What does it mean word for word?
The term asignaturas means "subjects" and is derived from the verb asignar, meaning "to assign". Literally, it refers to the subjects that are assigned to a student.
Which one should you use?
While asignaturas escolares is a standard term for specific courses in a curriculum, materias escolares is a common synonym used interchangeably in many Spanish-speaking countries.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some Latin American countries, Computing Science might be referred to as Informática instead of Computación. Additionally, in some Latin American countries, Physical Education could be referred to as Gimnasia, while in Spain, it is commonly called Educación Física.
How does it change in a sentence?
To refer to a single school subject, use the singular form asignatura escolar.
How do you pronounce it?
/asiɡnatuɾas eskolaɾes/
Did you know?
- When a student fails an asignatura and must retake the exam during the summer, the process is often called recuperar (to recover), treating the grade like a lost object.
- The term asignatura shares a root with the English word 'signature', as both come from the Latin 'signum', referring to the act of marking or designating something.
- In Spain, the primary school subject for 'Social Studies' is often split into Conocimiento del Medio (Knowledge of the Environment), which blends history, geography and science.
Examples in context
- Me gusta estudiar matemáticas porque son desafiantes.I enjoy studying mathematics because they are challenging.
- Tengo una prueba de ciencias mañana.I have a science test tomorrow.
- Ayer aprendimos sobre historia antigua.Yesterday we learned about ancient history.
- Yo estudio matemáticasI study mathematics
- Tú aprendes historiaYou learn history
- Él enseña inglésHe teaches English
- Esta tarde tengo que estudiar mate.This afternoon, I have to study math.
- ¿Vamos a la clase de geo?Are we going to geography class?
- ¿Cuáles son tus asignaturas escolares favoritas?What are your favorite school subjects?
- Las asignaturas escolares pueden ser muy difíciles.School subjects can be very difficult.
Example conversation
Elena and Javier are talking about their new class schedule.
- ElenaMira mis asignaturas escolares para este año.Look at my school subjects for this year.
- JavierTienes muchas asignaturas escolares difíciles, Elena.You have many difficult school subjects, Elena.
- ElenaSí, pero me gustan todas.Yes, but I like them all.
- JavierYo también prefiero las ciencias.I also prefer the sciences.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
