At the A1 level, the word computar is quite advanced. Most beginners will first learn the word computadora (computer) or ordenador. However, you can think of computar as the 'action' version of a computer. Even though you won't use it in daily conversation, it's helpful to know it means 'to calculate' or 'to count' in a very official way.

Imagine you are playing a game with numbers. If you add 2 + 2, you are doing a simple calculation. But if a big machine does it for a whole school, we call that 'computar'. It is like a super-powered version of 'counting'. You might see this word on a website when it is loading your results or on a news program talking about election numbers.

At this stage, just remember that it ends in -ar, so it works like hablar or cantar. Yo computo, tú computas, él computa. You probably won't need to say it yourself yet, but recognizing it will help you understand that something official or technical is happening with numbers.

As an A2 learner, you are starting to see more professional and technical words. Computar is a verb you might encounter in a workplace or when reading basic news articles. While you usually use contar (to count) or calcular (to calculate), computar is used when the counting is done by a system or follows a strict rule.

For example, if you are talking about your working hours, you might say: 'El sistema debe computar mis horas.' This means the computer system is officially recording and adding up your time. It sounds much more professional than saying 'El sistema cuenta mis horas'.

You should also know that this word is related to computación (computer science). So, whenever you see 'computar', think about data, math, and machines. It is a 'serious' word for counting. If you are counting apples in a basket, don't use it! Use it for things like points in a game, hours at work, or data on a screen.

At the B1 level, you should begin to distinguish between synonyms like contar, calcular, and computar. Computar is specifically used for the formal accounting of time, votes, or data. It is very common in administrative contexts, which you might encounter if you live in a Spanish-speaking country.

A very important use for B1 students is in the context of 'deadlines' (plazos). In Spanish, we say 'computar un plazo' to mean calculating how much time you have to finish a task or submit a document. For example: 'Los fines de semana no se computan para el plazo de entrega.' (Weekends are not counted for the delivery deadline).

You will also hear it in the passive voice often: 'Se computan los resultados.' This is a natural way to describe processes where the person doing the counting isn't as important as the fact that the counting is happening. Start using computar in your writing when you want to sound more precise and formal, especially in emails related to work or school.

At the B2 level, you are expected to use computar correctly in its primary professional contexts: technology, law, and administration. You should understand that computar implies an algorithmic or systematic process. It is the verb of choice when discussing how an AI processes information or how a legal sentence is calculated based on time already served.

In technical discussions, computar is the standard verb for 'to compute'. You might talk about the 'capacidad de computar' (computing power) of a new processor. In a business context, you would use it to describe how certain variables are factored into a final result: 'No hemos computado los gastos de envío en el presupuesto final.'

You should also be aware of the noun form cómputo. The phrase 'el cómputo global' (the overall tally/count) is a very common B2-level expression. Using computar instead of calcular in these situations shows that you have a grasp of 'register'—you know that different situations require different levels of formality and technical precision.

For C1 learners, computar is a tool for achieving high-level precision in both written and spoken Spanish. You should be comfortable using it in complex legal or economic arguments. For instance, in a legal essay, you might discuss how 'la prescripción del delito se debe computar desde el momento en que cesó la actividad ilícita' (the statute of limitations must be calculated from the moment the illegal activity ceased).

You should also recognize its metaphorical or extended uses, though they are less common than in English. While 'it doesn't compute' is an English idiom, in Spanish, computar can be used in academic discourse to mean 'to take into account' or 'to factor in' within a theoretical framework. For example: 'Este modelo no computa las variables sociopolíticas, lo que limita su validez.'

At this level, you should also be sensitive to regional preferences. While computar is universal, its frequency in legal versus technical contexts can vary slightly between Spain and various Latin American countries. Your goal is to use the word to eliminate ambiguity, showing that a calculation is not just an estimate but a formal, rule-bound determination.

At the C2 level, you should have a complete mastery of computar, including its most obscure legal and technical nuances. You understand its role in 'Derecho Procesal' (procedural law) and 'Derecho Penal' (criminal law), where the 'cómputo de penas' or 'cómputo de plazos' are fundamental concepts with strict rules (e.g., días hábiles vs. días naturales).

You can use the verb to describe high-level abstractions in computer science, such as 'computar funciones no recursivas' or discussing 'complejidad computacional'. In these contexts, computar is not just about math but about the theoretical limits of what can be processed by a logical system. Your usage should be indistinguishable from that of a native professional in these fields.

