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A2 noun #4,500 am häufigsten 11 Min. Lesezeit

tornillo

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Erklärung tornillo in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should learn the word 'tornillo' as a basic noun for a common object. It is a masculine word: 'el tornillo'. You might use it when talking about simple things in your house that are broken or when you see someone working with tools. Think of it as a small metal piece that you turn to fix things. You don't need to know technical types yet, just that it is a 'screw'. You will mostly see it in the plural form 'tornillos' because they usually come in boxes or are used together. Practice saying 'Necesito un tornillo' (I need a screw) or '¿Dónde está el tornillo?' (Where is the screw?). This level is about identification and basic needs. You might associate it with the verb 'poner' (to put) or 'buscar' (to look for). It is one of those words that helps you describe the physical world around you in a very simple way. Even at this early stage, knowing the difference between a 'tornillo' and a 'clavo' (nail) is very helpful for basic communication in a household or shop.

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At the A2 level, you can start using 'tornillo' in more complete sentences and with common verbs. You should know that you use a 'destornillador' (screwdriver) to 'atornillar' (to screw) or 'desatornillar' (to unscrew) a tornillo. You can describe the screw using basic adjectives like 'grande' (big), 'pequeño' (small), 'largo' (long), or 'corto' (short). This is also the level where you might encounter the common idiom 'le falta un tornillo' to describe someone who is acting a bit crazy. You should be able to follow simple instructions like 'Pon los tornillos en la madera' (Put the screws in the wood). You are moving from just naming the object to describing what you do with it. You might also start to notice that there are different heads, like 'tornillo de estrella' (Phillips) or 'tornillo plano' (flathead), which is very useful if you are buying furniture from a store like IKEA and reading the assembly manual in Spanish. This level focuses on functional use in daily life.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'tornillo' in technical and metaphorical contexts. You can describe the state of a screw, such as 'oxidado' (rusty) or 'flojo' (loose). You can explain a process: 'Primero, hay que aflojar el tornillo para quitar la tapa' (First, you have to loosen the screw to remove the cover). You will also understand the difference between 'tornillo' and 'perno' (bolt) in most common situations. This is where you start to use more specific verbs like 'apretar' (to tighten) and 'ajustar' (to adjust). You might also hear the expression 'darle una vuelta de tuerca' (to give it a turn of the nut/screw), which means to take something a step further or to improve a situation. Your vocabulary expands to include the parts of the screw, like the 'rosca' (thread) and the 'cabeza' (head). You can now participate in conversations about home improvement or basic mechanical repairs, expressing opinions and giving advice using the conditional or subjunctive moods, such as 'Si yo fuera tú, apretaría más ese tornillo' (If I were you, I would tighten that screw more).

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At the B2 level, you can use 'tornillo' in professional and specialized settings. You understand the mechanics of the 'tornillo sin fin' (worm gear) and can discuss engineering concepts in Spanish. You are familiar with technical terms like 'tornillo autorroscante' (self-tapping screw) or 'tornillo de acero inoxidable' (stainless steel screw). You can read complex assembly instructions or technical manuals without much difficulty. In terms of idioms, you understand the nuance of 'apretar los tornillos a alguien' (to put pressure on someone) and can use it correctly in a business or social context. You can also describe the physical properties of the screw in detail, such as the 'paso de rosca' (thread pitch) or the 'par de apriete' (torque). At this level, your use of the word is precise and context-aware. You can explain why a certain type of screw is better for a specific material, using complex sentence structures and a wide range of technical vocabulary. You are no longer just talking about fixing things; you are talking about the science and strategy of construction and maintenance.

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At the C1 level, the word 'tornillo' becomes a tool for sophisticated expression and idiomatic mastery. You can use it in literary or highly formal contexts to describe intricate mechanisms, both literal and figurative. You might use the concept of a 'tornillo' to describe the 'gran engranaje' (great gear) of society or a complex political system where every small part matters. Your understanding of metaphors is deep; you can use 'apretar los tornillos' in a subtle way to describe psychological pressure or systemic changes. You are also aware of regional variations in terminology across the Spanish-speaking world, such as the use of 'pija' in Mexico or 'perno' in various South American countries for specific industrial applications. You can engage in technical debates about materials science or mechanical design, using the word 'tornillo' as just one element in a vast technical lexicon. You can also appreciate the word's etymology and its historical development within the Spanish language, using it as a springboard for discussions about linguistics or the history of technology.

