laboratorio de computación
/laboɾatoɾjo de komputaθjon/from spelling rules
The English phrase 'computer lab' is translated into Spanish as laboratorio de computación.
The term refers to a space used for accessing computers on-site, typically within an institution like a school or a library. While laboratorio de computación is a standard way to express this, you may also hear sala de computación, which translates more literally to 'computer room'.
Meaning: space for using on-site computers, usually as part of an institution such as a school or library (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase laboratorio de computación is composed of laboratorio (laboratory) and de computación (of computing).
Which one should you use?
While laboratorio de computación is a common term, sala de computación is frequently used as an alternative in many schools and universities to refer to a computer room.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Laboratorio de computación carries a more technical or academic tone compared to calling the space simply a room. Other formal alternatives include Laboratorio de Informática and Aula de Computadoras.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, you will often find the phrase Aula de ordenadores used to mean computer lab. In some Latin American countries, such as Mexico, the term Laboratorio de Cómputo is used.
How do you pronounce it?
/laboɾatoɾjo de komputaθjon/
Did you know?
- In Spain, you will likely see the word ordenadores instead of computadoras. This comes from the verb ordenar, meaning 'to put in order' or 'to arrange'.
- In many Latin American schools, a laboratorio de cómputo is often managed by a prefecto or encargado, a specific role dedicated to the discipline and maintenance of the tech space.
- The word laboratorio shares a common ancestor with the English word 'labor', reflecting the historical idea that scientific or technical work was a form of intensive manual or mental toil.
Examples in context
- El laboratorio de informática cuenta con computadoras modernas y acceso a internet.The computer lab has modern computers and internet access.
- El profesor llevó a los estudiantes al aula de computadoras para realizar una actividad práctica.The teacher took the students to the computer lab for a hands-on activity.
- Vamos a la sala de computadoras para jugar videojuegos.Let's go to the computer room to play video games.
- En el cuarto de computadoras encontrarás impresoras y escáneres.In the computer room, you will find printers and scanners.
- Tengo que ir al laboratorio de computación para terminar mi tarea.I have to go to the computer lab to finish my homework.
- El laboratorio de computación está abierto.The computer lab is open.
- Necesito ir al laboratorio de computación para estudiar.I need to go to the computer lab to study.
- ¿Dónde está el laboratorio de computación de la escuela?Where is the school's computer lab?
Example conversation
Two students are talking in the school hallway.
- MateoMaría, ¿dónde está el laboratorio de computación?María, where is the computer lab?
- MaríaEstá al lado de la biblioteca, Mateo.It is next to the library, Mateo.
- MateoMuchas gracias por la ayuda.Thank you very much for the help.
- MaríaDe nada, nos vemos allá.You're welcome, 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 computación, de, laboratorio, CC BY-SA 4.0.
