a new language takes time and practice. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, and keep learning and exploring new vocabulary. With the phrases and tips provided in this guide, you’re well on your way to expressing “allergy” in Spanish confidently!