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At the C2 level, you have total mastery over the word 'tornillo' and its entire semantic field. You can use it with the precision of a native mechanical engineer or a master carpenter. You understand the most obscure technical applications, such as the use of screws in surgical implants or aerospace micro-mechanisms. Your use of idioms is flawless, and you can create your own metaphors based on the mechanics of a screw to convey complex philosophical or social ideas. You can navigate any technical document, legal contract involving construction, or historical text about industrialization with ease. You can also switch between different registers and regional dialects perfectly, knowing exactly when to use 'tornillo', 'perno', 'espárrago', or 'bulón' depending on the audience and the location. For you, the word is not just a vocabulary item; it is a versatile tool that you can manipulate to achieve any communicative goal, from writing a technical dissertation to telling a joke about a loose screw. You understand the cultural weight of the word and its role in the industrial identity of Spanish-speaking nations.

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Tornillo is the Spanish word for screw, a essential fastener used in construction and daily life to join materials securely by rotating it.
It is a masculine noun (el tornillo) and is frequently paired with the tool 'destornillador' (screwdriver) and verbs like 'atornillar' (to screw).
Beyond its literal meaning, it is used in common idioms like 'faltarle un tornillo' to describe someone who is acting a bit crazy.
Commonly confused with 'clavo' (nail), a tornillo is distinguished by its helical thread and the fact that it is turned rather than hammered.

The Spanish word tornillo refers to a fundamental mechanical component known in English as a screw. At its core, a tornillo is a simple machine—an inclined plane wrapped around a central cylinder. This helical thread allows it to convert rotational motion into linear motion, creating a powerful fastening force. In the Spanish-speaking world, the word is ubiquitous, appearing in contexts ranging from basic home repairs to advanced aerospace engineering. Understanding this word is essential because it is one of the first technical terms a learner encounters when dealing with physical objects, DIY projects, or even metaphorical descriptions of personality. The word is masculine, preceded by the article 'el' (el tornillo) and pluralized as 'los tornillos'. It is not just a piece of metal; it represents the concept of stability and connection. When you look at a piece of furniture, a computer, or a car, you are looking at thousands of tornillos holding our modern world together.

Mechanical Definition: A cylinder with a helical ridge, used as a fastener that is driven into a material by rotation.
Industrial Context: Used in manufacturing to join two or more parts securely while allowing for future disassembly.
Domestic Context: Commonly found in flat-pack furniture assembly and hanging pictures on walls.

El carpintero apretó el tornillo con mucha fuerza para fijar la pata de la mesa.

Necesito un tornillo de cabeza plana para terminar este proyecto de bricolaje.

Este tornillo está oxidado y no quiere salir de la madera vieja.

¿Tienes un tornillo más largo? Este es demasiado corto para la pared.

Se me cayó un tornillo del reloj y ahora no puedo encontrarlo en el suelo.

Beyond the physical object, the tornillo is a symbol of precision. In technical Spanish, you will find various types of tornillos: 'tornillo de madera' (wood screw), 'tornillo de rosca chapa' (sheet metal screw), and 'tornillo Allen' (Allen screw). Each has a specific purpose and requires a specific tool, the 'destornillador' (screwdriver). The act of using a tornillo is 'atornillar' (to screw in) or 'desatornillar' (to unscrew). This semantic field is rich and essential for anyone wanting to navigate a hardware store or 'ferretería'. Whether you are talking about the tiny screws in your glasses or the massive bolts in a bridge, the term tornillo is your starting point. It is a word that bridges the gap between the mundane and the architectural, making it a cornerstone of functional Spanish vocabulary.

Using the word tornillo in a sentence requires an understanding of its grammatical role and its common pairings with verbs and adjectives. As a masculine noun, it is always used with masculine articles and adjectives. For example, 'el tornillo pequeño' (the small screw) or 'muchos tornillos' (many screws). The most common verbs associated with tornillo are 'apretar' (to tighten), 'aflojar' (to loosen), 'poner' (to put/place), and 'quitar' (to remove). When you are assembling something, you might say, 'Estoy apretando los tornillos de la silla' (I am tightening the screws of the chair). If a screw is stripped or damaged, you would use the adjective 'pasado' or 'barrido', as in 'Este tornillo está pasado' (This screw is stripped).

Subject Position: El tornillo se rompió mientras intentaba sacarlo de la pared vieja.
Object Position: Por favor, pásame ese tornillo que está sobre la mesa de trabajo.
Prepositional Phrase: La caja está llena de tornillos de diferentes tamaños y materiales.

