término
/ˈteɾmino/
In Spanish, 'term' is translated as término.
Término is a versatile noun that can refer to a period of time or a time limit. Depending on the context, it can also refer to a specific word or expression (a term).
Meaning: period of time, time limit (noun)
Which one should you use?
The meaning of término shifts based on the context: it can signify a duration of time or a piece of vocabulary.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form términos is used when referring to multiple words or several conditions, such as in the phrase términos y condiciones (terms and conditions).
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈteɾmino/
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid using the phrase en término de as a way to say 'in terms of'. This is a common error for English speakers. Instead, use the standard Spanish plural form en términos de.
Did you know?
- The word término shares a common ancestor with the English word 'through', as both stem from the Proto-Indo-European root *ter- meaning 'to pass through' or 'cross'.
- The Spanish word término can refer to a geographical boundary. Historically, términos municipales defined the official limits of a town or city.
- In Spanish, the phrase términos medios refers to a compromise or a middle ground. It describes a point where two opposing sides find a shared agreement.
Examples in context
- Yanni no pudo encontrar el término.Yanni couldn't find the term.This sentence shows how to use término when referring to finding a specific word.Tatoeba #10031346 by manufrutos, translation #10031252 by Amastan
- "Radiactividad" es un término químico.'Radioactivity' is a chemistry term.This sentence illustrates the use of término when identifying a specific word within a field like chemistry.Tatoeba #3353630 by marcelostockle, translation #492548 by blay_paul
- Por lo tanto, el término tiene dos usos distintos.Thus the term has two distinct usages.This sentence demonstrates how término can refer to different usages or meanings.Tatoeba #642339 by Leono, translation #642322 by Leono
- El término correcto es 'sustentabilidad'The correct term is 'sustainability'
- El término médico 'diagnóstico' es de vital importanciaThe medical term 'diagnosis' is of vital importance
- El vocablo 'rescindir' debe ser entendido en su sentido legalThe term 'rescind' must be understood in its legal sense
- ¿Me explicas ese término que utilizaste?Can you explain that term you used?
- 16 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Sofía and Alejandro are discussing a project deadline at work.
- SofíaAlejandro, ¿cuándo vence el término del contrato?Alejandro, when does the term of the contract expire?
- AlejandroEl término termina el próximo viernes.The term ends next Friday.
- SofíaNecesitamos terminar el informe antes de ese término.We need to finish the report before that term.
- AlejandroTienes razón, Sofía. Empecemos ahora mismo.You are right, Sofía. Let's start right now.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry término, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries término, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
