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A2 noun #800 am häufigsten 14 Min. Lesezeit

servicio

Top 800

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Erklärung servicio in your Level:

At the A1 beginner level, the word 'servicio' is primarily introduced in two very practical and immediate contexts that are essential for basic survival and navigation in a Spanish-speaking environment. The first and most crucial meaning for a beginner to learn is its use as a polite term for the restroom or toilet. When traveling, you will frequently need to ask where the bathroom is, and knowing the phrase '¿Dónde están los servicios?' is a fundamental skill. You will see this word on signs in restaurants, airports, and train stations, often accompanied by male and female stick figures. Recognizing 'servicios' on a door ensures you can find the facilities when needed. The second primary context at the A1 level is in the realm of basic hospitality, specifically in restaurants and cafes. Beginners learn to use 'servicio' to describe the work of the waiter or the overall experience of being served food. You might learn to say simple sentences like 'El servicio es bueno' (The service is good) or 'El servicio es malo' (The service is bad). At this stage, the focus is entirely on vocabulary acquisition for immediate needs: finding a toilet and evaluating a basic transaction. Grammar is kept simple, focusing on the masculine gender of the noun ('el servicio', 'los servicios') and pairing it with basic adjectives like 'bueno', 'malo', 'rápido' (fast), or 'lento' (slow). There is no need at this level to delve into abstract economic concepts or complex prepositional phrases. The goal is simply to recognize the word in public spaces and use it to express basic satisfaction or to locate essential amenities.

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As learners progress to the A2 level, their understanding and usage of 'servicio' expand significantly to cover more detailed scenarios in travel, daily routines, and basic problem-solving. At this stage, learners are expected to handle simple, routine exchanges of information, and 'servicio' plays a key role in these interactions. You will learn to use compound phrases that are essential for hotel stays and shopping. For example, 'servicio de habitaciones' (room service) becomes a useful phrase when staying in a hotel. You will also learn 'servicio al cliente' (customer service), which is vital if you need to return an item to a store or ask a question about a product. Another critical A2 concept is understanding the operational status of machines and facilities. You will learn the fixed expression 'fuera de servicio' (out of order). This is incredibly important for navigating public transport or using amenities; if you see 'fuera de servicio' on an elevator, an ATM, or a vending machine, you know you cannot use it. Furthermore, learners at this level begin to understand 'servicio' in the context of basic home utilities, such as 'servicio de internet' (internet service) or 'servicio de limpieza' (cleaning service). The grammar becomes slightly more complex, involving the use of the preposition 'de' to link 'servicio' with its specific type. You will practice sentences like 'Necesito llamar al servicio técnico' (I need to call technical support) or 'El ascensor está fuera de servicio'. The focus remains practical, but the vocabulary allows for greater independence and the ability to handle minor complications during travel or daily life.

At the B1 intermediate level, the scope of 'servicio' broadens from immediate personal needs to encompassing societal structures, public infrastructure, and more complex professional interactions. Learners at this stage can maintain conversations about everyday topics, and 'servicio' is frequently used when discussing how a city or society functions. You will encounter the term 'servicios públicos' (public services), which refers to essential government-provided utilities like water, electricity, public transport, and waste collection. Discussions might involve expressing opinions on the quality of these services, such as 'Los servicios públicos en esta ciudad son muy eficientes' (The public services in this city are very efficient). Additionally, the word appears in civic contexts, such as 'servicio militar' (military service) or 'servicio comunitario' (community service), allowing learners to discuss civic duties and life experiences. In the workplace or commercial environment, B1 learners use 'servicio' to describe what a company offers, distinguishing between 'bienes y servicios' (goods and services). You will learn verbs that naturally collocate with 'servicio', moving beyond simple adjectives to action verbs like 'ofrecer un servicio' (to offer a service) or 'prestar un servicio' (to provide a service). For example, 'Nuestra empresa ofrece un servicio de entrega rápido' (Our company offers a fast delivery service). The understanding of 'fuera de servicio' also expands to include people, such as a police officer being 'de servicio' (on duty). At B1, 'servicio' transforms from a simple noun for a toilet or a waiter's job into a versatile term used to describe the mechanisms of society and commerce.

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Reaching the B2 upper-intermediate level means achieving a degree of fluency and spontaneity that allows for regular interaction with native speakers. At this level, the usage of 'servicio' becomes highly nuanced, abstract, and integrated into complex professional, economic, and technological discussions. Learners are expected to understand and use 'servicio' in the context of the modern economy, frequently discussing 'el sector servicios' (the service sector) or 'el sector terciario', which dominates developed economies. You will be able to articulate complex ideas about the economy, such as 'El crecimiento económico del país depende en gran medida del sector servicios' (The country's economic growth depends heavily on the service sector). In the realm of technology, B2 learners comfortably use terms like 'servicios en la nube' (cloud services), 'servicios de streaming' (streaming services), and 'condiciones de servicio' (terms of service). The vocabulary becomes more sophisticated, and learners understand the subtle differences between 'servicio', 'atención', and 'asistencia'. You will use advanced collocations and idiomatic expressions. For instance, you might use 'estar al servicio de' to mean being dedicated to a cause or person, as in 'El político afirmó estar al servicio del pueblo' (The politician claimed to be at the service of the people). You will also encounter 'servicio' in religious contexts, such as 'servicio religioso' (religious service or mass). Grammatically, B2 learners master the precise use of prepositions and articles with 'servicio' in various contexts, ensuring their speech is not only accurate but also sounds natural and professionally appropriate in formal environments.