¿Podrías apretar este tornillo un poco más? Siento que la puerta está floja.

No uses ese tornillo para metal en una superficie de madera delicada.

El mecánico buscó un tornillo de repuesto para el motor del coche.

Si el tornillo está muy duro, aplica un poco de aceite lubricante.

Compré una bolsa de cien tornillos porque siempre se pierden.

When describing the physical attributes of a tornillo, you can use words like 'punta' (tip), 'cabeza' (head), and 'rosca' (thread). For example, 'El tornillo tiene una punta afilada' (The screw has a sharp tip). In a sentence, the position of the adjective can change the emphasis. 'Un tornillo largo' is simply a long screw, while 'el largo tornillo' (less common) might be used in more poetic or descriptive prose. In everyday conversation, you'll most often hear it in instructions: 'Pon el tornillo en el agujero y gíralo a la derecha' (Put the screw in the hole and turn it to the right). Mastery of this word allows you to give and follow directions in practical scenarios, making it a vital part of your communicative toolkit in Spanish.

The word tornillo is heard in a variety of settings, from the most practical to the most metaphorical. The most obvious place is the 'ferretería' (hardware store). In Spanish-speaking cultures, ferreterías are local hubs where people go not just to buy tools, but to ask for advice. You will hear customers asking for 'un tornillo para madera de dos pulgadas' (a two-inch wood screw) or 'tornillos autorroscantes' (self-tapping screws). Another common place is in the home, especially during furniture assembly. If you are helping a friend move, you will inevitably hear, '¿Dónde dejaste los tornillos de la cama?' (Where did you leave the bed screws?). In professional environments like construction sites or auto repair shops (talleres mecánicos), the word is spoken a hundred times a day.

Ferretería: '¿Me da una caja de tornillos de estrella, por favor?' (Can I have a box of Phillips head screws, please?)
Taller Mecánico: 'Hay que revisar los tornillos de las ruedas para asegurar que estén bien apretados.'
Home/DIY: 'Cuidado, no pierdas ese tornillo, es el único que tenemos para el soporte de la televisión.'

En la ferretería del barrio, el dueño siempre sabe qué tornillo necesitas para tu proyecto.

Escuché un ruido extraño en el motor, parece que un tornillo se soltó.

Al montar el armario de IKEA, me sobró un tornillo y ahora estoy preocupado.

El arquitecto mencionó que los tornillos de la estructura deben ser de acero inoxidable.

En la clase de tecnología, aprendimos los diferentes tipos de tornillos y sus usos.

Beyond the physical, you will hear tornillo in idiomatic expressions. If someone is acting irrational, a friend might whisper, 'A ese le falta un tornillo'. In a business meeting, a manager might say, 'Tenemos que apretar los tornillos al equipo de ventas' (We need to tighten the screws on the sales team), meaning they need to work harder or be more disciplined. The word is also common in technical tutorials on YouTube or in manuals. Whether you are watching a Spanish cooking show where they fix a loose pot handle or a documentary on the Panama Canal, the tornillo is there. It is a word that anchors the language in reality, providing a tangible reference point for learners to grasp the mechanics of both objects and social interactions.

One of the most common mistakes for English speakers learning Spanish is confusing tornillo with other fasteners. The primary confusion is with 'clavo' (nail). While both hold things together, a clavo is driven by a hammer and has a smooth shank, whereas a tornillo is rotated by a screwdriver and has threads. Another common mix-up is with 'perno' (bolt). In many contexts, these terms are used interchangeably, but technically, a perno usually requires a 'tuerca' (nut) and is often larger. Learners also frequently struggle with the gender of the word. Since it ends in '-o', it is masculine, but learners sometimes mistakenly use 'la tornillo' because they might associate tools with the feminine 'herramienta'.

Tornillo vs. Clavo: Confusing a screw (tornillo) with a nail (clavo). Remember: screws turn, nails are hit.
Tornillo vs. Perno: A perno (bolt) is usually larger and used with a nut, while a tornillo is usually smaller and goes directly into the material.
Gender Errors: Using 'la tornillo' instead of 'el tornillo'. Tools are often feminine (la sierra, la llave), but tornillo is masculine.

Incorrecto: Necesito un clavo para mi destornillador. (You need a tornillo for a screwdriver).

Incorrecto: La tornillo está sucia. (Correct: El tornillo está sucio).

Confusión: Usar 'rosca' para referirse al objeto completo. La rosca es solo la espiral del tornillo.

