Buenos días! If you’re looking to learn how to say “X-ray” in Spanish, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you need to know the term for medical purposes or simply want to expand your vocabulary, this guide will provide you with the formal and informal ways to express this term. We’ll also cover any regional variations if necessary. So let’s dive into the world of X-rays in Spanish!
Table of Contents
X-Ray in Spanish – The Formal Ways
When it comes to communicating formally, either in medical or professional settings, it’s important to utilize the correct terminology. Here are some formal expressions for “X-ray” in Spanish:
1. Radiografía
One of the most widely used terms for “X-ray” in Spanish is radiografía. It’s important to note that this is a gendered noun, so you’ll use “la” before it. For example:
El médico solicitó la radiografía para evaluar el estado de su lesión.
Translation: The doctor requested the X-ray to evaluate the condition of your injury.
2. Radiología
Another way to refer to an “X-ray” in Spanish is through the field of radiology itself. This term is radiología. It can be used when discussing the process of obtaining X-rays or the medical specialty. For example:
La sala de radiología está en el tercer piso del hospital.
Translation: The radiology department is on the third floor of the hospital.
X-Ray in Spanish – The Informal Ways
If you’re in a casual setting or having a conversation with friends or family, you can also use more relaxed terms to refer to an “X-ray.” Here are a few informal ways to say it:
1. Rayos X
One of the most common informal expressions for “X-ray” in Spanish is rayos X. This term is widely recognized and used in everyday conversations. For example:
Ayer me tomaron unos rayos X para revisar mi brazo.
Translation: Yesterday I had some X-rays taken to check my arm.
2. Placa
In some regions, people may use the term placa to refer to an “X-ray.” This informal expression is more common in Latin American countries. For instance:
Necesito hacerme una placa de mi dentadura la próxima semana.
Translation: I need to get an X-ray of my teeth next week.
Regional Variations
While the terms mentioned above are widely understood and used throughout the Spanish-speaking world, it’s important to note that there might be some regional variations. Let’s explore a couple:
1. Teleradiografía
In Spain, instead of using “radiografía,” the term teleradiografía is more commonly used. This variation is especially prevalent when referring to dental X-rays. For example:
Hoy me hicieron una teleradiografía de mi mandíbula en la clínica dental.
Translation: Today I had a dental X-ray of my jaw done at the dental clinic.
2. Placa Radiográfica
In some Latin American countries, particularly Mexico, you may find the term placa radiográfica being used, which is a combination of the informal term and the formal term. It’s another way of referring to an “X-ray.” For instance:
Pasé por el hospital y dejé una muestra para la placa radiográfica de mi hermano.
Translation: I stopped by the hospital and dropped off a sample for my brother’s X-ray.
Conclusion
Congratulations! Now you’ve learned various ways to say “X-ray” in Spanish, both formally and informally. Remember, radiografía is the go-to term in formal settings, while rayos X or placa are great choices for informal conversations. Keep in mind the regional variations and adapt your vocabulary as necessary. Practice using these terms in context, and soon enough, you’ll be able to communicate about X-rays with Spanish speakers confidently. ¡Buena suerte!