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At the C1 advanced level, learners possess a deep, almost native-like command of the language, allowing them to use 'servicio' in highly specialized, academic, legal, and literary contexts. The word is no longer just a practical tool but a concept to be analyzed and debated. In legal and corporate Spanish, C1 learners encounter 'servicio' in contracts and formal agreements, using terms like 'prestación de servicios' (provision of services) or 'contrato de servicios' (service contract). They can navigate complex bureaucratic language and understand the legal implications of 'servicios mínimos' (minimum services), a crucial term used during labor strikes to denote the essential functions that must be maintained by law. Furthermore, C1 learners appreciate the historical and sociological weight of the word. They understand that 'el servicio' historically referred to domestic servants or the staff of a large household, a usage found in classic literature and historical discussions, though recognized as potentially classist or outdated in modern casual speech. Idiomatic and figurative uses are fully mastered. For example, a C1 learner understands the expression 'hacer un flaco servicio' (to do a disservice), using it to critique actions that intend to help but actually cause harm: 'Con esa declaración, el ministro le hizo un flaco servicio a su partido' (With that statement, the minister did a disservice to his party). The ability to play with the word's meaning, adapting it to abstract philosophical discussions about duty, altruism, and societal structure, marks the C1 level. The learner's vocabulary is expansive, precise, and capable of expressing the most subtle shades of meaning associated with 'servicio'.

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At the C2 mastery level, the learner's understanding of 'servicio' is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. The focus is on absolute precision, stylistic elegance, and a profound comprehension of cultural, historical, and literary nuances. A C2 speaker effortlessly navigates the entire spectrum of the word's meanings, from the most colloquial slang to the most elevated academic discourse. They understand regional variations perfectly, knowing exactly when 'los servicios' sounds natural and when it might sound archaic or overly formal depending on the specific country or social setting. In literature and poetry, they can analyze how 'servicio' is used to explore themes of servitude, devotion, and chivalry, such as the 'servicio' a knight owes to his lord or lady in classic Spanish literature. They are adept at using the word in complex rhetorical structures and persuasive arguments. For instance, in a high-level debate about public policy, a C2 speaker might eloquently argue about the 'externalización de servicios' (outsourcing of services) and its impact on the 'estado de bienestar' (welfare state). They master the most obscure idioms and fixed phrases, using them with perfect timing and intonation. Furthermore, they can invent novel, context-appropriate metaphors using 'servicio', demonstrating a creative and flexible command of the language. At this pinnacle of language learning, 'servicio' is not just a word to be translated, but a cultural artifact that the speaker can wield with complete confidence, subtlety, and authority in any conceivable situation.

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servicio in 30 Sekunden

Means 'service' in business or restaurants.
Means 'restroom' (usually plural: los servicios).
Means 'out of order' (fuera de servicio).
Means 'on duty' (de servicio).

The Spanish word 'servicio' is an incredibly versatile and fundamental noun that permeates almost every aspect of daily life, culture, and communication in the Spanish-speaking world. At its most basic and literal level, 'servicio' translates to 'service' in English, encompassing the act of helping, serving, or providing assistance to others. However, its usage extends far beyond this simple translation, making it a critical vocabulary word for learners aiming to achieve fluency and cultural competence. When people use the word 'servicio', they might be referring to customer service in a retail environment, the quality of attention received at a restaurant, a public utility provided by the government, or even a religious ceremony. One of the most common and practical uses of 'servicio', particularly in Spain and several Latin American countries, is as a polite euphemism for the restroom or toilet, often used in the plural form 'los servicios'. This specific usage is essential for travelers and expatriates navigating public spaces, restaurants, and transportation hubs. Understanding the context is key to deciphering which meaning of 'servicio' is intended. For instance, if you are in a restaurant and the waiter asks about the 'servicio', they are inquiring about the quality of the waiting staff's performance. Conversely, if a customer urgently asks a waiter, '¿Dónde están los servicios?', they are undoubtedly looking for the restroom. The word also features prominently in professional and economic contexts, such as 'el sector servicios' (the service sector), which dominates modern economies, or 'servicio al cliente' (customer service), a vital department in any business. Furthermore, 'servicio' can refer to a state of operational readiness, as seen in the phrase 'fuera de servicio' (out of order or out of service), which is frequently encountered on broken elevators, vending machines, or public telephones.

El servicio en este restaurante es verdaderamente excepcional y muy rápido.

Hospitality Context: In hotels and restaurants, it refers to the quality of care and attention provided by the staff to the guests.

The concept of 'servicio' also extends to civic and national duties, such as 'servicio militar' (military service) or 'servicio comunitario' (community service), highlighting its connection to societal obligation and contribution. In the digital age, the term has seamlessly adapted to technology, giving rise to phrases like 'servicios de streaming' (streaming services) or 'términos de servicio' (terms of service). This adaptability demonstrates the word's enduring relevance and its capacity to evolve alongside societal changes.

Disculpe, ¿podría decirme dónde están los servicios por favor?

Public Utilities: Refers to essential services provided to the public, such as water, electricity, and waste management, often termed 'servicios públicos'.

Moreover, the word is deeply embedded in idiomatic expressions and polite formulas. For example, 'a su servicio' (at your service) is a courteous way to offer assistance or respond to a thank you, reflecting the warmth and politeness characteristic of Spanish-speaking cultures.

El ascensor está fuera de servicio hoy.

Operational Status: Indicates whether a machine, system, or facility is currently functioning and available for use by the public.

Llamé al servicio al cliente para resolver el problema.

Estoy a su entera disposición y a su servicio.

In summary, mastering the word 'servicio' requires an appreciation of its multifaceted nature, moving beyond a simple one-to-one translation to embrace its cultural, practical, and idiomatic dimensions. Whether you are navigating a foreign city, engaging in a business transaction, or simply trying to be polite, 'servicio' is an indispensable tool in your Spanish vocabulary arsenal.