Error de verbo: 'Martillar un tornillo'. (Correct: Atornillar un tornillo).

Error de plural: 'Los tornillos son pequeñas'. (Correct: Los tornillos son pequeños).

Another subtle mistake involves the use of the verb 'enroscar'. While it means 'to thread' or 'to screw on', it is more often used for caps on bottles or lightbulbs. For the physical act of driving a screw into wood or metal, 'atornillar' is the correct verb. Additionally, learners often forget that 'tornillo' can refer to the 'worm' in a worm gear or other mechanical parts. Using the word too broadly or too narrowly can lead to confusion in technical discussions. To avoid these errors, always visualize the object: if it has a spiral and you need a screwdriver, it is a tornillo. If you hit it with a hammer, it is a clavo. If you need a wrench (llave) and a nut (tuerca), it is likely a perno. Keeping these distinctions clear will make your Spanish much more precise and professional.

While tornillo is the standard word for a screw, there are several related terms that you should know to expand your vocabulary and understand technical nuances. The most common alternative is 'perno', which refers to a bolt. In many cases, especially in Latin America, 'tornillo' and 'perno' are used interchangeably in casual speech, but in engineering, they are distinct. Another related word is 'clavo' (nail), which is the non-threaded equivalent. For specialized screws, you might hear 'tirafondo', which is a heavy-duty lag screw often used in wood construction. Understanding these alternatives helps you choose the right word for the right job.

Perno: Bolt. Usually larger than a tornillo and used with a nut (tuerca).
Clavo: Nail. A smooth fastener driven by impact rather than rotation.
Remache: Rivet. A permanent fastener used in metalwork and aviation.

En lugar de un tornillo, el constructor usó un perno pasante para mayor seguridad.

Para este tipo de madera, un clavo podría rajar la tabla; es mejor usar un tornillo.

El remache es ideal cuando no necesitas desmontar las piezas en el futuro.

Un tirafondo es necesario para fijar vigas gruesas de madera.

La pija (en México) es un término común para los tornillos autorroscantes.

Comparing these words is like looking at a toolkit. A tornillo is your general-purpose fastener. A perno is for heavy-duty strength. A clavo is for quick, simple tasks. An espárrago is for specialized mechanical alignment. In some regions, you might also encounter 'escarpia' (a hook-shaped screw) or 'alcayata' (a L-shaped nail/screw). Learning these distinctions not only makes you sound more like a native speaker but also prevents dangerous or costly mistakes in real-world applications. When you are in a shop, being able to say 'No quiero un clavo, quiero un tornillo de estrella' (I don't want a nail, I want a Phillips head screw) shows a level of precision that command respect and ensures you get exactly what you need for your project.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The technology of the screw was known to the ancient Greeks (Archimedes' screw), but the word 'tornillo' in its modern sense of a fastener only became common much later as manufacturing precision improved.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /tɔːˈniː.joʊ/

US /tɔrˈni.jo/

The stress is on the second syllable: tor-NI-llo.

Reimt sich auf

martillo anillo brillo cepillo pasillo bolsillo amarillo castillo

Häufige Fehler

Pronouncing 'll' as an 'l' sound (it should be 'y').
Putting the stress on the first syllable (TOR-nillo).
Confusing the 'o' at the end with an 'u' sound.
Pronouncing the 'r' too softly like in English.
Not making the 'i' sound long enough.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 2/5

The word is short and follows standard phonetic rules, making it easy to recognize in text.

Schreiben 3/5

The double 'll' can be a challenge for beginners, but it is a common Spanish spelling pattern.

Sprechen 3/5

Pronouncing the 'll' correctly as a 'y' sound is key for sounding natural.

Hören 2/5

It is a distinct-sounding word that is usually easy to hear in context.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

metal herramienta madera pequeño mano

Als Nächstes lernen

destornillador martillo tuerca clavo ferretería

Fortgeschritten

rosca par de apriete cizalladura galvanizado hexagonal

Wichtige Grammatik

Nouns ending in -o are usually masculine.

El tornillo (The screw).

Pluralization of nouns ending in a vowel adds -s.

Los tornillos (The screws).

The double 'll' is a single phoneme in Spanish.

Tornillo is pronounced with a 'y' sound.

Adjective agreement in gender and number.

Tornillos largos (Long screws).

Verbs can be formed from nouns (denominal verbs).

Tornillo -> Atornillar (To screw).

