At the A1 level, learners focus on the most basic use of 'doctor' and 'doctora'. You learn that 'doctor' refers to a medical professional you see when you are sick. You learn to identify the word in simple sentences like 'Yo voy al doctor' (I go to the doctor) or 'El doctor es simpático' (The doctor is nice). At this stage, the main goal is recognizing the word as a cognate of the English word 'doctor' and understanding that it changes to 'doctora' for a woman. You also learn basic vocabulary related to health, such as 'hospital', 'enfermo' (sick), and 'medicina'. The focus is on simple survival Spanish: being able to say you need a doctor or asking where the doctor is located. Grammar is kept simple, usually involving the verb 'ser' (to be) or 'ir' (to go). You begin to notice that 'el' and 'la' are important, but you might still make mistakes with the 'personal a' when saying 'veo al doctor'.
By the A2 level, you start to use 'doctor/a' in more varied contexts and with slightly more complex grammar. You learn the difference between talking *to* a doctor ('Hola, doctor') and talking *about* a doctor ('El doctor no está'). You begin to use the word with verbs like 'recetar' (to prescribe) and 'examinar' (to examine). You understand that 'doctor' is a title of respect and is used more frequently than the English word 'physician'. You also start to encounter the word in the context of a 'cita médica' (medical appointment). At this level, you should be comfortable with gender agreement and basic pluralization ('los doctores'). You might also learn that 'médico' is a common alternative, especially in textbooks. You can describe a visit to the doctor in the past tense, using the preterite or imperfect, such as 'Fui al doctor ayer because me dolía la cabeza'.
At the B1 level, your understanding of 'doctor/a' expands to include academic and formal contexts. You realize that not every 'doctor' works in a hospital; some are professors at a university with a PhD. You begin to use the word in more complex sentence structures, including the subjunctive mood, such as 'Espero que el doctor me dé una buena noticia' (I hope the doctor gives me good news). You also learn more specific types of doctors, like 'cirujano' (surgeon) or 'pediatra' (pediatrician), and how 'doctor' acts as a general title for all of them. You start to notice regional differences, such as how 'doctor' is used as a courtesy title for lawyers in some Latin American countries. Your vocabulary grows to include 'diagnóstico' (diagnosis), 'tratamiento' (treatment), and 'consulta' (consultation/office).
At the B2 level, you are expected to use 'doctor/a' with high precision in both formal and informal registers. You understand the nuances of social hierarchy and how using the title 'doctor' can establish professional distance. you can participate in discussions about healthcare systems or academic research where the term 'doctor' appears frequently. You are comfortable with complex grammar involving the word, such as 'Si hubiera visto al doctor antes, no estaría tan enfermo' (If I had seen the doctor earlier, I wouldn't be so sick). You also learn idiomatic expressions and more technical synonyms like 'facultativo'. You can read medical news or academic abstracts where 'doctor' refers to the lead researcher. Your ability to distinguish between the medical and academic 'doctor' becomes seamless based on the surrounding context.
At the C1 level, you have a deep appreciation for the historical and etymological roots of the word 'doctor'. You understand its Latin origin meaning 'teacher' and how this has evolved into the modern title of prestige. You can use the word in sophisticated academic writing, correctly applying titles and degrees. You are aware of the subtle sociolinguistic implications of addressing someone as 'doctor' versus 'médico' or 'don/doña'. You can handle complex debates about medical ethics or university policy where the roles and responsibilities of a 'doctor' are discussed. You understand the legal implications of the title and the requirements for obtaining a 'doctorado'. Your use of the word is indistinguishable from a native speaker, including the use of related terms like 'doctorando' (doctoral candidate) or 'tesis doctoral'.
At the C2 level, you possess a complete mastery of the word 'doctor' and its place within the vast landscape of the Spanish language. You can interpret the word in literature, historical documents, and high-level academic discourse with ease. You understand the most obscure uses of the word and its derivatives. You can analyze the cultural significance of the 'doctor' figure in Spanish literature, from the satirical portrayals in the Golden Age to contemporary depictions. You use the term with perfect grammatical and stylistic accuracy, effortlessly switching between medical, academic, and social meanings. You are also aware of the most technical and rare synonyms and can use them to vary your style in high-level writing. The word 'doctor' is no longer just a vocabulary item but a tool for nuanced expression in any professional or intellectual setting.

doctor/a 30초 만에

  • A professional qualified in medicine or holding a PhD.
  • Used as a title of respect in medical and academic settings.
  • Changes gender: 'doctor' (male) and 'doctora' (female).
  • Requires a definite article (el/la) when talking about them.

