documento
/dokuˈmento/
The Spanish word documento means "document."
A documento refers to a piece of paper or a digital file that provides official information or records data.
Which one should you use?
While documento is the standard term, you may encounter other words depending on the context. Escrito is a formal synonym for documento often used in legal or bureaucratic contexts, while papeles is commonly used as an informal substitute for documento in plural form. In some Spanish-speaking regions, papelada is an informal term used to refer to a collection of documents.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of documento is documentos.
How do you pronounce it?
/dokuˈmento/
Did you know?
- The word documento shares an ancient root with the English verb 'teach'. This connection stems from the Latin 'docere', meaning 'to teach', implying that a document is something that instructs or informs.
- The phrase no tener papeles is a common euphemism used to describe the status of an undocumented immigrant.
- The word papelada does not just mean a collection of documentos, but often carries a negative connotation of excessive or frustrating bureaucracy.
Examples in context
- Necesitamos ese documento firmado.We need that document signed.
- Favor de presentar los escritos requeridos.Please submit the required documents.
- No olvides llevar tus papeles cuando vengas.Don't forget to bring your documents when you come.
- Me pidieron toda la papelada para realizar el trámite.They asked for all the documents to process the paperwork.
- Tengo que firmar este documento.I have to sign this document.
- He enviado el documento por correo electrónico.I have sent the document by email.
- ¿Dónde está el documento de identidad?Where is the identity document?
Example conversation
Mateo and Elena are at a government office.
- MateoHola, Elena. ¿Trajiste el documento?Hello, Elena. Did you bring the document?
- ElenaSí, Mateo. Lo tengo aquí en mi carpeta.Yes, Mateo. I have it here in my folder.
- MateoPerfecto, dame el documento, por favor.Perfect, give me the document, please.
- ElenaAquí tienes, espero que sea el correcto.Here you go, I hope it is the correct one.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry documento, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries documento, CC BY-SA 4.0.