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Beispiele nach Niveau

El tornillo es pequeño.

The screw is small.

Simple subject-verb-adjective structure.

Necesito un tornillo.

I need a screw.

Verb 'necesitar' + indefinite article.

¿Dónde está el tornillo?

Where is the screw?

Interrogative sentence with 'estar'.

Tengo muchos tornillos.

I have many screws.

Plural noun with 'muchos'.

El tornillo es de metal.

The screw is made of metal.

Describing material with 'de'.

Mira el tornillo.

Look at the screw.

Imperative form of 'mirar'.

Un tornillo y un clavo.

A screw and a nail.

Comparing two common fasteners.

El tornillo está aquí.

The screw is here.

Using 'estar' for location.

Usa el destornillador para el tornillo.

Use the screwdriver for the screw.

Connecting a tool with its object.

El tornillo de la silla está flojo.

The chair screw is loose.

Genitive 'de' and adjective 'flojo'.

A ese hombre le falta un tornillo.

That man has a screw loose.

Common idiom for being crazy.

Atornilla el tornillo en la madera.

Screw the screw into the wood.

Verb 'atornillar' derived from 'tornillo'.

No pierdas los tornillos del armario.

Don't lose the wardrobe screws.

Negative imperative.

Este tornillo es demasiado largo.

This screw is too long.

Adverb 'demasiado' modifying the adjective.

Compré tornillos de estrella.

I bought Phillips head screws.

Specifying the type of screw head.

Quita el tornillo con cuidado.

Remove the screw carefully.

Adverbial phrase 'con cuidado'.

Apreta el tornillo hasta que esté firme.

Tighten the screw until it is firm.

Subjunctive 'esté' after 'hasta que'.

Si el tornillo está oxidado, usa aceite.

If the screw is rusty, use oil.

Conditional sentence 'si' + present.

Hay que aflojar todos los tornillos primero.

You have to loosen all the screws first.

Impersonal 'hay que' + infinitive.

El tornillo se rompió por la presión.

The screw broke because of the pressure.

Reflexive 'se' for accidental actions.

Busco un tornillo de rosca fina.

I'm looking for a fine-thread screw.

Technical adjective 'rosca fina'.

Los tornillos sujetan la estantería a la pared.

The screws hold the shelf to the wall.

Verb 'sujetar' meaning to hold/fasten.

No puedo sacar el tornillo porque está pasado.

I can't get the screw out because it's stripped.

Adjective 'pasado' in a technical sense.

Esos tornillos son de acero inoxidable.

Those screws are made of stainless steel.

Compound material noun.

El jefe le está apretando los tornillos al equipo.

The boss is tightening the screws on the team.

Idiomatic use for putting pressure.

Asegúrate de que el tornillo esté bien nivelado.

Make sure the screw is well leveled.

Subjunctive after 'asegurarse de que'.

El mecanismo utiliza un tornillo sin fin.

The mechanism uses a worm gear.

Specific technical term 'tornillo sin fin'.

Este tornillo autorroscante no necesita agujero previo.

This self-tapping screw doesn't need a pilot hole.

Technical adjective 'autorroscante'.

Se requiere un par de apriete específico para cada tornillo.

A specific torque is required for each screw.

Passive 'se' with technical vocabulary.

Los tornillos de la culata deben apretarse en orden.

The cylinder head screws must be tightened in order.

Infinitive passive 'apretarse'.

La vibración hizo que los tornillos se aflojaran.

The vibration caused the screws to loosen.

Subjunctive 'aflojaran' after 'hizo que'.

El diseño contempla tornillos ocultos para la estética.

The design includes hidden screws for aesthetics.

Formal verb 'contemplar'.

La reforma legislativa dio una vuelta de tuerca a la ley.

The legislative reform gave a new twist to the law.

Abstract idiomatic usage.

La precisión del tornillo micrométrico es asombrosa.

The precision of the micrometric screw is amazing.

Scientific/Technical register.

El sistema se mantiene unido por tornillos invisibles de lealtad.

The system is held together by invisible screws of loyalty.

Metaphorical/Literary use.

Es imperativo verificar la integridad de los tornillos de anclaje.

It is imperative to verify the integrity of the anchor bolts.

Formal/Professional imperative structure.

La corrosión galvánica afectó a los tornillos de latón.

Galvanic corrosion affected the brass screws.

Advanced scientific terminology.

El carpintero ebanista prefiere tornillos de latón por su acabado.

The master carpenter prefers brass screws for their finish.

