moto
/ˈmoto/
moto is the Spanish word for motorcycle.
moto is a shortened, common way to refer to a motorcycle.
Which one should you use?
The term motocicleta is the full, standard version of the word, whereas moto is a shortened form. You may also encounter the diminutive motito, which is used in an affectionate or playful manner to mean little bike.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
moto is used in common, everyday speech. For more formal contexts, use the full term motocicleta.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In certain Latin American countries like Mexico and Colombia, the term motocarro is used to specifically describe a three-wheeled motorcycle used for transport.
How does it change in a sentence?
moto is a feminine noun, so you would say la moto to mean the motorcycle. The plural form is motos.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈmoto/
Did you know?
- In some historical contexts or regional dialects, the term moto has been linked to the word mojón, which refers to a boundary stone or landmark.
- The word moto is used in the phrase moto-taxi to describe a common mode of public transport in Peru and Colombia, where the vehicle is often modified with a sidecar.
- In some Spanish-speaking regions, the word moto is used colloquially to describe any motorized two-wheeled vehicle, including motorized scooters and mopeds, regardless of engine size.
Examples in context
- Compré una motocicleta nueva anoche.I bought a new motorcycle last night.
- ¿Viste la moto nueva de Carlos?Did you see Carlos' new motorcycle?
- Me gusta montar en moto.I like to ride motorcycles.
- Mi moto es muy rápida.My motorcycle is very fast.
- ¿Dónde dejaste la moto?Where did you leave the motorcycle?
- Él compró una moto nueva.He bought a new motorcycle.
Example conversation
Javier and Sofía are talking about transportation in the city.
- Javier¿Vas a la oficina en la moto?Are you going to the office on your motorcycle?
- SofíaNo, hoy prefiero ir en autobús.No, today I prefer to go by bus.
- JavierEs verdad, hay mucho tráfico hoy.It is true, there is a lot of traffic today.
- SofíaSí, tu moto sería más práctica.Yes, your motorcycle would be more practical.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry moto, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries moto, CC BY-SA 4.0.
