Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| logopeda | /loɡoˈpeda/ | feminine, masculine |
| fonoaudiólogo | /fonoaudjoloɡo/ (from spelling rules) | masculine |
| fonoaudióloga | /fonoaudjoloɡa/ (from spelling rules) | feminine |
The term refers to a clinician specializing in speech therapy.
Which one should you use?
While logopeda is a standard term, you may encounter other forms depending on the specific region or the level of literal translation desired. For example, fonoaudiólogo/fonoaudióloga is a common way to refer to this professional in many parts of Latin America, while foniatra is used in specific countries like Mexico, Argentina and Uruguay. You may also see the literal translation terapeuta del habla.
Is it said differently in some regions?
Logopeda is the standard term in Spain. In Colombia, Venezuela and Chile, the term fonoaudiólogo or fonoaudióloga is frequently used. In many other parts of Latin America, such as Argentina and Chile, fonoaudiólogo is also common. In countries like Mexico, Argentina and Uruguay, foniatra is a formal choice.
How does it change in a sentence?
Logopeda is a common gender noun, which means it can be preceded by both the masculine article el and the feminine article la without the spelling of the word changing. In contrast, fonoaudiólogo follows standard gender agreement rules where the final o changes to a to indicate a female clinician: fonoaudióloga.
How do you pronounce it?
/loɡoˈpeda/
Did you know?
- The term foniatra refers specifically to a medical doctor who specializes in voice and speech, whereas a logopeda is typically a therapist.
- While English uses the word 'speech' to describe both the act and the professional's field, Spanish speakers often shift to the root 'fono' (sound) or 'log' (word) to define the science of the job.
- Using logopeda in Latin America instead of fonoaudiólogo will immediately signal to listeners that you are a foreigner.
Examples in context
- Tom es un fonoaudiólogo.Tom is a speech therapist.This sentence is useful for identifying a male fonoaudiólogo.Tatoeba #9314769 by ecorralest101, translation #3820010 by CK
- Estimado Sr. García, Me dirijo a usted para solicitar una cita con un logopeda. ¿Podría proporcionarme información sobre los servicios que ofrece en su clínica?Dear Mr. Garcia, I am writing to you to request an appointment with a speech therapist. Could you provide me with information about the services you offer in your clinic?
- La logopeda ayuda a los niños con el habla.The speech therapist helps children with speech.
- Necesito ver a un logopeda pronto.I need to see a speech therapist soon.
Example conversation
Elena and Javier are discussing a doctor's appointment.
- Elena¿Vas a la cita con la logopeda?Are you going to the appointment with the speech therapist?
- JavierSí, Elena, tengo cita hoy.Yes, Elena, I have an appointment today.
- ElenaEspero que la logopeda sea muy buena.I hope the speech therapist is very good.
- JavierElla es una excelente profesional.She is an excellent professional.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “speech therapist” translations and entries logopeda, fonoaudiólogo, fonoaudióloga, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