Specific professional vocabulary.

No podemos permitir que un solo tornillo suelto arruine el proyecto.

We cannot allow a single loose screw to ruin the project.

Subjunctive 'arruine' after 'permitir que'.

La estandarización de los tornillos fue clave en la Revolución Industrial.

The standardization of screws was key in the Industrial Revolution.

Historical/Academic context.

La fatiga del metal provocó la cizalladura del tornillo principal.

Metal fatigue caused the shearing of the main screw.

Highly technical engineering terms.

El ajuste del tornillo de ralentí debe ser milimétrico.

The adjustment of the idle screw must be precise to the millimeter.

Specific automotive terminology.

La idiosincrasia del autor se refleja en cada tornillo de su prosa.

The author's idiosyncrasy is reflected in every screw of his prose.

Highly abstract literary metaphor.

Se analizó la resistencia a la tracción de los tornillos de titanio.

The tensile strength of the titanium screws was analyzed.

Scientific research register.

La pátina del tiempo ha soldado los tornillos a la estructura.

The patina of time has welded the screws to the structure.

Poetic/Descriptive advanced language.

La optimización del paso de rosca redujo la fricción operativa.

The optimization of the thread pitch reduced operational friction.

Technical optimization context.

Cualquier tornillo mal ajustado compromete la seguridad aeroespacial.

Any poorly adjusted screw compromises aerospace safety.

High-stakes professional context.

El tratado aborda la normativa sobre tornillería de alta resistencia.

The treaty addresses the regulations on high-strength hardware.

Legal/Bureaucratic technical register.

Häufige Kollokationen

apretar un tornillo

aflojar un tornillo

tornillo de estrella

tornillo plano

tornillo oxidado

cabeza de tornillo

rosca de tornillo

poner un tornillo

quitar un tornillo

tornillo autorroscante

Häufige Phrasen

Paso de rosca

— The distance between threads of a screw. Often used technically.

Este tornillo tiene un paso de rosca diferente.

Tornillo de banco

— A bench vise used to hold workpieces. Essential in workshops.

Sujeta la madera en el tornillo de banco.

Tornillo sin fin

— A worm gear or an endless screw. Used in mechanics.

El ascensor funciona con un sistema de tornillo sin fin.

Tornillo Allen

— A screw with a hexagonal socket in the head. Common in furniture.

Necesitas una llave hexagonal para el tornillo Allen.

Tornillo de madera

— A screw specifically designed for use in wood. Usually pointed.

Compra una caja de tornillos de madera de 30mm.

Tornillo de metal

— A screw designed for metal, often with finer threads.

Los tornillos de metal son más resistentes.

Tornillo pasante

— A bolt that goes all the way through the materials. Usually used with a nut.

Usa un tornillo pasante para unir las dos vigas.

Tornillo de presión

— A screw used to exert pressure on an object. Often found in clamps.

Ajusta el tornillo de presión para que no se mueva la pieza.

Tornillo de seguridad

— A screw designed to be difficult to remove without a special tool.

Las ruedas del coche tienen tornillos de seguridad.

Bolsa de tornillos

— A bag of screws. Common way to buy them in hardware stores.

Trae la bolsa de tornillos que está en el coche.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

tornillo vs clavo

A nail is hit with a hammer and has no threads; a screw is turned.

tornillo vs perno

A bolt is often larger and used with a nut, while a screw goes into the material.

tornillo vs tuerca

A nut is the female part that receives the screw or bolt.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"Faltarle un tornillo"

— To be crazy or eccentric. Very common in informal Spanish.

A Juan le falta un tornillo, siempre habla solo.

informal

"Apretar los tornillos a alguien"

— To put pressure on someone to make them act or work harder.

El jefe nos está apretando los tornillos para terminar el proyecto.

neutral/informal

"Darle una vuelta de tuerca"

— To give something a new twist or to intensify a situation. Related to screws.

Vamos a darle una vuelta de tuerca a la estrategia de marketing.

neutral

"Estar pasado de rosca"

— To have gone too far or to be out of control. Like a stripped screw.

Ese político está pasado de rosca con sus comentarios.

informal

"No tener ni un tornillo"

— To be completely broke or to have nothing (regional variation).

Después de las vacaciones, no me queda ni un tornillo.

slang

"Ser un tornillo"

— To be a small but essential part of a larger organization.

Cada empleado es un tornillo en esta gran empresa.

neutral

"Apretar el último tornillo"

— To put the finishing touches on something.