Using the word 'servicio' correctly in Spanish sentences involves understanding its grammatical properties, common collocations, and the specific prepositions that frequently accompany it. As a masculine noun, 'servicio' is always preceded by masculine articles such as 'el', 'un', 'los', or 'unos', and any adjectives modifying it must agree in gender and number, resulting in phrases like 'el buen servicio' (the good service) or 'los servicios públicos' (the public services). One of the most critical aspects of using 'servicio' in sentences is mastering the prepositional phrases that define its operational state or purpose. For example, the phrase 'fuera de servicio' is universally used to indicate that something is out of order. You will frequently see this on signs: 'El cajero automático está fuera de servicio' (The ATM is out of service). Conversely, to say that someone is on duty, you use 'de servicio', as in 'El médico de guardia está de servicio esta noche' (The on-call doctor is on duty tonight).

El servicio de habitaciones está disponible las veinticuatro horas del día.

Noun Complement: Using 'de' to specify the type of service, such as 'servicio de limpieza' (cleaning service) or 'servicio de transporte' (transport service).

Another vital construction is 'servicio a', which indicates the recipient or target of the service. The most ubiquitous example is 'servicio al cliente' (customer service). You might say, 'El departamento de servicio al cliente resolverá su queja' (The customer service department will resolve your complaint). Similarly, 'servicio a domicilio' translates to home delivery service, an essential phrase when ordering food: '¿Tienen servicio a domicilio?' (Do you have delivery service?).

Pedimos una pizza con servicio a domicilio porque llovía mucho.

Verb Collocations: Common verbs paired with 'servicio' include 'ofrecer' (to offer), 'prestar' (to provide), and 'dar' (to give).

When using 'servicio' to mean restroom, it is typically used with verbs of location or movement, such as 'estar' (to be) or 'ir' (to go). For instance, 'Voy a los servicios un momento' (I am going to the restrooms for a moment) or 'Los servicios están al fondo a la derecha' (The restrooms are at the back on the right).

La empresa presta un servicio esencial a la comunidad local.

Adjective Placement: Adjectives usually follow the noun ('servicio excelente'), but descriptive adjectives of quality can sometimes precede it for emphasis ('un excelente servicio').

El tren está temporalmente fuera de servicio por mantenimiento.

Gracias por su servicio y dedicación durante todos estos años.

In more abstract or professional contexts, 'servicio' is often pluralized to refer to a category of economic activity. For example, 'El sector de los servicios ha crecido enormemente este año' (The services sector has grown enormously this year). Understanding these structural patterns and common phrases will significantly enhance your ability to construct natural, accurate, and contextually appropriate sentences in Spanish, allowing you to communicate effectively in a wide variety of situations.

The word 'servicio' is ubiquitous in the Spanish-speaking world, echoing through diverse environments ranging from casual street corners to formal corporate boardrooms. One of the most immediate and practical places you will hear this word is in the hospitality industry. When dining at a restaurant, you might overhear patrons discussing the quality of the waitstaff, saying, 'El servicio aquí es muy lento' (The service here is very slow), or praising it with, 'Dejamos una buena propina por el excelente servicio' (We left a good tip for the excellent service). In hotels, 'servicio' is a constant presence. You will encounter 'servicio de habitaciones' (room service) when you want to order breakfast in bed, or 'servicio de limpieza' (housekeeping service) when requesting fresh towels.

Por favor, llame al servicio de habitaciones para pedir la cena.

Travel and Tourism: Frequently heard in airports, train stations, and hotels referring to amenities, assistance, and facilities available to travelers.

Another highly common scenario where 'servicio' is heard is in public spaces and transportation hubs, specifically when people are looking for the restroom. In Spain, it is incredibly common to hear someone politely ask a store clerk or a waiter, 'Perdone, ¿tienen servicios?' (Excuse me, do you have restrooms?). You will also see the word printed on signs pointing towards the toilets, often simply reading 'Servicios' or 'Aseos y Servicios'.

Los servicios públicos de esta ciudad necesitan mucha mejora.

Civic and Government: Used in news broadcasts and political discussions regarding public utilities, healthcare, education, and municipal maintenance.

In the corporate and commercial sectors, 'servicio' is the backbone of customer relations. If you buy a defective product, you will likely be directed to 'servicio al cliente' or 'servicio técnico' (technical support). Automated phone menus frequently use this terminology: 'Para servicio al cliente, presione el uno' (For customer service, press one). Furthermore, in the realm of modern technology and entertainment, the word is used to describe digital subscriptions, such as 'servicios de streaming' (streaming services) or 'servicios en la nube' (cloud services).

El servicio técnico reparó mi computadora portátil en solo dos horas.

Religious Context: In Protestant and evangelical communities, a church gathering or mass is often referred to as a 'servicio religioso' or simply 'el servicio'.

El pastor anunció que el servicio del domingo comenzará más temprano.

Paramos en la estación de servicio para llenar el tanque de gasolina.

Finally, you will hear 'servicio' in contexts related to employment and duty. A police officer or security guard might state they are 'de servicio' (on duty). Historically and in some modern contexts, 'el servicio' can also refer to domestic staff or household employees, though this usage is becoming less common in favor of more specific or respectful terms. By paying attention to these diverse environments, learners can quickly grasp the contextual nuances of 'servicio' and apply it accurately in their own conversations.

When learning the Spanish word 'servicio', English speakers often encounter a few specific pitfalls due to direct translation habits, cultural differences in vocabulary, and prepositional confusion. One of the most frequent mistakes is misunderstanding the regional nuances of using 'servicio' to mean restroom. While 'los servicios' is perfectly standard and polite in Spain, using it in some Latin American countries might sound overly formal, slightly archaic, or simply confusing compared to the more universally understood 'el baño' or 'el sanitario'. A learner in Mexico asking for 'los servicios' might be met with a momentary blank stare before the listener realizes they mean 'el baño'.