The term doctor or doctora in Spanish is a fascinating word that bridges the gap between everyday medical care and the highest levels of academic achievement. While most English speakers immediately think of a person in a white coat with a stethoscope, the Spanish usage carries deep historical weight and social nuance that varies significantly across the Spanish-speaking world. At its core, it refers to a professional who has attained a doctoral degree, but in common parlance, it is the standard way to address or refer to a medical practitioner. Understanding when to use 'doctor' versus 'médico' is one of the first hurdles for a learner moving into the A2 and B1 levels of proficiency.

The Medical Professional
In nearly every Spanish-speaking country, if you are feeling ill and go to a hospital, you will ask for a doctor. Although the official job title is often médico, the title of address is almost always doctor. It is a mark of respect and a recognition of their expertise in the healing arts.

El doctor García me dijo que necesito descansar más para recuperarme de la gripe.

Academic Excellence
Outside of the hospital, the word retains its original Latin meaning: a teacher or one who has mastered a subject. A person with a PhD in Philosophy, History, or Science is a doctor. In academic settings, using this title is mandatory for formal correspondence and introductions.

La doctora Rodríguez presentó su tesis sobre la literatura del siglo de oro.

Social Hierarchy
Using the title 'doctor' is a way to maintain a professional distance and show deference. It is much more formal than using a first name and is the standard in any professional environment where credentials matter.

Disculpe, doctor, ¿podría explicarme los resultados del examen de sangre?

Mi hermana es doctora y trabaja en el departamento de emergencias.

El doctor me recomendó que dejara de comer tanta sal para bajar mi presión.

Using 'doctor' or 'doctora' correctly in a sentence requires an understanding of Spanish gender agreement and the use of articles. Because Spanish is a gendered language, you must choose the form that matches the person you are describing. If the doctor is male, use el doctor; if the doctor is female, use la doctora. This distinction is vital for grammatical accuracy and shows respect for the individual's identity. Furthermore, when you are talking *about* a doctor using their title, you must include the definite article (el/la), but when you are talking *to* the doctor directly, you omit the article.

The Definite Article Rule
In Spanish, when referring to someone by their title in the third person, you always use 'el' or 'la'. For example, 'The doctor is here' becomes 'El doctor está aquí'. This differs from English, where we simply say 'Doctor Smith is here'.

Mañana tengo una cita con la doctora Martínez a las diez de la mañana.

Direct Address
When you are speaking directly to a doctor, you drop the article. This is similar to how you would say 'Doctor, I have a headache' in English. In Spanish, it would be 'Doctor, tengo dolor de cabeza'.

¿Qué opina usted, doctor, sobre este nuevo tratamiento para la diabetes?

Llamamos al doctor porque el niño tenía mucha fiebre durante la noche.

Pluralization
To make the word plural, add '-es' to the masculine form (doctores) or '-as' to the feminine form (doctoras). If you are referring to a mixed group of male and female doctors, use the masculine plural 'los doctores'.

Los doctores de este hospital son muy profesionales y amables con los pacientes.

Ella quiere ser doctora para poder ayudar a las personas de su comunidad.

The word 'doctor' is ubiquitous in Spanish culture, appearing in everything from high-stakes medical dramas on television to the quiet corridors of a local 'centro de salud'. In a hospital or clinic, you will hear it constantly. Nurses will use it to refer to the attending physicians, and patients will use it as a respectful way to get a professional's attention. However, its reach extends far beyond the medical field. In the world of academia, 'doctor' is the standard title for professors and researchers. When you attend a university lecture or a scientific conference, you will hear it used to introduce speakers and acknowledge their contributions to their respective fields.

Hospital Settings
In a Spanish hospital, the hierarchy is often clearly defined by titles. You might hear: 'El doctor está en cirugía' or 'La doctora revisará sus signos vitales en un momento'.

El doctor de turno me atendió rápidamente cuando llegué a urgencias.

