regulador de intensidad
/reɡuladoɾ de intensidad/from spelling rules
The English phrase "dimmer switch" is translated into Spanish as regulador de intensidad.
A dimmer switch is a control switch used to adjust the brightness of a light. In Spanish, you can use several terms depending on the context, such as the common alternative atenuador de luz or the English loanword dimmer in technical settings.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase regulador de intensidad is composed of regulador (regulator) and de intensidad (of intensity).
Which one should you use?
While regulador de intensidad is the standard term, you may encounter atenuador de luz (light attenuator) as a common alternative. In more technical or electrical contexts, many Spanish speakers simply use the English word dimmer.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In many Spanish-speaking countries, the English word dimmer is used colloquially within technical or electrical contexts.
Did you know?
- In some Latin American regions, a regulador can also refer to a surge protector or voltage regulator, meaning the context of 'light' is essential to avoid buying the wrong device.
- The word regulador shares an ancient root with the English word 'rule'. Both come from the Proto-Indo-European root *h₃reǵ-, which meant to move in a straight line or to direct.
- The word intensidad is used in Spanish to describe not just light, but also the strength of a color or the depth of a human emotion.
Examples in context
- ¿Dónde está el interruptor de intensidad regulable?Where is the dimmer switch?
- Necesitamos instalar un regulador de intensidad en la sala.We need to install a dimmer switch in the living room.
- El regulador de intensidad de la lámpara no funciona.The lamp's dimmer switch is not working.
- Busca el regulador de intensidad en la pared.Look for the dimmer switch on the wall.
Example conversation
Mateo is trying to fix a light in the dining room.
- MaríaMateo, ¿puedes bajar la luz?Mateo, can you lower the light?
- MateoNo puedo, el regulador de intensidad está roto.I can't, the dimmer switch is broken.
- MaríaQué mal, tendremos que comprar uno nuevo.That's too bad, we will have to buy a new one.
- MateoSí, yo lo compraré mañana.Yes, I will buy it tomorrow.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries de, intensidad, regulador, CC BY-SA 4.0.