El letrero dice que el baño está fuera de servicio.

Preposition Errors: Mixing up 'de servicio' (on duty) and 'fuera de servicio' (out of order) with incorrect prepositions like 'en servicio' when meaning on duty.

Another common error involves the literal translation of English idioms. For instance, in English, we might say 'to do someone a service' meaning to do them a favor. If a learner translates this directly to 'hacer un servicio a alguien', it can sound awkward or even carry unintended transactional or inappropriate connotations depending on the context. The correct Spanish equivalent for doing a favor is 'hacer un favor'. Similarly, the English phrase 'service station' translates to 'estación de servicio', but learners sometimes mistakenly invent phrases like 'estación de gasolina' (which is understood but less formal) or incorrectly use 'gasolinera' when referring to a full rest stop.

El guardia de seguridad está de servicio toda la noche.

Gender Agreement: Because 'servicio' ends in 'o', it is masculine. A common beginner mistake is using feminine articles or adjectives, such as 'la servicio' or 'servicio buena'.

Furthermore, learners often struggle with the verb pairings for 'servicio'. In English, we 'provide' a service. In Spanish, while 'proveer un servicio' is understood, it is much more natural and common to say 'prestar un servicio' or 'ofrecer un servicio'. Using 'dar un servicio' is acceptable in casual conversation but lacks the professional polish of 'prestar'.

Nuestra empresa se enorgullece de prestar un servicio de alta calidad.

Pluralization for Restrooms: When asking for the toilet, always use the plural 'los servicios'. Asking for 'el servicio' might make the waiter think you are complaining about their work.

Los servicios están limpios y bien mantenidos.

No puedo usar el cajero porque está fuera de servicio.

Lastly, confusion arises with the phrase 'servicio militar'. English speakers might try to translate 'to serve in the military' literally, but in Spanish, the standard expression is 'hacer el servicio militar' (to do military service). By being aware of these common pitfalls—especially regarding regional vocabulary for restrooms, correct prepositions, and natural verb collocations—learners can use 'servicio' with confidence and accuracy, avoiding awkward misunderstandings and sounding much more like a native speaker.

To truly enrich your Spanish vocabulary, it is essential to understand the synonyms and alternatives to 'servicio', as choosing the right word can significantly alter the tone, formality, and precise meaning of your sentence. While 'servicio' is a broad and highly useful term, there are many situations where a more specific word is preferable. When 'servicio' is used to mean 'attention' or 'care', particularly in a customer-facing environment, the word 'atención' is an excellent alternative. For example, instead of saying 'El servicio al cliente es bueno', you can say 'La atención al cliente es buena'. 'Atención' emphasizes the personal care and focus given to the customer, rather than just the transactional provision of a service.

La atención en este hospital es mucho mejor que el servicio en el otro.

Atención vs. Servicio: 'Atención' focuses on the interpersonal aspect of care, while 'servicio' can refer to the overall system, product, or mechanical provision.

When 'servicio' refers to the restroom, the alternatives are vast and highly dependent on regional dialects. The most universal alternative is 'el baño', which is understood everywhere and is the go-to term in Latin America. In Spain, 'el aseo' is a very common and polite alternative to 'los servicios'. Another term is 'el sanitario', which is somewhat formal and often used in public buildings or signs in Latin America. 'El retrete' refers specifically to the toilet bowl itself and is rarely used to ask for the room, similar to the English word 'commode' or 'water closet'.

Prefiero usar el término baño en lugar de servicio cuando viajo por México.

Restroom Synonyms: Baño (Universal), Aseo (Spain), Sanitario (Formal/Latin America), Tocador (Ladies' room/Powder room).

In professional and formal contexts, 'asistencia' (assistance) is a strong alternative. For example, 'servicio técnico' can also be called 'asistencia técnica'. When referring to a favor or help, instead of a direct translation of 'do me a service', you should use 'ayuda' (help) or 'favor' (favor). For instance, '¿Me puedes hacer un favor?' (Can you do me a favor?).

Necesito asistencia técnica porque el servicio de internet no funciona.

Prestación: A highly formal word used in economics and human resources to describe services, benefits, or allowances provided to employees or citizens.

Las prestaciones de esta empresa incluyen un excelente servicio médico.

Gracias por tu ayuda, me has hecho un gran servicio.

By familiarizing yourself with these alternatives—such as atención, baño, aseo, asistencia, and prestación—you can navigate different social registers, regional dialects, and professional environments with greater precision, ensuring that your Spanish is not only grammatically correct but also contextually rich and culturally appropriate.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The word 'servilleta' (napkin) shares the same root as 'servicio'. It originally referred to a small cloth used by servants to clean the table or their hands, literally meaning 'little servant cloth'.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /seɾˈβi.θjo/

US /seɾˈβi.sjo/

ser-VI-cio. The stress falls on the penultimate syllable 'vi'.

Reimt sich auf

vicio oficio edificio beneficio sacrificio juicio prejuicio quicio desquicio bullicio

Häufige Fehler

Pronouncing the 'v' as a hard English 'v'. In Spanish, 'v' and 'b' sound identical, like a soft 'b'.
Stressing the wrong syllable, such as 'ser-vi-CIO'. The stress must be on 'VI'.
Pronouncing the 'i' and 'o' at the end as two separate syllables (ci-o). They form a diphthong and are pronounced together as one syllable (cio).
In Latin America, trying to force the Spanish 'th' sound for the 'c', which sounds unnatural in that region.
Failing to roll the single 'r' slightly. It is a tap, not a hard English 'r'.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 2/5

Very easy to recognize due to its similarity to the English word 'service'. Context usually makes the meaning clear.