Academic Environments
At a university graduation or a formal symposium, the title 'doctor' is used to signify that someone has completed their 'doctorado' (PhD). It is a title that implies authority and deep knowledge.

Fue un honor escuchar la conferencia del doctor sobre física cuántica.

La doctora en leyes explicó los detalles del nuevo contrato legal.

¿Sabe usted si el doctor ya terminó de pasar consulta con los otros pacientes?

Ayer vi al doctor en el supermercado y me saludó muy cordialmente.

Even though 'doctor' is a cognate, there are several traps that English speakers often fall into when using it in Spanish. The most common error involves the misuse of articles and the confusion between the profession and the title. In English, we treat 'Doctor' almost like a first name in many contexts, but Spanish has stricter rules about when the article is required. Another frequent mistake is neglecting the feminine form 'doctora'. In modern Spanish, it is essential to use the correct gender, as using 'el doctor' for a woman can sometimes be perceived as old-fashioned or even slightly disrespectful in progressive circles.

Forgetting the Article
English speakers often say 'Doctor García es bueno' instead of the correct 'El doctor García es bueno'. Remember: if you are talking about them, the article is your friend.

Incorrecto: Doctor Martínez me ayudó mucho. Correcto: El doctor Martínez me ayudó mucho.

Gender Mismatch
Don't assume 'doctor' is neutral. If the person is female, you must use 'la doctora'. This applies to both the article and the ending of the word.

Ella es una doctora excelente, no digas 'Ella es un doctor'.

Muchos estudiantes quieren ser doctores sin entender el sacrificio que requiere la carrera.

Le pregunté al doctor si podía viajar en avión con mi pierna rota.

La doctora que me atendió ayer era muy joven pero muy experimentada.

While 'doctor' is the most common term you will use, the Spanish language offers a rich palette of synonyms and related terms that can add precision to your speech. Depending on the context—whether you are in a sterile hospital room, a university office, or a court of law—choosing the right alternative can make you sound more like a native speaker. The most direct alternative is 'médico', which is the technical and professional term for a medical doctor. In more formal or literary contexts, you might encounter 'facultativo' or 'galeno'. Understanding these nuances is key to mastering Spanish vocabulary at a higher level.

Médico vs. Doctor
'Médico' refers to the profession itself. 'Doctor' is the title. You go to the 'médico' (the place/the professional), but you speak to the 'doctor'.

El médico de cabecera es el que conoce todo tu historial de salud.

Especialista
If a doctor focuses on a specific part of the body, such as the heart (cardiólogo) or skin (dermatólogo), they are called an 'especialista'.

Mi doctor me remitió a un especialista para tratar mis problemas de espalda.

El prestigioso galeno recibió un premio por sus investigaciones en oncología.

El facultativo de guardia firmó el alta del paciente esta mañana.

Necesito un cirujano para que opere mi rodilla después del accidente.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The use of 'doctor' for medical professionals didn't become common until the 18th century. Before that, they were mostly called 'physicians' or 'healers'.

발음 가이드

UK /ˈdɒktə/
US /ˈdɑːktər/
In Spanish, the stress is on the last syllable: doc-TOR.
라임이 맞는 단어
Amor Calor Color Dolor Favor Olor Sabor Valor
자주 하는 실수
  • Stressing the first syllable like in English.
  • Pronouncing the 'r' too softly; it should be a single tap.
  • Forgetting to pronounce the 'a' at the end of 'doctora'.
  • Using the English vowel sounds instead of the pure Spanish 'o'.
  • Not linking the 'r' to the next vowel sound in a sentence.

난이도

독해 1/5

Easy to recognize because it is a cognate.

쓰기 2/5

Requires attention to gender and articles.

말하기 2/5

Stress on the last syllable is often tricky for English speakers.

듣기 1/5

Very clear and easy to pick out in conversation.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

médico hospital enfermo ayuda persona

다음에 배울 것

enfermera receta dolor pastilla examen

고급

diagnóstico pronóstico quirófano anestesia patología

알아야 할 문법

Gender of Nouns

Doctor (m) vs Doctora (f)

Definite Articles with Titles

El doctor García (The doctor García)

Personal 'a'

Visito a la doctora (I visit the doctor)

Pluralization of Nouns ending in Consonants

Doctor + es = Doctores

Stress and Accents

Doctor (stress on 'tor')

수준별 예문

1

El doctor es muy bueno.