Furthermore, you should be able to critique the use of the word. For example, you might point out when a speaker uses computar as an unnecessary anglicism (influenced by 'to compute' meaning 'to make sense') and suggest a more traditional Spanish alternative like cuadrar or asimilar. Your mastery involves not just knowing what the word means, but knowing exactly where its boundaries lie in the vast landscape of the Spanish language.

computar 30초 만에

  • Computar is a formal Spanish verb meaning to calculate or count within a systematic, technical, or legal framework.
  • It is frequently used for processing data, totaling election votes, and determining legal deadlines or work seniority.
  • Unlike the general 'calcular', it implies a rule-based or machine-led process that ensures high precision and officiality.
  • Avoid using it for casual counting; instead, reserve it for professional, academic, or administrative contexts where accuracy is key.

The Spanish verb computar is a sophisticated term that goes far beyond the simple act of using a computer. At its core, it refers to the process of calculating, enumerating, or accounting for something in a precise, often technical or legal manner. While an English speaker might immediately think of 'computing' in a digital sense, in Spanish, the word retains a strong link to its Latin roots, computāre, which means to calculate or to count together. This distinction is vital for learners who want to sound natural in professional or formal environments.

Technical Calculation
In the realm of mathematics and engineering, it describes the systematic processing of data or numerical values to reach a result. It implies a level of complexity that simple 'counting' does not cover.

El servidor tarda varios segundos en computar la trayectoria del satélite.

Beyond technology, computar is a staple in legal and administrative Spanish. When lawyers or officials talk about deadlines, sentences, or periods of time, they use this verb to describe how those periods are measured. For example, if a law states that you have ten days to appeal a decision, the way those ten days are counted—whether weekends are included or if the count starts the day after the notice—is the act of computar el plazo. This specific usage makes the word indispensable for anyone dealing with Spanish bureaucracy or legal systems.

Legal Accounting
This refers to the formal recognition of time or credits. For example, 'computar los años de servicio' means to officially count years of work toward a pension or seniority benefit.

Los días de vacaciones no se van a computar dentro del periodo de prueba.

In social and political contexts, the word appears during elections. When votes are being tallied and processed, the action is often described as 'computar los votos'. This suggests a formal, verified counting process rather than a casual tally. It carries an weight of authority and finality. If you are watching a news broadcast during an election in Spain or Latin America, you will frequently hear the presenters discuss the percentage of 'votos computados', referring to the ballots that have been officially processed and added to the total.

Con el noventa por ciento de las mesas computadas, la tendencia parece irreversible.

Data Processing
In the context of Information Technology (IT), it is the action of a processor performing operations on input data. It is the literal translation of 'to compute' in a silicon-chip context.

Finally, it is worth noting that computar is almost always used transitively, meaning it takes a direct object. You compute a time, a number, a result, or a vote. It is a verb of action and precision. While 'calcular' is its closest synonym, 'computar' is the word of choice when the calculation is part of a formal system or a complex machine-led process. Understanding this nuance allows a learner to move from basic communicative competence to a more nuanced, professional level of Spanish.

Es necesario computar el tiempo de espera como parte de la jornada laboral.

Mastering the use of computar requires understanding its grammatical behavior and the specific nouns it typically accompanies. As a regular '-ar' verb, it follows standard conjugation patterns, which makes it relatively easy to use once you know the context. However, the true challenge lies in knowing which direct objects 'fit' with this verb. Common objects include plazos (deadlines), votos (votes), datos (data), and tiempos (times).

Expressing Deadlines
In administrative Spanish, the verb is often used to explain how a period of time is calculated. This is crucial for students, workers, or anyone dealing with official documents.

Para la beca, se deben computar solo los ingresos del último año fiscal.

In this example, 'computar' emphasizes the formal accounting of income. It suggests that there is a specific formula or rule being followed. If you were to use 'contar' here, it would sound too informal, as if you were just counting bills by hand. The use of 'computar' implies an official assessment.

Professional and Technical Contexts
When discussing computer science or engineering, 'computar' is used to describe the execution of algorithms or the processing of large datasets.

El algoritmo es capaz de computar millones de variables en milisegundos.

Notice how 'computar' here conveys a sense of power and speed. It is the professional term for what a CPU does. In a job interview for a tech position, using 'computar' instead of 'hacer cálculos' would immediately demonstrate a higher level of professional Spanish. It shows that you understand the technical terminology of the field.

No podemos computar estos resultados hasta que la base de datos esté limpia.

Legal and Penal Usage
In criminal law, 'computar' is used to determine how much time a prisoner has served or how much remains. It is a very serious and precise application of the word.

For example, a judge might need to decide if time spent in pre-trial detention should be 'computado' (counted) toward the final sentence. This is a life-altering calculation, and the choice of 'computar' reflects the gravity and the strict adherence to legal codes. It is not just a guess; it is a formal determination based on the law.

El juez decidió computar el tiempo de arresto domiciliario como parte de la condena.

In summary, when using computar, think about the system behind the counting. If there is a rulebook, a computer program, or a legal statute governing the math, computar is likely the correct verb. It adds a layer of precision and formality to your Spanish that 'contar' or 'calcular' cannot provide on their own. Practice using it in these specific contexts to truly internalize its meaning.

