Are you curious about the Spanish translation of “off”? Whether you’re planning a trip to a Spanish-speaking country or simply want to expand your vocabulary, understanding how to say “off” can be beneficial. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the various ways to express “off” in Spanish and provide practical examples to enhance your fluency.
1. Apagado vs. Desconectado: Understanding the Nuances
The most common translation for “off” in Spanish is “apagado,” which means “turned off” or “switched off.” This term is typically used in reference to electrical devices, such as lights, TVs, and computers.
For example:
– La luz está apagada. (The light is off.)
– ¿Puedes apagar el televisor? (Can you turn off the TV?)
When referring to a device that is not physically turned off but rather disconnected from a power source, the term “desconectado” is more appropriate. It means “unplugged” or “disconnected.”
Example:
– El cable está desconectado. (The cable is unplugged.)
– Debes desconectar el ordenador antes de limpiarlo. (You should disconnect the computer before cleaning it.)
2. Alternative Ways to Say “Off”
While “apagado” and “desconectado” are the most direct translations for “off,” there are other phrases and expressions that can be used in certain contexts.
-
Fuera de: This phrase literally means “out of” and can be used to indicate that something is not present or active.
Example: -
La tienda está fuera de servicio. (The store is closed.)
-
Terminado: This term means “finished” or “completed” and can be used to indicate that something is no longer in progress.
Example: -
El partido está terminado. (The game is over.)
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Cancelado: This word means “canceled” and can be used to indicate that an event or activity has been called off.
Example: - El vuelo ha sido cancelado. (The flight has been canceled.)
3. Examples of “Off” in Practical Situations
To further illustrate the usage of “off” in Spanish, let’s explore some everyday scenarios:
- Turning off the lights: Apaga las luces.
- Unplugging a phone charger: Desconecta el cargador del teléfono.
- Closing a store: Cerramos a las 6 de la tarde. (We close at 6 PM.)
- Finishing a meal: Terminé mi comida. (I finished my meal.)
- Canceling an appointment: Cancelé mi cita. (I canceled my appointment.)
4. Useful Tables: Expanding Your Vocabulary Related to “Off”
Table 1: Common Phrases with “Off”
| English Phrase | Spanish Translation |
|---|---|
| Turn it off | Apágalo |
| Switch it off | Desconéctalo |
| Closed | Cerrado |
| Finished | Terminado |
| Canceled | Cancelado |
Table 2: Idioms with “Off”
| English Idiom | Spanish Translation |
|---|---|
| Off the hook | Fuera de peligro |
| Off the beaten path | Fuera de lo común |
| Off base | Fuera de lugar |
| Off-brand | De marca blanca |
Table 3: Cognates for “Off”
| English Word | Spanish Cognate |
|---|---|
| Office | Oficina |
| Official | Oficial |
| Offer | Oferta |
| Offense | Ofensa |
Table 4: Advanced Vocabulary Related to “Off”
| English Term | Spanish Translation |
|---|---|
| Offset | Compensación |
| Offshoot | Rama secundaria |
| Offload | Descargar |
| Offshore | En el extranjero |
Conclusion: Mastering the Nuances of “Off” in Spanish
Understanding how to say “off” in Spanish is essential for effective communication in Spanish-speaking environments. By mastering the different translations and nuances associated with this term, you can confidently navigate conversations and accurately express your intentions. Whether you’re traveling abroad, interacting with Spanish-speaking colleagues, or simply expanding your vocabulary, this comprehensive guide will empower you to use “off” in Spanish with ease and precision. Remember to practice regularly and immerse yourself in Spanish culture to enhance your fluency and build a strong foundation in the language.