The doctor is very good.

Simple subject + verb 'ser' + adjective.

2

La doctora está en el hospital.

The doctor (female) is in the hospital.

Use of 'está' for location.

3

Yo voy al doctor hoy.

I am going to the doctor today.

Contraction 'al' (a + el).

4

Necesito un doctor.

I need a doctor.

Verb 'necesitar' + indefinite article.

5

¿Dónde está el doctor?

Where is the doctor?

Interrogative sentence.

6

El doctor tiene la medicina.

The doctor has the medicine.

Verb 'tener' for possession.

7

Mi mamá es doctora.

My mom is a doctor.

Possessive adjective 'mi'.

8

Gracias, doctor.

Thank you, doctor.

Direct address (no article).

1

El doctor me recetó unas pastillas para la tos.

The doctor prescribed me some pills for the cough.

Preterite tense of 'recetar'.

2

Mañana tengo una cita con la doctora Martínez.

Tomorrow I have an appointment with Doctor Martínez.

Using 'con la' before a title.

3

Los doctores trabajan muchas horas en este hospital.

The doctors work many hours in this hospital.

Plural form 'doctores'.

4

Fuimos a ver al doctor ayer por la tarde.

We went to see the doctor yesterday afternoon.

Personal 'a' + article 'el' = 'al'.

5

La doctora me examinó la garganta.

The doctor examined my throat.

Indirect object pronoun 'me'.

6

¿Es usted el doctor de guardia?

Are you the doctor on duty?

Formal address 'usted'.

7

El doctor dice que debo comer más verduras.

The doctor says that I should eat more vegetables.

Reporting speech with 'dice que'.

8

Ella estudia mucho para ser doctora algún día.

She studies a lot to be a doctor someday.

Infinitive 'ser' after 'para'.

1

Espero que el doctor llegue pronto a la consulta.

I hope the doctor arrives soon to the office.

Subjunctive 'llegue' after 'espero que'.

2

El doctor me aconsejó que hiciera más ejercicio.

The doctor advised me to do more exercise.

Imperfect subjunctive 'hiciera' after advice.

3

Si te sientes mal, deberías llamar a la doctora.

If you feel bad, you should call the doctor.

Conditional 'deberías'.

4

El doctor que me operó es un gran especialista.

The doctor who operated on me is a great specialist.

Relative clause with 'que'.

5

No creo que el doctor tenga los resultados todavía.

I don't think the doctor has the results yet.

Subjunctive 'tenga' after 'no creo que'.

6

La doctora nos explicó el tratamiento detalladamente.

The doctor explained the treatment to us in detail.

Preterite with indirect object 'nos'.

7

Cuando sea mayor, quiero ser doctor en biología.

When I grow up, I want to be a doctor in biology.

Subjunctive 'sea' after 'cuando' for future.

8

El doctor se lavó las manos antes de la cirugía.

The doctor washed his hands before the surgery.

Reflexive verb 'lavarse'.

1

El doctor ha publicado varios artículos en revistas científicas.

The doctor has published several articles in scientific journals.

Present perfect 'ha publicado'.

2

A pesar de ser joven, la doctora tiene mucha experiencia.

Despite being young, the doctor has a lot of experience.

Concession clause 'a pesar de'.

3

El doctor recomendó un cambio radical en mi estilo de vida.

The doctor recommended a radical change in my lifestyle.

Noun phrase 'cambio radical'.

4

Me pregunto si el doctor podrá atenderme sin cita previa.

I wonder if the doctor will be able to see me without a prior appointment.

Future tense 'podrá'.

5

La doctora se especializa en enfermedades raras del corazón.

The doctor specializes in rare heart diseases.

Reflexive 'se especializa'.

6

El doctor fue galardonado por su labor humanitaria en África.

The doctor was awarded for his humanitarian work in Africa.

Passive voice 'fue galardonado'.

7

Es fundamental que el doctor escuche con atención al paciente.

It is fundamental that the doctor listens carefully to the patient.

Impersonal expression + subjunctive.

8

El doctor se mostró muy optimista tras la operación.