You are most likely to encounter computar in environments where accuracy and official records are paramount. It is not a word you would typically use while chatting with friends over coffee about how many cookies you ate, but it is a word you will hear constantly if you engage with Spanish-language news, legal systems, or corporate environments. Understanding its 'natural habitat' helps you recognize the tone of a conversation or document immediately.

The Evening News (Elections)
During election nights in Spain, Mexico, Argentina, or Colombia, the word 'computar' is everywhere. News anchors will show maps with 'votos computados' (votes counted/processed).

Aún faltan por computar las actas de las zonas rurales más alejadas.

In this context, 'computar' implies the official verification and digital entry of physical ballot records into the national system. It carries the weight of democratic integrity. If a journalist says the votes are being 'computados', they are telling the public that the formal process of totaling the results is underway. It is a word that signifies progress in a high-stakes situation.

Human Resources and Payroll
If you work in a Spanish-speaking company, you will hear 'computar' when discussing your salary, benefits, or working hours. HR managers use it to explain how your seniority or overtime is calculated.

¿Cómo se van a computar las horas extra que hicimos durante el lanzamiento?

Here, the employee is asking how those hours will be officially recognized and added to their paycheck. 'Computar' is the right word because it involves a formal accounting system. It’s about the transformation of physical work hours into a numerical value in a payroll system. It is also used when deciding if a previous job 'computa' (counts) toward your experience level for a new position.

Academic and Scientific Research
In universities and research labs, 'computar' is used when researchers discuss data analysis and the use of computational models.

El equipo necesita una supercomputadora para computar los modelos climáticos de la próxima década.

In this setting, the word is strictly technical. It refers to the massive number-crunching required for modern science. When a scientist says they are 'computando' something, they are performing complex simulations. This usage is very close to the English 'to compute' and is common in physics, biology, and economics papers.

Finally, you might hear it in sports, specifically in the context of statistics and rankings. When a league determines the final standings, they must 'computar' the points, goal differences, and head-to-head results. If a team is disqualified, their previous games might not 'computar' for the final tally. In all these cases, the word signals that a rule is being applied to numbers to produce an official result.

Los puntos obtenidos en el torneo amistoso no van a computar para el ranking oficial de la FIFA.

For English speakers, the most common pitfall when using computar is overusing it as a direct translation for any action involving a computer. While 'to compute' and 'computar' share a common ancestor, their day-to-day usage in Spanish is narrower and more formal. Avoiding these common mistakes will help you sound more like a native speaker and less like a translation algorithm.

Mistake 1: Using it for 'using a computer'
Many learners mistakenly say 'Estoy computando' when they mean 'I am using my computer'. This is incorrect. If you are browsing the web or writing an email, you should use 'usar el ordenador' (Spain) or 'usar la computadora' (Latin America).

Incorrect: Computo para escribir este informe.
Correct: Uso la computadora para escribir este informe.

The verb computar refers to the internal process of the machine, not the human interaction with it. Unless you are an engineer talking about the processor's activity, stick to 'usar' or 'trabajar con'.

Mistake 2: Confusing it with 'Contabilizar'
In accounting, 'contabilizar' is the specific term for recording a transaction in the books. 'Computar' is more about the calculation itself. For example, you 'computas' the tax amount, and then you 'contabilizas' the payment.

Primero hay que computar el IVA y luego contabilizar la factura.

Another mistake is using 'computar' when you mean 'to realize' or 'to understand'. In English, we sometimes say 'That doesn't compute' to mean 'That doesn't make sense'. While you might be understood in Spanish if you say 'Eso no computa', it is an anglicism. A more natural way to say this in Spanish would be 'Eso no tiene sentido' or 'No me cuadra'.

Anglicism: Lo que dices no computa.
Natural: Lo que dices no tiene sentido.

Mistake 3: Preposition Errors
Learners often try to put a preposition after 'computar', like 'computar por' or 'computar de'. However, it is a transitive verb. You compute [something] directly.

Remember that 'computar' is a high-register word. Using it in a very casual setting, like counting how many people are coming to a party, can sound overly dramatic or robotic. In those cases, 'contar' is your friend. Save 'computar' for when you want to sound precise, professional, or when the calculation is governed by a set of formal rules.

El periodo de prácticas será computado como experiencia laboral previa.

To truly master computar, you must understand its relationship with other 'counting' and 'calculating' verbs in Spanish. Each has its own nuance and 'flavor'. Choosing the right one depends on whether you are doing simple math, formal accounting, or deep data processing.

Computar vs. Calcular
'Calcular' is the most general term. You can calculate the tip, the distance to the moon, or the probability of rain. 'Computar' is more technical and often implies a system-wide or official calculation.