Schreiben 3/5

Spelling is straightforward, but learners must remember it is spelled with a 'c' and not an 's' in the middle.

Sprechen 4/5

Pronunciation can be tricky for English speakers due to the soft 'v' (pronounced like 'b') and the diphthong 'io' at the end.

Hören 3/5

Easy to catch in a sentence, but learners must quickly deduce if the speaker means 'help', 'broken', or 'toilet' based on context.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

el un bueno malo estar

Als Nächstes lernen

atención baño cliente ofrecer prestar

Fortgeschritten

prestación servidumbre externalización terciario abnegación

Wichtige Grammatik

Gender Agreement

El buen servicio (masculine singular), los buenos servicios (masculine plural).

Preposition 'de' for Noun Complements

Servicio de limpieza (Cleaning service).

Contraction 'al' (a + el)

Servicio al cliente (Customer service).

Ser vs. Estar

El servicio ES bueno (characteristic). El ascensor ESTÁ fuera de servicio (temporary state).

Pluralization for polite requests

¿Dónde están LOS servicios? (Using plural for restroom).

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Beispiele nach Niveau

El servicio en este restaurante es muy bueno.

The service in this restaurant is very good.

Uses the masculine singular article 'el' and the adjective 'bueno' agreeing in gender and number.

Disculpe, ¿dónde están los servicios?

Excuse me, where are the restrooms?

Uses the plural form 'los servicios' which is the standard polite way to ask for the restroom in Spain.

El servicio es muy lento hoy.

The service is very slow today.

Pairs the noun with the descriptive adjective 'lento' (slow).

Los servicios están a la derecha.

The restrooms are to the right.

Uses the verb 'estar' to indicate location.

No me gusta el servicio aquí.

I don't like the service here.

Basic expression of preference using 'no me gusta'.

El servicio de limpieza es excelente.

The cleaning service is excellent.

Introduces the preposition 'de' to specify the type of service.

¿Tienen servicio a domicilio?

Do you have delivery service?

A fixed phrase 'servicio a domicilio' meaning home delivery.

El servicio cuesta cinco euros.

The service costs five euros.

Using the noun as the subject of the verb 'costar' (to cost).

El ascensor está fuera de servicio.

The elevator is out of service.

Uses the critical fixed expression 'fuera de servicio'.

Llamé al servicio al cliente ayer.

I called customer service yesterday.

Uses the contraction 'al' (a + el) before 'cliente'.

Quiero pedir el servicio de habitaciones.

I want to order room service.

Uses the specific phrase 'servicio de habitaciones'.

La estación de servicio está muy cerca.

The gas station is very close.

Introduces 'estación de servicio' as a synonym for gas station.

El médico está de servicio esta noche.

The doctor is on duty tonight.

Uses 'de servicio' to mean 'on duty'.

Pagamos por el servicio de internet.

We pay for the internet service.

Combines 'servicio' with a modern utility 'internet'.

El servicio de trenes es muy puntual.

The train service is very punctual.

Uses 'servicio' to describe public transportation operations.

Los servicios públicos son importantes.

Public services are important.

Introduces the plural concept of 'servicios públicos'.

La empresa ofrece un servicio de transporte gratuito para sus empleados.

The company offers a free transport service for its employees.

Uses the verb 'ofrecer' (to offer) with 'servicio'.

Mi abuelo hizo el servicio militar cuando era joven.

My grandfather did military service when he was young.

Uses the fixed phrase 'hacer el servicio militar'.

El servicio técnico reparó mi ordenador en menos de dos horas.

Technical support repaired my computer in less than two hours.

Uses 'servicio técnico' as the subject of the sentence.

Durante la huelga, se mantendrán los servicios mínimos.

During the strike, minimum services will be maintained.

Introduces the civic concept of 'servicios mínimos'.

Estoy a su servicio para cualquier cosa que necesite.

I am at your service for anything you need.

Uses the polite idiomatic phrase 'a su servicio'.

Muchos jóvenes realizan servicio comunitario los fines de semana.

Many young people do community service on weekends.

Combines 'servicio' with the adjective 'comunitario'.

El sector de servicios genera la mayor parte del empleo en el país.

The service sector generates most of the employment in the country.

Uses 'sector de servicios' in an economic context.

Contratamos un servicio de catering para la boda de mi hermana.

We hired a catering service for my sister's wedding.

Uses the verb 'contratar' (to hire) with 'servicio'.

La prestación de servicios de salud es un derecho fundamental.

The provision of health services is a fundamental right.

Uses the formal noun phrase 'prestación de servicios'.

Las plataformas de servicios de streaming han revolucionado la industria del entretenimiento.

Streaming service platforms have revolutionized the entertainment industry.

Incorporates modern technology vocabulary 'servicios de streaming'.

El contrato estipula claramente las condiciones del servicio prestado.

The contract clearly stipulates the conditions of the service provided.

Uses the past participle 'prestado' as an adjective modifying 'servicio'.

El político prometió mejorar la calidad de los servicios públicos si ganaba las elecciones.

The politician promised to improve the quality of public services if he won the elections.

Complex sentence structure discussing public policy.

El domingo asistiremos a un servicio religioso especial en la catedral.

On Sunday we will attend a special religious service at the cathedral.

Uses 'servicio religioso' in a cultural/religious context.

La externalización de servicios informáticos redujo los costes de la empresa.

The outsourcing of IT services reduced the company's costs.

Uses advanced business vocabulary 'externalización'.

Es un honor estar al servicio de una causa tan noble.

It is an honor to be at the service of such a noble cause.