The doctor was very optimistic after the operation.

Verb 'mostrarse' for appearance/attitude.

1

El doctorado requiere una investigación exhaustiva y original.

The doctorate requires exhaustive and original research.

Noun 'doctorado' related to 'doctor'.

2

La doctora cuestionó la validez del estudio clínico previo.

The doctor questioned the validity of the previous clinical study.

Advanced vocabulary 'cuestionó', 'validez'.

3

El doctor, cuya fama le precede, dictará una conferencia magistral.

The doctor, whose fame precedes him, will give a keynote lecture.

Relative pronoun 'cuya'.

4

Incluso para un doctor experimentado, este caso es un desafío.

Even for an experienced doctor, this case is a challenge.

Adverb 'incluso' for emphasis.

5

La doctora aboga por un enfoque más holístico de la medicina.

The doctor advocates for a more holistic approach to medicine.

Verb 'abogar' (to advocate).

6

El doctor se remitió a las pruebas empíricas para su diagnóstico.

The doctor referred to empirical evidence for his diagnosis.

Reflexive 'remitirse a'.

7

Tras años de estudio, finalmente obtuvo el título de doctora.

After years of study, she finally obtained the title of doctor.

Verb 'obtener' (to obtain).

8

El doctor se desvive por sus pacientes, trabajando día y noche.

The doctor goes out of his way for his patients, working day and night.

Idiom 'desvivirse por'.

1

La praxis del doctor fue sometida a un riguroso escrutinio ético.

The doctor's practice was subjected to rigorous ethical scrutiny.

Technical term 'praxis'.

2

El doctor es un referente ineludible en el campo de la neurología.

The doctor is an unavoidable reference in the field of neurology.

Sophisticated adjectives 'referente', 'ineludible'.

3

La doctora desglosó pormenorizadamente las implicaciones del genoma.

The doctor broke down in detail the implications of the genome.

Adverb 'pormenorizadamente'.

4

El prestigio del doctor se ha forjado a través de décadas de rigor.

The doctor's prestige has been forged through decades of rigor.

Metaphorical use of 'forjado'.

5

La doctora disertó sobre la intersección entre ética y tecnología.

The doctor lectured on the intersection between ethics and technology.

Verb 'disertar' (to lecture/discourse).

6

El doctor ostenta la cátedra de medicina interna en la universidad.

The doctor holds the chair of internal medicine at the university.

Verb 'ostentar' (to hold/display).

7

La doctora es reacia a prescribir antibióticos sin una causa clara.

The doctor is reluctant to prescribe antibiotics without a clear cause.

Adjective 'reacia' (reluctant).

8

El doctor se granjeó el respeto de sus colegas por su integridad.

The doctor earned the respect of his colleagues for his integrity.

Verb 'granjearse' (to earn/win).

동의어

médico/a facultativo/a galeno/a especialista clínico/a sanitario/a cirujano/a terapeuta

반의어

paciente enfermo/a lego/a charlatán/a

자주 쓰는 조합

doctor de cabecera
cita con el doctor
llamar al doctor
título de doctor
doctor honoris causa
consultar al doctor
doctor en leyes
visita al doctor
orden del doctor
doctor de guardia

자주 쓰는 구문

Ir al doctor

— To go to the doctor's office for a checkup or illness.

Mañana voy al doctor.

Pedir cita con el doctor

— To make an appointment with the doctor.

Llamé para pedir cita con el doctor.

Ver al doctor

— To see or visit the doctor.

Necesito ver al doctor pronto.

El doctor dice que...

— A common way to report medical advice.

El doctor dice que debo descansar.

Hacerse el doctor

— To act as if one knows more than they do, specifically about medicine.

No te hagas el doctor, tú no sabes qué tengo.

Doctor, ¿qué tengo?

— A standard question asked by patients to their doctor.

Dígame, doctor, ¿qué tengo?

Ser doctor en...

— To hold a PhD in a specific subject.

Ella es doctora en química.

Gracias a Dios y al doctor

— A phrase expressing gratitude after a recovery.

Ya estoy bien, gracias a Dios y al doctor.

El doctor me dio el alta

— The doctor discharged me or cleared me to work.

El doctor me dio el alta hoy.