Ya casi terminamos, solo falta apretar el último tornillo.

neutral

"Tornillo flojo"

— A weakness or a point of failure in a plan or person.

Su falta de puntualidad es el tornillo flojo de su carrera.

metaphorical

"Hacerse un tornillo"

— To get confused or tangled up (regional slang).

Me hice un tornillo con las instrucciones del mapa.

informal

"A rosca"

— Something that is screwed on or works by turning.

Esta tapa va a rosca, no tires de ella.

neutral

Leicht verwechselbar

tornillo vs clavo

Both are common fasteners.

A clavo is smooth and driven by force; a tornillo is threaded and driven by rotation.

Usa un clavo para la pared y un tornillo para el mueble.

tornillo vs perno

Similar appearance and function.

Pernos are usually heavy-duty and require a nut (tuerca) on the other side.

Este puente usa pernos gigantes, no simples tornillos.

tornillo vs rosca

Related to the screw's body.

Rosca refers specifically to the spiral thread, while tornillo is the whole object.

El tornillo tiene una rosca muy larga.

tornillo vs pija

Regional synonym.

In Mexico, 'pija' is used for wood or self-tapping screws; 'tornillo' is more general.

En la ferretería pedí pijas pero me dieron tornillos normales.

tornillo vs remache

Metal fastener.

A remache is permanent and deformed to hold; a tornillo is threaded and removable.

Los aviones usan remaches, los coches usan muchos tornillos.

Satzmuster

El [objeto] tiene un tornillo.

El juguete tiene un tornillo.

Necesito un tornillo para [verbo].

Necesito un tornillo para arreglar la mesa.

Si el tornillo está [adjetivo], hay que [verbo].

Si el tornillo está flojo, hay que apretarlo.

Usa el [herramienta] para el tornillo.

Usa el destornillador para el tornillo.

El tornillo sirve para [infinitivo] las piezas.

El tornillo sirve para unir las piezas de metal.

Asegúrate de que los tornillos estén [participio].

Asegúrate de que los tornillos estén bien apretados.

A pesar de ser un simple tornillo, es [adjetivo].

A pesar de ser un simple tornillo, es fundamental para la estructura.

La integridad depende de la calidad de la tornillería.

La integridad de la nave depende de la calidad de la tornillería empleada.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

tornillería

destornillador

atornillado

desatornillador

Verben

atornillar

desatornillar

tornear

Adjektive

atornillado

desatornillado

tornasolado

Verwandt

tuerca

clavo

perno

herramienta

ferretería

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So verwendest du es

frequency

Highly frequent in household, construction, and mechanical contexts.

Häufige Fehler

Using 'clavo' for everything. → Tornillo for screws, clavo for nails.
Many learners use 'clavo' as a generic term for all fasteners, but they are very different tools in Spanish.
Saying 'la tornillo'. → El tornillo.
Tornillo is a masculine noun. Always use 'el' or 'un'.
Pronouncing the 'll' as 'l'. → Pronounce it like 'y'.
Pronouncing 'tornillo' as 'tornilo' is a very common English-speaker error.
Using 'rosca' to mean the screw. → Tornillo.
While 'rosca' is related, it only refers to the thread. The object itself is the tornillo.
Confusing 'atornillar' with 'martillar'. → Atornillar for screws, martillar for nails.
You use a screwdriver to 'atornillar' and a hammer to 'martillar'. Don't mix up the actions.

Tipps

Learn the Verb Pair

Always learn 'tornillo' alongside 'atornillar' (to screw) and 'destornillador' (screwdriver). These three words form a functional set that you will always use together.

Watch the Gender

Remember it is 'EL tornillo'. Even though tools are often feminine in Spanish (la llave, la sierra), this one is masculine. Practice with 'un tornillo pequeño'.

Use Idioms Carefully

The phrase 'le falta un tornillo' is funny but informal. Use it with friends when someone does something silly, but avoid it in professional or serious situations.

The Double L

The 'll' in tornillo should sound like the 'y' in 'yellow'. Avoid pronouncing it like a single 'l' or it will be hard for native speakers to understand.

Specify the Head

If you are in a shop, specify 'de estrella' (Phillips) or 'plano' (flathead). This small detail makes you sound much more proficient in Spanish.

Turn to Learn

Associate 'tornillo' with the English word 'turn'. You turn a tornillo. This phonetic and conceptual link will help you remember the word easily.

