What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of capital (capital), del (of the) and estado (state).
Which one should you use?
While capital del estado is a standard way to express this, Capital estatal serves as a formal alternative. In certain locations, such as Costa Rica, you may also see the term ciudad capital used to refer to a capital city.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In countries like Costa Rica, the term ciudad capital is used to refer to the capital city.
How does it change in a sentence?
To express the plural 'state capitals', use capitales de los estados.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Be careful with the gender of the word capital. English speakers often confuse the two meanings. When referring to a seat of government, use the feminine la capital. If you are referring to financial assets or money, you must use the masculine el capital.
Did you know?
- The word estado comes from the Latin status, which was once used as a unit of length to describe the approximate height of a grown man.
- In some Spanish-speaking contexts, the word capital is used as an adjective to mean 'most important' or 'fatal', such as in crimen capital.
- The word estado can also refer to a person's 'status' or 'condition', showing how the concept of a political 'state' is built on the idea of a fixed 'standing'.
Examples in context
- Austin es la capital del estado de Texas.Austin is the state capital of Texas.
- ¿Cuál es la capital del estado de California?What is the state capital of California?
- Tengo que viajar a la capital del estado.I have to travel to the state capital.
Example conversation
María and Javier are discussing their travel plans.
- MaríaNecesito ir a la capital del estado.I need to go to the state capital.
- Javier¿Vas a visitar alguna oficina?Are you going to visit an office?
- MaríaSí, tengo un trámite pendiente allí.Yes, I have some paperwork pending there.
- JavierPuedo acompañarte si quieres, María.I can go with you if you want, María.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries capital, del, estado, CC BY-SA 4.0.