Puedes calcular el precio mentalmente, pero el sistema debe computar el total final con impuestos.

In this example, 'calcular' is the human action, while 'computar' is the official system action. This is the key distinction. 'Calcular' can be an estimate; 'computar' is almost always exact and rule-based.

Computar vs. Contar
'Contar' is the most basic level of counting (1, 2, 3...). It is used for physical objects or people. 'Computar' is used when that counting is part of a larger, more complex process.

Vamos a contar cuántas sillas hay, y luego vamos a computar el coste total del alquiler.

Computar vs. Procesar
In IT, these are close synonyms. However, 'procesar' is broader. You can process a request, a payment, or a document. 'Computar' specifically refers to the mathematical or logical operations involved in that processing.

Think of 'procesar' as the whole journey and 'computar' as the math part of that journey. If a computer is 'procesando' an image, it is 'computando' the pixel values to apply a filter.

El ordenador está procesando la imagen, lo que requiere computar miles de algoritmos.

Summary of Alternatives
  • Tasas: Use valorar or tasar.
  • Inventory: Use inventariar.
  • Statistics: Use tabular or cuantificar.
  • Accounting: Use contabilizar.

By diversifying your vocabulary, you avoid the 'learner's trap' of using one word for everything. Using 'computar' when it is truly appropriate—in technical, legal, or formal calculation contexts—will mark you as an advanced speaker who understands the subtle shades of the Spanish language.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The root 'putāre' also gives us the English word 'prune' (as in cutting trees) because 'reckoning' was seen as 'clearing up' or 'trimming' numbers to find the truth.

발음 가이드

UK /kɒmˈpjuːtɑːr/
US /kɑːmˈpjuːtɑːr/
The stress is on the last syllable: com-pu-TAR.
라임이 맞는 단어
aceptar cantar llegar mirar pensar saltar tardar volar
자주 하는 실수
  • Pronouncing it like the English word 'computer' (ending in 'er' instead of 'ar').
  • Missing the stress on the final syllable.
  • Softening the 'p' sound too much.
  • Not tapping the final 'r'.
  • Pronouncing the 'u' like 'oo' instead of the Spanish 'u' (which is similar but shorter).

난이도

독해 3/5

Common in news and formal texts, easy to recognize from 'computer'.

쓰기 4/5

Requires knowledge of specific collocations like 'plazos' or 'votos'.

말하기 4/5

Not used in casual talk, so it feels unnatural for many learners.

듣기 3/5

Clear pronunciation and usually spoken in formal, slow contexts.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

contar calcular número tiempo máquina

다음에 배울 것

contabilizar procesamiento algoritmo jurisprudencia prescripción

고급

cómputo silente computabilidad complejidad algorítmica

알아야 할 문법

The Passive 'Se'

Se computan los votos cada hora.

Infinitive as a Noun

El computar estos datos es vital.

Direct Object Pronouns

Los datos están listos, vamos a computarlos.

Future Tense Formation

El sistema computará todo mañana.

Conditional for Hypotheses

Si tuviera más potencia, podría computar más rápido.

수준별 예문

1

Yo uso la máquina para computar los números.

I use the machine to compute the numbers.

Basic subject + verb + object structure.

2

El robot puede computar muy rápido.

The robot can compute very fast.

Use of 'poder' + infinitive.

3

¿Puedes computar el total?

Can you compute the total?

Interrogative sentence.

4

Ella necesita computar los puntos del juego.

She needs to compute the game points.

Verb 'necesitar' + infinitive.

5

Nosotros vamos a computar los votos hoy.

We are going to compute the votes today.

Future with 'ir a'.

6

Ellos computan los datos en la oficina.

They compute the data in the office.

Present tense third person plural.

7

Es fácil computar con esta aplicación.

It is easy to compute with this app.

Impersonal 'es' + adjective + infinitive.

8

Mi hermano quiere computar el tiempo.

My brother wants to compute the time.

Verb 'querer' + infinitive.

1

El sistema no puede computar los resultados todavía.

The system cannot compute the results yet.

Negative sentence with modal verb.

2

Tenemos que computar las horas de trabajo.

We have to compute the work hours.

'Tener que' expressing obligation.

3

¿Cómo computan los puntos en este deporte?

How do they compute the points in this sport?

Question word 'cómo'.

4

La computadora tarda en computar la información.

The computer takes time to compute the information.

Verb 'tardar' + 'en' + infinitive.

5

Ellos están aprendiendo a computar datos.

They are learning to compute data.

Present continuous.

6

Mañana vamos a computar los gastos del viaje.

Tomorrow we are going to compute the trip expenses.

Future time marker 'mañana'.

7

El programa ayuda a computar las ventas.

The program helps to compute the sales.

Verb 'ayudar a' + infinitive.

8

Es importante computar cada voto con cuidado.

