Welcome! In this guide, we will explore various ways to say “survey” in Spanish. Whether you need to use the term in a formal or informal context, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive right in:
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Survey
When communicating formally, you may encounter situations where you need to discuss the concept of a survey. Here are a few phrases you can use:
1. Encuesta
The most common and universally understood term for “survey” in Spanish is “encuesta.” This word can be used both as a noun and as a verb. For example:
Hemos realizado una encuesta de opinión pública.
(We have conducted a public opinion survey.)
2. Estudio de Opinión
Another formal way to refer to a survey is by using the phrase “estudio de opinión” which translates to “opinion study.” This phrase emphasizes the research aspect of the survey. For instance:
El gobierno ha encargado un estudio de opinión para conocer las preferencias del electorado.
(The government has commissioned an opinion study to understand the electorate’s preferences.)
Informal Ways to Say Survey
Now, let’s explore some more casual or colloquial expressions that can be used in informal contexts:
1. Sondeo
The word “sondeo” is commonly used in an informal setting to refer to a survey or poll. It implies a quick and informal investigation. Here’s an example:
Hemos realizado un sondeo sobre las tendencias de moda juvenil.
(We have conducted a survey about youth fashion trends.)
2. Cuestionario
Another term you can use informally is “cuestionario,” which translates to “questionnaire.” Although it primarily refers to the set of questions used in a survey, it can also be used to refer to the survey itself. Consider the following example:
Vamos a distribuir los cuestionarios para recopilar información para nuestra encuesta.
(We are going to distribute the questionnaires to gather information for our survey.)
Common Regional Variations
While the terms mentioned above are widely used across Spanish-speaking regions, there are some variations that are more specific to certain regions. Here are a few examples:
1. Muestreo
In some Latin American countries, such as Mexico, “muestreo” can be used to refer to a survey, especially when it focuses on specific segments of the population. This term is derived from “muestra,” meaning “sample.” Here’s an example:
Vamos a realizar un muestreo para conocer los hábitos de consumo en esta región.
(We are going to conduct a survey to understand consumption habits in this region.)
2. Investigación de Mercado
In Spain and some other Spanish-speaking countries, you may come across the term “investigación de mercado” when talking about market research surveys. It focuses on gathering data and insights about consumer preferences. Consider this example:
Vamos a realizar una investigación de mercado para evaluar la aceptación de nuestro nuevo producto.
(We are going to conduct a market research survey to assess the acceptance of our new product.)
Tips for Using Survey Terminology
Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind when using these terms:
1. Context Matters
Always consider the context in which you’re using the word “survey” to select the most appropriate translation. The specific purpose, audience, and region will influence your choice.
2. Use Verb Conjugations
Remember that the chosen terms can be used as nouns or verbs. Pay attention to their appropriate verb conjugations to ensure grammatical accuracy.
3. Be Clear with your Intention
If your aim is to conduct an official and comprehensive statistical survey, “encuesta” is generally the safest choice. For more informal or spontaneous situations, you can use “sondeo” or “cuestionario.”
Conclusion
¡Enhorabuena! (Congratulations!) Now you have a wide array of terms at your disposal to use the word “survey” in Spanish confidently. Remember to consider the formality of the situation, the target audience, and the specific purpose of your survey when choosing the most appropriate term. Expand your vocabulary and practice using these terms to better communicate your survey intentions in the Spanish language! ¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)