Consultorio del doctor

— The doctor's office or consulting room.

Estamos en el consultorio del doctor.

자주 혼동되는 단어

doctor/a vs Médico

Often used interchangeably, but 'médico' is the profession while 'doctor' is the title.

doctor/a vs Doctorado

This is the degree itself (the doctorate), not the person.

doctor/a vs Doctrina

Means 'doctrine' or 'teaching', not a medical professional.

관용어 및 표현

"Doctor tiene la iglesia"

— Used to say that complex matters should be left to those who are experts or authorities.

No sé cómo resolver este dilema teológico, doctor tiene la iglesia.

Old-fashioned
"Ser el doctor de alguien"

— To be the person someone always goes to for advice.

Mi abuelo es el doctor de la familia para todo.

Informal
"Doctorado en la calle"

— To have a 'PhD in the streets', meaning to be very street-smart.

Él no fue a la escuela, pero tiene un doctorado en la calle.

Slang
"Ni el doctor lo salva"

— Used when a situation is beyond repair or someone is in serious trouble.

Si el jefe se entera, ni el doctor lo salva.

Informal
"Hacer un doctorado"

— To go through a very long and difficult process.

Comprar esa casa fue como hacer un doctorado.

Metaphorical
"Doctor de pacotilla"

— A fake or very bad doctor.

Ese es un doctor de pacotilla, no sabe nada.

Informal/Insulting
"Con el doctor y el abogado, la verdad"

— A proverb suggesting you should always tell the truth to your doctor and lawyer.

Recuerda, con el doctor y el abogado, la verdad siempre.

Proverb
"Ser un doctor en la materia"

— To be an absolute expert in a specific topic.

Ella es una doctora en la materia de impuestos.

Neutral
"Llamar al doctor antes de que duela"

— To take preventive measures before a problem arises.

Es mejor llamar al doctor antes de que duela.

Metaphorical
"Doctor honoris causa"

— An honorary title given by a university.

El escritor fue nombrado doctor honoris causa.

Formal

혼동하기 쉬운

doctor/a vs Médico

Both refer to doctors.

'Médico' is the job; 'Doctor' is the title you use to address them.

El médico me atendió, pero le dije: 'Gracias, doctor'.

doctor/a vs Enfermero

Both work in hospitals.

A doctor has a medical degree; an enfermero (nurse) assists the doctor.

El enfermero tomó mi presión antes de que llegara el doctor.

doctor/a vs Cirujano

They are a type of doctor.

A cirujano specifically performs surgery.

El doctor me mandó al cirujano.

doctor/a vs Farmacéutico

They provide medicine.

The doctor prescribes medicine; the farmacéutico sells it.

Llevé la receta del doctor al farmacéutico.

doctor/a vs Científico

Many scientists are doctors (PhDs).

A científico does research; a medical doctor treats patients.

El doctor es un científico que estudia el cáncer.

문장 패턴

A1

El doctor es + [adjective]

El doctor es amable.

A1

Yo voy al + [doctor]

Yo voy al doctor.

A2

Tengo una cita con el + [doctor]

Tengo una cita con el doctor.

A2

El doctor me + [verb]

El doctor me ayudó.

B1

Quiero que el doctor + [subjunctive]

Quiero que el doctor me vea.

B2

A pesar de ser + [doctor]

A pesar de ser doctor, no sabe qué tengo.

C1

El doctor, cuya + [noun]

El doctor, cuya clínica es famosa.

C2

La praxis del + [doctor]

La praxis del doctor es impecable.

어휘 가족

명사

doctorado (doctorate)
doctoramiento (the act of becoming a doctor)
doctrina (doctrine)
doctorando (doctoral candidate)

동사

doctorar (to grant a doctorate)
doctorarse (to receive a doctorate)

형용사

doctoral (doctoral/relating to a doctor)
docto (learned/erudite)

관련

medicina
hospital
salud
clínica
paciente

사용법

frequency

Very high in both daily and professional speech.

자주 하는 실수
  • Doctor García es amable. El doctor García es amable.

    In Spanish, you must use the definite article when referring to someone by their title.

  • Ella es un doctor. Ella es doctora.

    You must use the feminine form 'doctora' for women, and you don't need 'una' for professions with 'ser'.

