distrito
/disˈtɾito/
The English word borough is translated into Spanish as distrito.
The term distrito is used to refer to a borough or its subdivisions. In some contexts, other terms like alcaldía may also be used to refer to a borough or its subdivisions.
Meaning: administrative district (noun)
Which one should you use?
The formal equivalent for "borough" is municipio.
How do you pronounce it?
/disˈtɾito/
Did you know?
- In Mexico City, the term alcaldía is used for boroughs, which literally translates to 'mayor's office' rather than a geographical area.
- The Spanish word distrito shares the same Latin root as the English word 'strict', stemming from the idea of being 'drawn apart' or 'distinguished' from a larger whole.
- Several Spanish-speaking countries use the phrase distrito federal to identify a capital city that exists as its own entity, separate from any state or province.
Examples in context
- El alcalde del municipio anunció nuevas medidas para el desarrollo urbano.The mayor of the borough announced new measures for urban development
- Este distrito es muy tranquilo.This district is very quiet.
- El distrito central está cerca de aquí.The central district is near here.
- Vivo en un distrito muy grande.I live in a very large district.
Example conversation
María and Mateo are discussing where to live.
- María¿Conoces un buen distrito para vivir?Do you know a good district to live in?
- MateoSí, este distrito es perfecto para ti.Yes, this district is perfect for you.
- María¿Es un distrito seguro?Is it a safe district?
- MateoSí, es muy seguro y bonito.Yes, it is very safe and beautiful.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry distrito, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries distrito, CC BY-SA 4.0.