Uses the abstract phrase 'estar al servicio de'.

La gasolinera es la única estación de servicio abierta a estas horas de la madrugada.

The gas station is the only service station open at this early hour of the morning.

Uses 'estación de servicio' in a complex descriptive sentence.

Con sus declaraciones irresponsables, el portavoz le hizo un flaco servicio a la campaña del candidato.

With his irresponsible statements, the spokesperson did a disservice to the candidate's campaign.

Uses the advanced idiom 'hacer un flaco servicio' (to do a disservice).

El auge del sector terciario, o sector servicios, ha transformado la estructura macroeconómica de la nación.

The rise of the tertiary sector, or service sector, has transformed the macroeconomic structure of the nation.

Academic economic vocabulary linking 'sector terciario' and 'sector servicios'.

El abogado facturó una cantidad exorbitante por sus servicios de asesoría jurídica.

The lawyer billed an exorbitant amount for his legal advisory services.

Uses 'servicios' in a formal legal and financial context.

Históricamente, el término se refería al personal doméstico, conocido colectivamente como el servicio.

Historically, the term referred to domestic staff, known collectively as the service.

Discusses the historical and sociological evolution of the word's meaning.

La interrupción del servicio eléctrico causó estragos en el centro de datos de la multinacional.

The interruption of the electrical service wreaked havoc in the multinational's data center.

High-level vocabulary ('estragos', 'interrupción') combined with 'servicio'.

El contrato de prestación de servicios mercantiles fue redactado por un bufete de prestigio.

The commercial service provision contract was drafted by a prestigious law firm.

Highly formal legal terminology 'prestación de servicios mercantiles'.

La vocación de servicio público debería ser el requisito indispensable para cualquier cargo político.

The vocation for public service should be the indispensable requirement for any political office.

Abstract philosophical use of 'vocación de servicio'.

El software se ofrece bajo el modelo de software como servicio, conocido por sus siglas en inglés SaaS.

The software is offered under the software as a service model, known by its English acronym SaaS.

Technical IT jargon integrating 'servicio' into modern acronyms.

La abnegación con la que se entregó al servicio de los más desfavorecidos roza la santidad.

The selflessness with which he dedicated himself to the service of the most disadvantaged borders on sanctity.

Highly literary and elevated syntax expressing profound dedication.

En la literatura caballeresca, el caballero andante rinde pleitesía y servicio incondicional a su dama.

In chivalric literature, the knight-errant pays homage and unconditional service to his lady.

Explores the archaic and literary historical usage of 'servicio'.

La mercantilización de los servicios esenciales plantea un dilema ético de proporciones incalculables para el estado del bienestar.

The commodification of essential services poses an ethical dilemma of incalculable proportions for the welfare state.

Complex socio-political analysis using advanced vocabulary ('mercantilización').

Su intervención en el debate fue brillante, prestando un servicio invaluable a la clarificación de los conceptos esgrimidos.

His intervention in the debate was brilliant, providing an invaluable service to the clarification of the concepts put forward.

Uses 'prestar un servicio' in a highly abstract, intellectual context.

El entramado burocrático dificulta enormemente la agilización de los servicios consulares en el extranjero.

The bureaucratic framework greatly hinders the streamlining of consular services abroad.

Discusses complex governmental processes using precise terminology.

Resulta paradójico que, en la era de la hiperconectividad, el servicio de atención personalizada haya sufrido un detrimento tan palpable.

It is paradoxical that, in the era of hyperconnectivity, personalized customer service has suffered such a palpable detriment.

Sophisticated critique of modern society incorporating 'servicio'.

El tratado de libre comercio liberaliza el intercambio transfronterizo de servicios financieros y de telecomunicaciones.

The free trade agreement liberalizes the cross-border exchange of financial and telecommunications services.

Macroeconomic and international trade terminology.

Más allá de la mera transacción económica, el verdadero servicio al prójimo requiere una empatía genuina y desinteresada.

Beyond the mere economic transaction, true service to one's neighbor requires genuine and selfless empathy.

Philosophical and moral reflection on the true nature of 'servicio'.

Häufige Kollokationen

servicio al cliente

fuera de servicio

servicio de habitaciones

estar de servicio

servicios públicos

servicio a domicilio

prestar un servicio

estación de servicio

servicio técnico

hacer un flaco servicio

Häufige Phrasen

¿Dónde están los servicios?

— Where are the restrooms? A polite and essential phrase for travelers in Spain.

Perdone, ¿dónde están los servicios?

A su servicio

— At your service. A polite way to offer help or respond to a thank you.

Muchas gracias por la ayuda. - A su servicio.

Servicio de limpieza

— Cleaning service or housekeeping. Common in hotels and corporate environments.

El servicio de limpieza pasará por su habitación a las diez.

Sector servicios

— Service sector. The tertiary sector of the economy.

El sector servicios es el motor de la economía española.

Servicios mínimos

— Minimum services. The essential services maintained by law during a labor strike.

Los trenes operarán con servicios mínimos por la huelga.

Servicio militar

— Military service. Conscription or mandatory duty in the armed forces.

Mi padre hizo el servicio militar en la marina.

Condiciones de servicio

— Terms of service. The legal agreements for using software or websites.

Debes aceptar las condiciones de servicio para crear una cuenta.

Servicio de urgencias

— Emergency service or emergency room. The hospital department for urgent care.

Tuvimos que ir al servicio de urgencias anoche.

Buen servicio

— Good service. Used to praise the quality of work or attention received.

Dejé una buena propina por el buen servicio.

Mal servicio

— Bad service. Used to complain about poor quality of work or attention.