It is important to compute every vote carefully.

Adverbial phrase 'con cuidado'.

1

Los días festivos no se deben computar como días laborables.

Holidays should not be computed as working days.

Passive 'se' with modal verb.

2

El software comenzó a computar las variables automáticamente.

The software began to compute the variables automatically.

Preterite tense for a specific action.

3

Si no computamos estos gastos, el presupuesto será incorrecto.

If we don't compute these expenses, the budget will be incorrect.

First conditional (if + present, future).

4

Es necesario computar el tiempo de espera en el total.

It is necessary to compute the waiting time in the total.

Substantive clause with infinitive.

5

Al computar los resultados, nos dimos cuenta del error.

Upon computing the results, we realized the error.

'Al' + infinitive to express 'when'.

6

La empresa decidió computar la antigüedad de los empleados.

The company decided to compute the employees' seniority.

Direct object with 'de' for possession.

7

No sé cómo computar esta fórmula en la hoja de cálculo.

I don't know how to compute this formula in the spreadsheet.

Indirect question.

8

Se han computado más de mil encuestas hasta ahora.

More than a thousand surveys have been computed so far.

Present perfect passive 'se'.

1

El tribunal tiene que computar el tiempo que el reo pasó en prisión preventiva.

The court has to compute the time the prisoner spent in pretrial detention.

Relative clause with 'que'.

2

Para computar el éxito de la campaña, usaremos varios indicadores.

To compute the success of the campaign, we will use several indicators.

Infinitive of purpose at the start of the sentence.

3

Los algoritmos de IA pueden computar patrones que los humanos no ven.

AI algorithms can compute patterns that humans don't see.

Plural subject and verb agreement.

4

Es fundamental computar los intereses devengados trimestralmente.

It is essential to compute the interest accrued quarterly.

Technical financial vocabulary (devengados).

5

El sistema tardará horas en computar toda la base de datos.

The system will take hours to compute the entire database.

Future tense of 'tardar'.

6

No se pueden computar estos créditos académicos por ser de otra área.

These academic credits cannot be computed because they are from another area.

Passive 'se' + negative modal.

7

Una vez computados los votos, se anunciará al ganador.

Once the votes are computed, the winner will be announced.

Absolute participial construction.

8

El perito debe computar los daños materiales causados por el incendio.

The expert must compute the material damages caused by the fire.

Specific professional role (perito).

1

La ley establece taxativamente cómo se debe computar el plazo de prescripción.

The law strictly establishes how the statute of limitations must be computed.

Use of advanced adverb 'taxativamente'.

2

Resulta complejo computar el impacto ambiental de esta industria a largo plazo.

It is complex to compute the environmental impact of this industry in the long term.

Verb 'resultar' + adjective.

3

A efectos de jubilación, se computarán todos los años cotizados en el extranjero.

For retirement purposes, all years contributed abroad will be computed.

Formal phrase 'A efectos de'.

4

La supercomputadora fue diseñada específicamente para computar genomas complejos.

The supercomputer was specifically designed to compute complex genomes.

Passive voice with 'ser' + past participle.

5

Es imperativo computar el riesgo financiero antes de realizar la inversión.

It is imperative to compute the financial risk before making the investment.

Formal adjective 'imperativo'.

6

El software no logra computar la paradoja lógica planteada por el usuario.

The software fails to compute the logical paradox posed by the user.

Verb 'lograr' + infinitive.

7

Debemos computar la inflación subyacente para obtener un dato real.

We must compute the underlying inflation to obtain a real figure.

Economic terminology (inflación subyacente).

8

Si se computaran correctamente los beneficios, la empresa no estaría en quiebra.

If the profits were computed correctly, the company would not be bankrupt.

Second conditional (imperfect subjunctive + conditional).

1

La jurisprudencia actual dicta cómo computar los periodos de carencia en los seguros.

Current case law dictates how to compute waiting periods in insurance.

High-level vocabulary (jurisprudencia, periodos de carencia).

2

La capacidad de computar estados cuánticos revolucionará la criptografía moderna.

The ability to compute quantum states will revolutionize modern cryptography.

Future tense for scientific prediction.

3

No podemos obviar la necesidad de computar las externalidades negativas del proyecto.

We cannot ignore the need to compute the negative externalities of the project.

Advanced verb 'obviar' and economic term 'externalidades'.

4

El sistema de pensiones requiere computar la esperanza de vida de forma dinámica.

The pension system requires computing life expectancy dynamically.

Adverb 'dinámicamente' transformed into 'de forma dinámica'.

5

Al computar la masa crítica, el físico confirmó su hipótesis inicial.

Upon computing the critical mass, the physicist confirmed his initial hypothesis.

Scientific context with 'al' + infinitive.

6

La administración se niega a computar los servicios prestados bajo contrato temporal.

