Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| constructor | /konstɾuɡˈtoɾ/ | masculine |
| constructora | /konstɾuɡˈtoɾa/ | feminine |
| constructor civil | /konstɾuɡtoɾ θibil/ (Spain, from spelling rules) /konstɾuɡtoɾ sibil/ (Latin America, from spelling rules) |
masculine |
| constructora civil | /konstɾuɡtoɾa θibil/ (Spain, from spelling rules) /konstɾuɡtoɾa sibil/ (Latin America, from spelling rules) |
feminine |
The term constructor is used to describe a person or entity that builds or constructs things. The forms constructor and constructora are often used to refer to construction companies or large-scale developers rather than just an individual laborer. Additionally, the term albañil specifically refers to someone who works with bricks, cement or similar materials.
Is it said differently in some regions?
Regional variations for builder or construction worker include: – In Mexico, albañil is commonly used to refer to a builder or construction worker. – In Spain, constructor is commonly used to refer to a builder. – In Colombia, obrero de la construcción is commonly heard. – In Argentina and Uruguay, maestro mayor de obras is a formal option for a builder.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word constructor is a masculine noun, while its feminine form is constructora. If you are referring to a civil builder, you use the masculine constructor civil or the feminine constructora civil.
How do you pronounce it?
/konstɾuɡˈtoɾ/
Did you know?
- While constructor refers to the builder, the specific trade of a mason or bricklayer is albañil, which comes from the Arabic words al and bannā’, meaning 'the builder'.
- In some Latin American countries, a builder might be called a maestro, a term meaning 'master' that acknowledges their expertise and leadership on a job site.
- The term obra in construction phrases refers to both the 'work' being done and the physical 'site' where the builder operates.
Examples in context
- Necesito contratar un constructor para renovar mi casa.I need to hire a builder to renovate my house.
- Mi vecino es un albañil excelente, siempre me ayuda con pequeñas reparaciones.My neighbor is an excellent builder, he always helps me with small repairs.
- Conocí a un obrero de la construcción que trabaja en un proyecto importante en el centro de la ciudad.I met a construction worker who is working on a major project in the city center.
- El constructor terminó el muro.The builder finished the wall.
- Necesitamos contratar a un constructor.We need to hire a builder.
- Él es un constructor muy experimentado.He is a very experienced builder.
Example conversation
Javier and Lucía are discussing a home renovation project.
- Javier¿Ya hablaste con el constructor?Have you spoken with the builder yet?
- LucíaSí, el constructor vendrá mañana.Yes, the builder will come tomorrow.
- JavierEspero que sea un buen constructor.I hope he is a good builder.
- LucíaNo te preocupes, es muy profesional.Don't worry, he is very professional.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “builder” translations and entries constructor, constructora, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