Identify the Threads

Look for the 'rosca' (thread). If it has one, it's a tornillo. If it doesn't, it's a clavo. This physical distinction is the best way to categorize the vocabulary.

Ferretería Etiquette

In a Spanish ferretería, don't just point. Try saying 'Necesito tornillos para madera'. The shopkeeper will appreciate the effort and help you better.

Tighten the Screws

Use 'apretar los tornillos' when talking about management or discipline. It's a very effective way to express that someone needs to be more strict.

Don't Strip It

If a screw is damaged, say it is 'pasado' or 'barrido'. This is essential for explaining why you can't remove a part or why you need a new one.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of a 'TORN' piece of paper that you fix with a 'ni-llo' (little knee) of metal. Or, imagine 'TOR-ning' (turning) the screw.

Visuelle Assoziation

Visualize a silver screw with a spiral 'staircase' (the thread) going down its body. The 'head' looks like a flat cap or a star.

Word Web

herramienta metal rosca cabeza carpintería mecánica destornillador tuerca

Herausforderung

Go to your kitchen or garage and find five different objects held together by a **tornillo**. Say out loud: 'Aquí hay un tornillo'.

Wortherkunft

The word 'tornillo' is a diminutive of 'torno', which comes from the Latin 'tornus'. The Latin 'tornus' itself is derived from the Greek 'tornos', meaning a lathe or a tool for drawing circles.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: A small lathe or a small turning object.

Romance (Latin-based).

Kultureller Kontext

Be careful with the idiom 'le falta un tornillo' as it can be offensive if used to mock actual mental health issues. It is best used for quirky or silly behavior.

In English, we say 'screw' for both the object and the act. In Spanish, we distinguish between 'tornillo' (noun) and 'atornillar' (verb).

The character 'Tornillo' in some Spanish comic strips. Frankenstein's monster is often described as having 'tornillos' in his neck in Spanish translations. The song 'El Tornillo' by various tropical artists using the metaphor of tightening things up.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Carpintería (Carpentry)

Tornillo para madera
Atornillar la tabla
Tornillo de cabeza plana
Agujero para el tornillo

Mecánica (Mechanics)

Apretar los tornillos del motor
Tornillo de rosca métrica
Tornillo Allen
Aflojar el tornillo de drenaje

Bricolaje (DIY)

Montar el mueble con tornillos
Bolsa de tornillos variados
Perder un tornillo
Tornillo de repuesto

Ferretería (Hardware Store)

¿Tiene tornillos de acero?
Una caja de tornillos de estrella
Tornillos de dos pulgadas
Precio por tornillo

Idiomatic Speech

Le falta un tornillo
Apretar los tornillos
Pasado de rosca
Dar una vuelta de tuerca

Gesprächseinstiege

"¿Sabes dónde puedo comprar tornillos de buena calidad por aquí?"

"¿Alguna vez has montado un mueble y te ha sobrado un tornillo?"

"¿Qué herramientas crees que son más importantes que un simple tornillo?"

"¿Conoces a alguien a quien realmente 'le falte un tornillo'?"

"¿Prefieres usar tornillos o clavos para tus proyectos en casa?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Describe un momento en el que tuviste que arreglar algo y te faltaba un tornillo importante.

Escribe sobre una persona excéntrica que conozcas, usando la metáfora del tornillo.

Imagina que eres un pequeño tornillo en una gran máquina. ¿Cuál es tu función y cómo te sientes?

Haz una lista de todas las cosas en tu habitación que están sujetas por tornillos.

Escribe un diálogo en una ferretería donde intentas explicar qué tipo de tornillo necesitas sin saber el nombre técnico.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

Se dice 'tornillo'. Es una palabra masculina: 'el tornillo'.

Un tornillo tiene rosca y se gira con un destornillador. Un clavo es liso y se golpea con un martillo.

Es un modismo que significa que alguien está un poco loco o es muy excéntrico.

Se dice 'destornillador'. Es la herramienta que se usa para los tornillos.

Es un tornillo con una cruz en la cabeza, conocido en inglés como 'Phillips head screw'.

El verbo es 'atornillar'. Para lo opuesto, se usa 'desatornillar'.

Una tuerca es la pieza con un agujero roscado que se pone al final de un tornillo o perno.

Sí, es extremadamente común en cualquier contexto de construcción, reparación o montaje.

Simplemente se añade una 's': 'tornillos'.

Sí, hay muchos: para madera, para metal, autorroscantes, Allen, de seguridad, etc.

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