The administration refuses to compute services rendered under a temporary contract.

Verb 'negarse a' + infinitive.

7

Sería un error computar estos datos sin antes depurar la muestra estadística.

It would be an error to compute this data without first cleaning the statistical sample.

Conditional mood for hypothetical error.

8

La arquitectura del procesador le permite computar hilos de ejecución paralelos.

The processor architecture allows it to compute parallel threads of execution.

Highly technical computer science terminology.

자주 쓰는 조합

computar plazos
computar votos
computar datos
computar antigüedad
computar el tiempo
computar resultados
computar créditos
computar intereses
computar variables
computar penas

자주 쓰는 구문

a efectos de computar

— For the purpose of calculating or counting.

A efectos de computar la jubilación, cuenta todo.

sin computar

— Without counting or including in the calculation.

El precio es sin computar el IVA.

fácil de computar

— Something that is simple to calculate or process.

Es un sistema muy fácil de computar.

difícil de computar

— Something complex that requires effort to calculate.

El riesgo es difícil de computar.

computar por días

— To calculate based on a daily rate or count.

El alquiler se debe computar por días.

computar en el total

— To include something in the final sum.

Debes computar las propinas en el total.

error al computar

— A mistake made during the calculation process.

Hubo un error al computar los votos.

capacidad para computar

— The power or ability to process information.

Tiene una gran capacidad para computar datos.

orden de computar

— An official instruction to begin a calculation.

Dieron la orden de computar los daños.

método para computar

— The specific way or formula used for calculation.

Usamos un nuevo método para computar el riesgo.

자주 혼동되는 단어

computar vs computadora

Computadora is the machine (noun), computar is the action (verb).

computar vs conmutar

Conmutar means to exchange or commute (like a sentence), while computar means to count.

computar vs contar

Contar is general counting; computar is formal/technical calculation.

관용어 및 표현

"no computar"

— In a technical sense, when something fails to be processed. Colloquially (though rare), used to say someone doesn't understand.

Ese argumento no computa en mi cabeza.

Informal/Slang
"computar a favor de"

— To count something as a benefit for someone.

Su experiencia computa a favor de su ascenso.

Formal
"computar en contra de"

— To count something as a disadvantage or penalty.

Las faltas computan en contra de tu nota final.

Formal
"computar por entero"

— To count something completely, without fractions.

Los meses se deben computar por entero.

Legal
"computar de oficio"

— When an authority calculates something automatically without being asked.

El juez computó la rebaja de oficio.

Legal
"cómputo silente"

— A calculation that happens in the background without notice.

El sistema realiza un cómputo silente de errores.

Technical
"computar por horas"

— The standard way of billing or measuring work.

Prefiero computar mi trabajo por horas.

Neutral
"computar lo incomputable"

— To try to measure something that is impossible to quantify.

Intentar computar el amor es imposible.

Literary
"computar hasta el último céntimo"

— To calculate with extreme precision down to the last cent.

Computaron la deuda hasta el último céntimo.

Neutral
"computar el éxito"

— To measure the level of achievement of something.

Es difícil computar el éxito de esta obra.

Neutral

혼동하기 쉬운

computar vs Calcular

Both involve math.

Calcular is general and can be an estimate; computar is formal and systematic.

Calculo que llegaremos en una hora, pero el GPS debe computar la ruta exacta.

computar vs Contar

Both mean 'to count'.

Contar is for basic objects or people; computar is for data or official tallies.

Cuenta las manzanas; yo voy a computar el precio total en la caja.

computar vs Procesar

Used in computer contexts.

Procesar is the whole operation; computar is the specific mathematical calculation.

El procesador está procesando el vídeo y computando los colores.

computar vs Tasas

Related to money.

Tasar is to value an object; computar is to calculate a total amount.

Vamos a tasar la joya y luego computar el impuesto de venta.

computar vs Contabilizar

Used in business.

Contabilizar is to record in books; computar is to calculate the value.

Primero computamos el beneficio y luego lo contabilizamos.

문장 패턴

A1

Yo + computar + [número]

Yo computo los números.

A2

El sistema + computar + [objeto]

El sistema computa los datos.

B1

Se + computar + [plazo]

Se computa el plazo mañana.

B2

Es necesario + computar + [variable]

Es necesario computar el IVA.

C1

A efectos de + [nombre] + se computará + [objeto]

A efectos de jubilación se computará la antigüedad.

C2

La capacidad de + computar + [abstracción]

La capacidad de computar estados cuánticos es fascinante.

Mixed

Sin + computar + [objeto]

Llegó tarde sin computar el tráfico.

Mixed

Tardar en + computar

Tarda mucho en computar la respuesta.