  • Voy a el doctor. Voy al doctor.

    Always contract 'a + el' into 'al'.

  • Hablé con doctor. Hablé con el doctor.

    The article is required after prepositions when referring to the professional.

  • Mi hermana es médico. Mi hermana es médica.

    While 'médico' was once used for both, 'médica' is the correct feminine form in modern Spanish.

Article Usage

Always use 'el' or 'la' when talking about a doctor in the third person. Example: 'El doctor está aquí'.

Stress the End

The stress falls on the last syllable: doc-TOR. Avoid the English tendency to stress the first syllable.

Regional Use

In Spain, 'médico' is more common for the job. In Latin America, 'doctor' is the standard for both the job and the title.

Be Inclusive

Always use 'doctora' for female doctors. Using 'doctor' for a woman can sound outdated.

PhD Title

Remember that 'doctor' also applies to university professors with a PhD.

Formal Address

Use 'Usted' when speaking to a doctor to maintain professional etiquette.

Abbreviations

Use 'Dr.' and 'Dra.' in formal writing, but spell them out in casual text.

Synonym Check

Learn 'especialista' and 'cirujano' to be more specific about the type of doctor.

Cognate Power

Use the fact that it's a cognate to build confidence, but don't forget the Spanish grammar rules.

Context Clues

If you hear 'doctor' in a university, assume it's a professor. In a hospital, it's a physician.

암기하기

기억법

Think of 'Doc' from the Seven Dwarfs. He is the leader and the 'teacher' of the group, which matches the Latin root 'docere' (to teach).

시각적 연상

Visualize a stethoscope shaped like the letter 'D' for Doctor. Imagine a female doctor wearing a hat shaped like an 'A' for Doctora.

Word Web

Hospital Medicina Cirugía Estudio Título Paciente Salud Receta

챌린지

Try to use 'doctor' and 'doctora' in five different sentences today, focusing on using the correct article (el/la).

어원

From the Latin 'doctor', meaning 'teacher' or 'instructor'. It is derived from the verb 'docere', which means 'to teach'.

원래 의미: A person who is authorized to teach a particular subject in a university.

Indo-European > Latin > Romance > Spanish.

문화적 맥락

Always use 'doctora' for a female professional to avoid being seen as dismissive or traditionalist.

In English, we often use 'Dr.' as a prefix, but in Spanish, 'Doctor' is used more often as a standalone noun of address.

Doctor Zhivago (translated into Spanish) Doctor House (popular TV show in Spain/LatAm) Doctor Strange (Marvel character)

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

At the Hospital

  • ¿Dónde está el doctor?
  • Necesito ver a la doctora.
  • El doctor está ocupado.
  • Hable con el doctor.

At the University

  • Es doctor en Historia.
  • La doctora dará la clase.
  • Mi tutor es doctor.
  • Quiero hacer un doctorado.

At a Pharmacy

  • El doctor me dio esta receta.
  • Tengo la orden del doctor.
  • La doctora recomendó esto.
  • ¿Llamó el doctor?

In a Courtroom

  • El doctor en leyes testificó.
  • Dígame, doctor.
  • La doctora analizó el caso.
  • El informe del doctor.

Social Gatherings

  • Le presento al doctor García.
  • Ella es doctora.
  • ¿A qué se dedica el doctor?
  • Es un placer, doctora.

대화 시작하기

"¿Has ido al doctor recientemente para un chequeo?"

"¿Prefieres ver a un doctor o a una doctora?"

"¿Qué le preguntarías a un doctor sobre tu salud?"

"¿Conoces a alguien que sea doctor en alguna materia académica?"

"¿Crees que es difícil ser doctor en tu país?"

일기 주제

Describe la última vez que fuiste al doctor y qué pasó.

Escribe sobre por qué crees que la profesión de doctor es importante.

Si fueras doctor, ¿en qué área te gustaría especializarte y por qué?

Imagina que eres un doctor en el año 2050. ¿Cómo sería tu trabajo?

Escribe una carta de agradecimiento a un doctor que te haya ayudado.

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

En términos estrictos, un médico es quien ejerce la medicina, mientras que un doctor es quien tiene un doctorado. Sin embargo, en el lenguaje coloquial, se usan como sinónimos para referirse a los profesionales de la salud. En España, es más común decir 'médico' para la profesión, mientras que en América se prefiere 'doctor'.

