What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of clase (class), de (of) and computación (computing/computing science).
Which one should you use?
You may use Curso de computación to refer to a computer class. For a more formal academic context, such as a syllabus, the phrase asignatura de computación (computing subject) might be used.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Clase de informática is a more formal way to say computer class. In contrast, Clase de compu is an informal, shortened version.
Is it said differently in some regions?
Regional variations exist: in Mexico, you may hear clase de cómputo and in Spain, clase de ordenadores is understood. Additionally, in Spain, clase de informática is more common than clase de computación.
How does it change in a sentence?
To refer to multiple computer classes, change the noun to its plural form: clases de computación.
Did you know?
- The word clase shares a root with the Latin classis, which originally referred to a division of the Roman naval fleet.
- The term informática used in Spain is a portmanteau of información and automática, literally meaning 'automatic information'.
- Because informática and computación are used in different regions, a student in Spain might find the term clase de computación sounds like it refers to mathematics rather than technology.
Examples in context
- Mañana tengo una clase de informática.Tomorrow I have a computer class.
- Voy a inscribirme en un curso de computación este semestre.I'm going to enroll in a computer class this semester.
- Voy a la clase de computadoras ahora, ¿te unes?I'm going to computer class now, want to join?
- Ayer tuvimos una clase de compu súper interesante.Yesterday, we had a really interesting computer class.
- Tengo una clase de computación a las diez.I have a computer class at ten.
- La clase de computación es muy divertida.The computer class is very fun.
- Necesito comprar un cuaderno para la clase de computación.I need to buy a notebook for the computer class.
Example conversation
Javier and María are talking about their school schedule.
- JavierMaría, ¿tienes clase de computación hoy?María, do you have computer class today?
- MaríaSí, Javier, la clase es a las diez.Yes, Javier, the class is at ten.
- JavierYo también voy a esa clase.I am going to that class too.
- María¡Perfecto! Nos vemos allá.Perfect! I'll see you there.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries clase, computación, de, CC BY-SA 4.0.