어휘 가족

명사

computación
computadora
computador
cómputo
computabilidad

동사

computar

형용사

computable
computacional
computado
computador

관련

cuenta
cálculo
algoritmo
informática
procesamiento

사용법

frequency

Common in professional, legal, and news media contexts; rare in casual daily speech.

자주 하는 실수
  • Using 'computar' to mean 'working on a computer'. Usar la computadora / Trabajar con el ordenador.

    Computar is the calculation process, not the act of using the device.

  • Saying 'computar una historia'. Contar una historia.

    'Contar' means both 'to count' and 'to tell', but 'computar' only means 'to calculate'.

  • Forgetting the 'ar' stress. Com-pu-TAR.

    Misplacing the stress can make the word sound like the noun 'computador'.

  • Using 'computar' for simple estimates. Calcular / Estimar.

    'Computar' implies a precise, official, or systematic tally.

  • Adding a preposition like 'computar de'. Computar [algo].

    It is a transitive verb and does not need a preposition for its object.

Legal Precision

When dealing with Spanish bureaucracy, always use 'computar' when discussing how many days you have left for a procedure.

Tech Talk

Use 'computar' when discussing algorithms or high-speed data processing to sound like a pro.

Passive Voice

Remember that 'se computan' is a very common way to describe how things are counted without naming a person.

Formal Writing

Replace 'hacer los cálculos' with 'computar los datos' in your business reports for a more professional tone.

Election Night

Watch the news during elections; it's the best time to hear 'computar' used repeatedly in a real-world context.

The Rule Link

Always link 'computar' to a 'rule' or 'system' in your mind. No rule? Use 'contar'.

Computar vs Contar

If you can say 'tell a story', use 'contar'. You can never 'computar' a story.

Stress the End

Make sure to emphasize the 'TAR' at the end to distinguish the verb from the noun 'computador'.

Context Clues

If you hear 'plazo' or 'votos', the verb 'computar' is almost certainly nearby.

C2 Nuance

Explore the difference between 'días hábiles' and 'días naturales' when learning how to 'computar plazos'.

암기하기

기억법

Think of a 'Computer' doing 'Math'. Com-pu-tar. It's what the computer does to the data.

시각적 연상

Imagine a judge with a giant calculator counting days on a calendar. He is 'computando' the sentence.

Word Web

Datos Votos Plazos Calculadora Sistema Número Contar Oficial

챌린지

Try to use 'computar' in three different contexts today: one about time, one about technology, and one about money.

어원

From the Latin verb 'computāre', which is a compound of 'com-' (together) and 'putāre' (to settle, prune, or reckon).

원래 의미: Originally meant 'to settle an account' or 'to count together'.

Romance language, derived from Indo-European roots.

문화적 맥락

No specific sensitivities, but be aware that in legal contexts, 'computar' can be a very sensitive topic regarding prison time or financial debts.

English speakers often use 'calculate' for everything. In Spanish, using 'computar' makes you sound more authoritative in formal settings.

Used in the Spanish Constitution regarding the counting of votes. Common in the 'Código Civil' for time limits. Frequently used in Spanish translations of Isaac Asimov's robot stories.

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

Elections

  • votos computados
  • mesas por computar
  • computar las actas
  • sistema de cómputo

Legal/Law

  • computar el plazo
  • computar la pena
  • computar la prescripción
  • días que no computan

Technology

  • computar datos
  • capacidad de computar
  • computar en la nube
  • tiempo para computar

Human Resources

  • computar antigüedad
  • computar horas extra
  • computar vacaciones
  • computar beneficios

Finance

  • computar intereses
  • computar el IVA
  • computar gastos
  • computar activos

대화 시작하기

"¿Cómo se suelen computar las horas extra en tu país?"

"¿Crees que las máquinas pueden computar mejor que los humanos?"

"¿Cuánto tiempo tarda el sistema en computar los votos en una elección?"

"¿Es difícil computar los impuestos en tu ciudad?"

"¿Te gustaría aprender a computar datos masivos con programación?"

일기 주제

Escribe sobre un momento en el que un error al computar algo te causó problemas.

Describe cómo se deben computar los días de vacaciones ideales para un trabajador.

Imagina una máquina que puede computar el futuro; ¿qué le preguntarías?

Explica el proceso de computar los gastos mensuales en tu hogar.

Reflexiona sobre si es posible computar la felicidad de una persona con números.

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

Usually no. Use 'contar' for people. 'Computar' is for data or official records. You might 'computar' the number of attendees in a formal report, but you 'cuentas' your friends at a party.

Yes, it is a standard Spanish word used globally, especially in legal and technical fields.

No. That is 'usar la computadora'. 'Computar' is the internal action of calculating data.

'Cómputo' is the result or act of counting (the tally), while 'computación' is the field of computer science.

It is understood but sounds like a translation from English. It's better to say 'No tiene sentido' or 'No me cuadra'.

