ciencias físicas
/θjenθjas fisikas/from spelling rules
The English phrase "physical science" is translated into Spanish as ciencias físicas.
ciencias físicas is a noun used to describe a branch of natural science.
Meaning: branch of natural science (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The term is composed of ciencias (sciences) and físicas (physical). The adjective must agree in gender and number with the noun.
Which one should you use?
ciencias físicas is a subcategory of ciencias naturales (natural sciences), which also includes biological sciences. While the plural las ciencias físicas is more common when referring to the academic disciplines as a whole, the singular form la ciencia física refers to the field of study as a single concept.
Did you know?
- The Spanish term ciencia is closely linked to conciencia, meaning 'consciousness' or 'conscience', as both derive from the concept of 'knowing'.
- In older Spanish literature, the term la física was used to describe the general study of nature, reflecting the original Greek meaning of 'physis'.
- In many Spanish-speaking countries, the term ciencias físicas is often grouped with matemáticas in a single department called Físico-Matemáticas.
Examples in context
- La física es una de las ciencias físicas más importantes.Physics is one of the most important physical sciences.
- Las ciencias físicas son muy interesantes.Physical sciences are very interesting.
- Ella estudia las ciencias físicas en la universidad.She studies physical sciences at the university.
- El laboratorio es para las ciencias físicas.The laboratory is for the physical sciences.
Example conversation
Daniel and María are discussing their school subjects.
- DanielMaría, ¿qué clase tienes ahora?María, what class do you have now?
- MaríaTengo una clase de ciencias físicas.I have a physical science class.
- Daniel¿Es difícil esa materia?Is that subject difficult?
- MaríaEs difícil, pero es muy interesante.It is difficult, but it is very interesting.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