No volveré a ese restaurante por el mal servicio.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

servicio vs Baño

Both mean restroom, but 'baño' is more common in Latin America, while 'servicios' is polite in Spain.

servicio vs Atención

Both relate to customer care, but 'atención' focuses on the personal, human interaction, while 'servicio' is the overall system.

servicio vs Servidor

A 'servidor' is a server (computer or person), while 'servicio' is the service itself.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"Hacer un flaco servicio"

— To do a disservice. To do something that harms rather than helps, despite intentions.

Con esa actitud, le haces un flaco servicio a tu equipo.

formal

"Estar al servicio de"

— To be at the service of. To be dedicated to helping or serving a person or cause.

El gobierno debe estar al servicio de los ciudadanos.

formal

"Hoja de servicios"

— Service record. A record of someone's career, achievements, or behavior, often military or professional.

El general tiene una hoja de servicios impecable.

formal

"Prestar servicio"

— To serve or to provide a service. Often used for machines or public transport operating.

Esta línea de autobús dejará de prestar servicio a medianoche.

neutral

"Entrar en servicio"

— To go into service or become operational. Used for new machines, ships, or infrastructure.

El nuevo tren de alta velocidad entrará en servicio el próximo mes.

neutral

"Dejar fuera de servicio"

— To knock out of action or disable. Can be used literally for machines or figuratively.

La tormenta dejó fuera de servicio la red eléctrica.

neutral

"Servicio de inteligencia"

— Intelligence service. The government agency responsible for gathering secret information.

El servicio de inteligencia descubrió el complot.

neutral

"Servicio de mensajería"

— Courier service or messaging service. Used for physical package delivery or digital apps.

Envié el documento por un servicio de mensajería urgente.

neutral

"Servicio de guardia"

— On-call service. Used for pharmacies or doctors available outside normal hours.

Tuve que buscar una farmacia con servicio de guardia.

neutral

"Poner al servicio de"

— To put at the disposal of. To offer one's skills or resources to help someone.

Pongo mi experiencia al servicio de esta empresa.

formal

Leicht verwechselbar

servicio vs Servicio vs. Baño

Both are used to ask for the toilet.

'Baño' literally means bath and is universal. 'Servicios' is a polite euphemism (facilities) highly common in Spain.

En España pregunto por los servicios, en México por el baño.

servicio vs Servicio vs. Atención

Both translate to 'service' in customer contexts.

'Atención' is the care and politeness of the staff. 'Servicio' includes the speed, the food, and the overall system.

La atención del camarero fue buena, pero el servicio de cocina fue lento.

servicio vs De servicio vs. En servicio

Prepositions change the meaning drastically.

'De servicio' means a person is on duty. 'En servicio' means a machine or system is currently operating.

El policía está de servicio. El tren está en servicio.

servicio vs Servicio vs. Favor

English speakers say 'do me a service'.

In Spanish, you do not 'hacer un servicio' to help a friend; you 'hacer un favor'.

¿Me haces un favor? (Not: ¿Me haces un servicio?).

servicio vs Servicio vs. Siervo

Similar roots relating to serving.

'Servicio' is the abstract noun for service. 'Siervo' is a historical noun meaning serf or servant.

El siervo trabajaba la tierra; el servicio al cliente atiende el teléfono.

Satzmuster

El servicio es + [adjective].

El servicio es rápido.

¿Dónde están los servicios?

[Subject] está fuera de servicio.

El tren está fuera de servicio.

Necesito el servicio de + [noun].

Necesito el servicio de habitaciones.

[Company] ofrece un servicio de + [noun].

La tienda ofrece un servicio de entrega.

[Person] está de servicio.

El doctor está de servicio.

La prestación de servicios + [verb].

La prestación de servicios mejoró.

Hacer un flaco servicio a + [noun].

Le hizo un flaco servicio a la empresa.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

servidor

servidora

servidumbre

servilismo

servilleta

Verben

servir

servirse

Adjektive

servicial

servible

inservible

servil

Verwandt

atención

asistencia

prestación

utilidad

beneficio

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So verwendest du es

frequency

Top 1000 most common words in Spanish.

Häufige Fehler

El cajero está fuera del servicio. → El cajero está fuera de servicio.
Do not use the article 'el' (del) in this fixed expression. It is always 'fuera de servicio'.
La servicio en este hotel es buena. → El servicio en este hotel es bueno.
'Servicio' is a masculine noun. All articles and adjectives must agree and be masculine.
¿Me haces un servicio? → ¿Me haces un favor?
Do not translate 'do me a service' literally. In Spanish, you ask someone to do you a 'favor'.
El baño está en servicio. → El baño funciona / El baño está disponible.
While 'fuera de servicio' means broken, you don't typically say a toilet is 'en servicio' to mean it works. You say it 'funciona' (works).
¿Dónde está el servicio? → ¿Dónde están los servicios?
When asking for the restroom, it is much more natural and polite to use the plural form 'los servicios'.

Tipps

Watch the Prepositions

Always double-check your prepositions. 'Fuera DE servicio' (broken), 'DE servicio' (on duty), 'servicio A domicilio' (delivery). Getting these wrong sounds very unnatural.

Spain vs. Latin America

If traveling to Spain, memorize 'los servicios' for the restroom. If traveling to Latin America, memorize 'el baño'. Adjusting to the region makes you sound much more fluent.

The Soft V

Do not bite your lip to make an English 'v' sound. The 'v' in 'servicio' is pronounced exactly like a soft Spanish 'b', with the lips barely touching.

Use 'Prestar'

In a business meeting or formal email, always pair 'servicio' with the verb 'prestar' (prestar un servicio) rather than 'dar' or 'hacer'. It elevates your professional Spanish instantly.

Polite Responses

If you work in a customer-facing role, using 'a su servicio' when a customer says 'gracias' is a fantastic way to show high-level politeness and cultural awareness.