Depende del género de la persona. Si es hombre, usa 'el doctor'. Si es mujer, usa 'la doctora'. Es importante hacer esta distinción para ser gramaticalmente correcto y respetuoso.

Se usa 'al' porque es la contracción de la preposición 'a' y el artículo 'el'. En español, cuando el objeto directo de una oración es una persona específica, se debe usar la 'a' personal. Por ejemplo: 'Voy a ver a el doctor' se convierte en 'Voy a ver al doctor'.

Sí, en algunos países de Latinoamérica como Colombia, Argentina o Perú, es una costumbre social llamar 'doctor' a los abogados y otros profesionales de prestigio como muestra de respeto, aunque no tengan un título de doctorado académico.

La abreviatura de 'doctor' es 'Dr.' y la de 'doctora' es 'Dra.'. Siempre se escriben con la primera letra en mayúscula.

Es un título honorífico que una universidad otorga a personas eminentes que han destacado en ciertos campos, aunque no hayan realizado los estudios de doctorado tradicionales en esa institución.

Se dice 'Quiero ser doctor' (si eres hombre) o 'Quiero ser doctora' (si eres mujer). No es necesario usar el artículo 'un' o 'una' después del verbo 'ser' cuando se habla de profesiones.

Es un sustantivo común, pero cuando se usa como parte de un nombre propio (por ejemplo, 'el Doctor García'), funciona como un título.

Significa realizar los estudios e investigaciones necesarios para obtener el título académico de doctor (PhD).

No se usa el artículo cuando te diriges directamente a la persona. Por ejemplo: 'Hola, doctor, ¿cómo está?'. También se omite a veces en titulares de noticias o listas.

셀프 테스트 180 질문

writing

Write a sentence using 'el doctor' and 'hospital'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Ask a question to a female doctor.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Describe a doctor using two adjectives.

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writing

Write a sentence about going to the doctor.

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writing

Say that your mother is a doctor.

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writing

Write a sentence using the plural 'doctores'.

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writing

Explain why you are going to the doctor.

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writing

Use the subjunctive with 'doctor'.

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writing

Write a sentence about a 'doctor en biología'.

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writing

Use the word 'receta' in a sentence with 'doctor'.

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writing

Write a formal sentence about a doctor's achievement.

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writing

Use 'doctor de cabecera' in a sentence.

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writing

Describe a 'doctora' who is an expert in her field.

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writing

Write a sentence about a PhD thesis.

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writing

Compare 'doctor' and 'médico' in two sentences.

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writing

Use the word 'facultativo' in a sentence.

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writing

Write a sentence about a 'doctor honoris causa'.

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writing

Use 'praxis' and 'doctor' in a sentence.

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writing

Write a complex sentence about academic 'doctorado'.

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writing

Use 'referente ineludible' in a sentence about a doctor.

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정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'The doctor is very good.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'I need a doctor.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Where is the doctor?'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'My sister is a doctor.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'I have an appointment with the doctor.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'The doctor prescribed me medicine.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'I hope the doctor helps me.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'She is a doctor in history.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'The doctor is an expert in his field.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'The doctor's practice is ethical.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'El doctor viene a las cinco.' ¿A qué hora viene el doctor?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'La doctora Martínez no está.' ¿Quién no está?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Voy al doctor porque estoy enfermo.' ¿Por qué va al doctor?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Los doctores están en el hospital.' ¿Dónde están los doctores?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'El doctor me dio una receta.' ¿Qué le dio el doctor?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Necesito hablar con la doctora pronto.' ¿Con quién necesita hablar?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'El doctorado es muy difícil.' ¿Qué es difícil?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'La doctora es especialista en cardiología.' ¿Cuál es su especialidad?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'El facultativo firmó el informe.' ¿Qué firmó el facultativo?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'La praxis doctoral requiere rigor.' ¿Qué requiere la praxis?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write: 'I have a flu and I need a doctor.'

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정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write: 'The doctor (female) is very professional.'

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정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write: 'They are the best doctors in the city.'

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정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write: 'I am studying for my doctorate.'

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정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write: 'The doctor referred to the evidence.'

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/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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