Yes, it's very common for calculating legal deadlines or years of service for a pension.

It's regular: computé, computaste, computó, computamos, computasteis, computaron.

In daily life, no. In news, work, and law, yes, it is very common.

It is a vote that has been officially counted and added to the election total.

Yes, it is used for calculating variables, processing experimental data, and mathematical modeling.

셀프 테스트 200 질문

writing

Escribe una frase usando 'computar' en el contexto de una oficina.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Explica la diferencia entre 'contar' y 'computar' en español.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Crea una oración sobre las elecciones usando 'votos computados'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

¿Cómo se computan los días de vacaciones en tu trabajo ideal? Escribe 3 frases.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Escribe un pequeño párrafo sobre lo que hace una computadora usando el verbo 'computar'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Imagina que eres un juez. Escribe una orden para computar la pena de un prisionero.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Usa 'computar' para hablar sobre el presupuesto de un viaje.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Describe un proceso técnico donde sea necesario computar datos masivos.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Escribe una pregunta para un colega sobre cómo computar las horas extra.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Traduce: 'The system needs to compute the final results.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Escribe una frase usando 'sin computar'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Usa 'computar' en una frase con el tiempo verbal futuro.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Explica por qué es importante computar los riesgos en una inversión.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Crea una frase usando 'capacidad de computar'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Escribe una oración negativa con 'computar'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Describe cómo un robot computa su camino en una habitación.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Escribe una frase usando 'computar' y 'antigüedad'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Usa el verbo 'computar' en una oración con 'se' pasivo.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Escribe un breve diálogo entre dos programadores usando 'computar'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Crea una frase sobre el cómputo de los intereses bancarios.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Pronuncia la palabra 'computar' enfatizando la última sílaba.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Explica en voz alta cómo se computan los puntos en tu deporte favorito.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Describe la función de una CPU usando el verbo 'computar'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Imagina que hablas con un abogado. Pregúntale cómo se computan los plazos de tu caso.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Cuenta del 1 al 10 y luego di: 'He terminado de computar los números'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Habla sobre la importancia de computar los votos correctamente en una democracia.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Di en voz alta: 'El sistema no puede computar los datos en este momento'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Explica por qué una empresa necesita computar su inventario cada mes.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Usa 'computar' en una frase sobre el tiempo que pasas estudiando español.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Describe un error que cometiste al computar algo importante.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Pregunta a alguien: '¿Cómo computas tú tus gastos mensuales?'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Di una frase usando 'computar' y 'tecnología'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Explica el concepto de 'antigüedad computada' a un nuevo empleado.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Habla sobre la capacidad de computar de las nuevas inteligencias artificiales.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Di: 'Espero que me computen las horas extra este mes'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Usa 'computar' para hablar de los resultados de una encuesta.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Explica la diferencia entre 'computar' y 'contar' a un amigo.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Di: 'El servidor está computando la información'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Habla sobre un sistema que use el cómputo de tiempo para funcionar.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Usa 'computar' en una frase sobre el clima.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Escucha y escribe: 'El sistema computa los datos rápidamente.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Escucha y escribe: 'No se computan los días festivos.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Escucha y escribe: 'Faltan muchos votos por computar.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Escucha y escribe: 'Debemos computar el presupuesto final hoy.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Escucha y escribe: 'El juez va a computar la pena del reo.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Escucha y escribe: 'La computadora tarda en computar.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Escucha y escribe: '¿Cómo computan los puntos en la liga?'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Escucha y escribe: 'Se han computado todos los resultados.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Escucha y escribe: 'Es necesario computar cada variable.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Escucha y escribe: 'El algoritmo computa el riesgo.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Escucha y escribe: 'Sin computar el IVA, el precio es bajo.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Escucha y escribe: 'La capacidad de computar es clave.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Escucha y escribe: 'Ellos están computando la antigüedad.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Escucha y escribe: 'Mañana empezaremos a computar los plazos.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Escucha y escribe: 'Hubo un error al computar el total.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
error correction

El sistema computar los datos hoy.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답: El sistema computa los datos hoy.
error correction

No se computando los fines de semana.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답: No se computan los fines de semana.
error correction

Yo computo una historia a mi hijo.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답: Yo cuento una historia a mi hijo.
error correction

El juez va a computado la pena.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답: El juez va a computar la pena.
error correction

Tenemos que computar de los gastos.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답: Tenemos que computar los gastos.
error correction

La computadora es muy buena para computo.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답: La computadora es muy buena para computar.
error correction

Los votos ya están computar.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답: Los votos ya están computados.
error correction

Es difícil de computando el riesgo.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답: Es difícil de computar el riesgo.
error correction

El algoritmo computas los resultados.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답: El algoritmo computa los resultados.
error correction

Ayer computamos de la antigüedad.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답: Ayer computamos la antigüedad.

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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