Look for Signs

When walking around a Spanish city, look for signs saying 'Servicios' or 'Aseos'. It's a great way to reinforce the vocabulary in a real-world context.

Plural for Restrooms

When writing a story or dialogue where someone asks for the toilet, always write 'los servicios' in the plural. Writing 'el servicio' sounds like they are asking about the waiter's job.

Road Trips

If you are driving in a Spanish-speaking country, 'estación de servicio' is a crucial phrase. It means gas station, but usually implies there are also restrooms and a small shop.

Flaco Servicio

Impress native speakers by using the idiom 'hacer un flaco servicio' (to do a disservice) when discussing politics or someone's poor decision-making.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Imagine a SERVant bringing you an ICE-cold drink. SERV-ICE-io. The servant provides excellent SERVICIO.

Visuelle Assoziation

Visualize a classic silver serving tray with a dome cover. When you lift the cover, instead of food, there is a glowing sign that says 'SERVICIO', representing both restaurant service and the concept of offering help.

Word Web

servicio servir (verb) servicial (helpful) fuera de servicio (broken) los servicios (restroom) servicio al cliente (support) estación de servicio (gas) servidor (server)

Herausforderung

Next time you go to a restaurant, mentally evaluate the 'servicio'. Is it 'bueno', 'malo', 'rápido', or 'lento'? Try to form a full Spanish sentence in your head describing the experience.

Wortherkunft

The word 'servicio' comes from the Latin word 'servitium', which meant slavery, servitude, or the condition of a slave. Over centuries, the meaning evolved from referring strictly to forced labor to encompassing any form of work, duty, or assistance provided to another person. This evolution reflects societal changes from feudal systems to modern service-based economies. The root is shared with the verb 'servir' (to serve).

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: Slavery, servitude, or the condition of being a slave (from Latin 'servitium').

Indo-European > Italic > Romance > Western Romance > Ibero-Romance > Spanish.

Kultureller Kontext

Be cautious using 'el servicio' to refer to domestic workers or maids. While historically common, it can sound classist or derogatory today. It is more respectful to use 'empleada del hogar' or 'personal de limpieza'.

English speakers often expect fast, highly attentive service and associate 'service' strictly with business. In Spanish, 'servicio' is broader, covering civic duties and polite euphemisms for toilets.

The classic Spanish phrase 'A Dios rogando y con el mazo dando' often relates to the concept of active service and hard work. In Don Quixote, the concept of 'servicio' to one's lady (Dulcinea) is a central theme of chivalry. The song 'Servicio de lavandería' (Laundry Service) is the title of a famous album by Colombian singer Shakira.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

At a restaurant

El servicio es excelente
Incluye el servicio
Mal servicio
Servicio a domicilio

Asking for the restroom

¿Dónde están los servicios?
Voy a los servicios
Los servicios de señoras
Los servicios de caballeros

Encountering broken machines

Fuera de servicio
No funciona
Está roto
Servicio técnico

At a hotel

Servicio de habitaciones
Servicio de limpieza
Servicio de lavandería
A su servicio

Business and Economics

Servicio al cliente
Sector servicios
Prestación de servicios
Bienes y servicios

Gesprächseinstiege

"¿Qué te pareció el servicio en ese nuevo restaurante italiano?"

"Perdone la molestia, ¿podría indicarme dónde están los servicios?"

"¿Crees que el servicio al cliente ha empeorado con la inteligencia artificial?"

"¿Hiciste el servicio militar o ya no era obligatorio en tu época?"

"El cajero está fuera de servicio, ¿sabes si hay otro cerca?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Escribe sobre una vez que recibiste un servicio al cliente excepcionalmente bueno o malo.

Describe los servicios públicos (transporte, limpieza) en tu ciudad. ¿Son eficientes?

¿Qué opinas sobre el crecimiento del sector servicios en la economía moderna?

Narra una anécdota divertida o frustrante buscando los 'servicios' en un país extranjero.

¿Qué significa para ti la frase 'estar al servicio de los demás'?

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

While it will likely be understood in formal contexts like airports or fancy restaurants, it is not the common term. Mexicans overwhelmingly use 'el baño' or 'el sanitario'. Using 'los servicios' might sound overly formal or foreign.

The phrase 'fuera de servicio' is a fixed idiomatic expression. It functions as an adjective phrase meaning 'out of order'. Adding the article 'el' (del) changes the meaning to literally being outside of a specific service, which is incorrect for broken machines.

It is a masculine noun. It ends in 'o', which is the standard marker for masculine nouns in Spanish. Always use 'el', 'los', 'un', or 'unos' with it, and ensure adjectives are masculine (e.g., 'buen servicio').

The most common and universally understood translation is 'servicio al cliente'. Another very common variation is 'atención al cliente', which emphasizes the care and attention given to the customer.

It is the formal term for a gas station or petrol station. While words like 'gasolinera' are more common in everyday speech, 'estación de servicio' is widely used on road signs and in formal contexts.

Both are grammatically correct, but 'prestar un servicio' is much more professional, formal, and natural in business contexts. 'Dar un servicio' sounds a bit basic or casual.

It is a polite euphemism, similar to saying 'the facilities' or 'the restrooms' in English, even if there is only one room. It abstracts the concept to sound more polite and less direct.

It is the direct translation of 'room service' in a hotel. You use this phrase when you want to order food or amenities to be brought directly to your hotel room.

Yes, 'servicio militar' is the exact translation for military service or conscription. The verb used with it is 'hacer' (to do), as in 'hacer el servicio militar'.

It means 'at your service'. It is a very polite and common phrase used by staff in hospitality or retail to offer help, or as a courteous reply when someone thanks them.

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