puntual
/punˈtwal/
The English word "prompt" (referring to textual input for an LLM) is translated into Spanish as puntual.
While the term puntual is listed for this meaning, it is not the standard way to refer to textual input for a Large Language Model in Spanish. In technical settings, speakers more commonly use instrucción or indicación. Additionally, in many technical AI contexts, the English loanword prompt is frequently used directly by Spanish speakers.
Meaning: textual input given to a LLM (noun)
Which one should you use?
The word puntual can also function as an adjective meaning "on time." It is distinct from the verbs suscitar or concitar, which mean "to cause or lead to."
Related words
How do you pronounce it?
/punˈtwal/
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid using puntual to mean a textual input for an AI, as it is more natural to use instrucción, indicación or the anglicism prompt.
Did you know?
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, being too puntual for a social party might actually be considered a faux pas. Arriving exactly at the stated time can signal that you are too eager or lack social nuance.
- The root of puntual, which is punto, is incredibly versatile in Spanish. It can refer to a full stop in a sentence, a stitch in sewing, or even a single point in a tennis match.
- The Spanish word puntual descends from the Medieval Latin punctuālis, which comes from punctus, meaning 'a point'. This connects the concept of being on time to the idea of hitting a precise point.
Examples in context
- Por favor, sea puntual en su llegada a la reunión.Please be prompt in your arrival to the meeting.
- Entregue su informe a tiempo.Submit your report on time.
- ¡Contéstame al instante!Answer me right away!
- Termina tu tarea rápido.Finish your homework quickly.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry puntual, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries puntual, CC BY-SA 4.0.
