problema de fontanería
/pɾoblema de fontaneɾia/from spelling rules
The English phrase "plumbing problem" is translated into Spanish as problema de fontanería.
If you want to specify "a plumbing problem", you can say un problema de fontanería by adding the indefinite article un.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is constructed literally as problema (problem) + de (of) + fontanería (plumbing).
Is it said differently in some regions?
In many Latin American countries, the term plomería is used instead of fontanería to refer to plumbing, making the phrase problema de plomería common in those regions.
How do you pronounce it?
/pɾoblema de fontaneɾia/
Did you know?
- While fontanería is standard in Spain, the Latin American term plomería is derived from the Latin word plumbum, meaning 'lead'. This is the same root as the English word 'plumbing'.
- Because the word problema ends in a, English speakers often mistake it for a feminine noun, but it is actually masculine, which is why it uses un instead of una.
- In some Spanish-speaking regions, if the issue is specifically a leak, people might skip the word 'problem' entirely and simply say they have a gotera.
Examples in context
- Tengo un problema con el grifoI have a problem with the faucet
- Tengo un grifo que goteaI have a dripping faucet
- Tengo un problema de fontanería en la cocina.I have a plumbing problem in the kitchen.
- El fontanero dice que es un problema de fontanería grave.The plumber says it is a serious plumbing problem.
- No puedo arreglar este problema de fontanería yo solo.I cannot fix this plumbing problem by myself.
Example conversation
Daniel and Elena are discussing repairs in their apartment.
- DanielElena, hay un problema de fontanería en el baño.Elena, there is a plumbing problem in the bathroom.
- Elena¿Es un problema de fontanería muy urgente?Is it a very urgent plumbing problem?
- DanielSí, el agua no deja de salir.Yes, the water won't stop coming out.
- ElenaVoy a llamar al técnico ahora mismo.I will call the technician right now.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
