informática
/infoɾˈmatika/
The Spanish phrase informática means informática (phrase).
informática is used to describe the entire field of IT (Information Technology) rather than just the hardware or the software alone. For example, you can use the term to refer to un profesional de la informática (an IT professional).
Which one should you use?
While informática refers to the field of computer science and information processing, computación is often used more specifically to refer to the mathematical/computational aspect or the act of computing.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Latin America, informática is extensively used in both formal and informal settings.
How do you pronounce it?
/infoɾˈmatika/
Did you know?
- The word informática is a portmanteau of the Spanish words información and automática, literally meaning 'automatic information'.
- The root inform- in informática comes from the Latin informare, which originally meant to give shape to something, not just to provide data.
- In Spanish, you can describe someone as un informático, but the term is so broad it can refer to anyone from a high-level software engineer to the person who fixes a printer.
Examples in context
- Me gusta estudiar ciencias de la computación.I enjoy studying computer science.
- En mi trabajo, utilizo tecnologías de la información para gestionar los datos.At my job, I use information technology to manage data.
- Aprendí mucho sobre computación jugando con mi ordenador.I learned a lot about computers by playing with my computer.
- Estudio informática en la universidad.I study computer science at the university.
- Ella trabaja en el departamento de informática.She works in the IT department.
- La informática es una carrera muy útil.Computer science is a very useful career.
Example conversation
Daniel and María are talking about their university studies.
- Daniel¿Qué estudias tú, María?What do you study, María?
- MaríaEstudio informática para trabajar en una empresa.I study computer science to work in a company.
- Daniel¡Qué bien! La informática es fascinante.That's great! Computer science is fascinating.
- MaríaSí, es un mundo muy interesante.Yes, it is a very interesting world.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry informática, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
