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A2 noun 15 min read

médico/a

Examples médico/a in 30 Seconds
Explanation médico/a in your Level:
At the A1 level, learners are introduced to 'médico' as a basic vocabulary word for professions. The focus is on identifying who a 'médico' is and where they work. Learners should be able to say 'Yo soy médico' (I am a doctor) or 'Él es médico'. A key rule at this level is that we do not use the indefinite article 'un' when stating someone's profession in Spanish. You also learn that 'médico' works in a 'hospital' or 'clínica'. The gender distinction is introduced early: 'el médico' for men and 'la médica' for women. Phrases like 'Voy al médico' (I go to the doctor) are essential for basic survival Spanish. The pronunciation of the 'é' is emphasized to ensure the stress is correct from the beginning. Simple sentences like 'El médico es simpático' (The doctor is nice) help build confidence. Learners also learn to distinguish 'médico' from 'medicina' (the subject) at a very basic level.
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At the A2 level, the use of 'médico' expands into more practical, everyday scenarios. Learners are expected to handle a basic visit to the doctor. This includes understanding phrases like 'El médico me dio una receta' (The doctor gave me a prescription) or 'Tengo cita con el médico'. The word 'médico' is now used in conjunction with simple symptoms and body parts. For example, 'Me duele la cabeza, voy al médico'. Learners also start using 'médico' as an adjective, such as in 'seguro médico' (health insurance) or 'certificado médico'. The concept of the 'personal a' becomes important here: 'Voy a ver a la médica'. There is also a greater focus on the difference between 'médico' and 'doctor', with the understanding that 'doctor' is often used as a direct address. The plural forms 'médicos' and 'médicas' are used to talk about groups of professionals. Learners can now describe what a doctor does in simple terms: 'El médico cura a las personas'.
By the B1 level, learners can use 'médico' in more complex grammatical structures, such as the past tenses and the future. They can discuss medical history or future appointments using 'médico' as the subject. For instance, 'Cuando fui al médico, me dijo que necesitaba descansar'. The term 'médico de cabecera' (family doctor) is introduced, allowing for more specific conversations about healthcare. Learners can also use the word in the context of the healthcare system: 'El sistema médico en mi país es diferente'. Adjectival agreement becomes more consistent, such as in 'pruebas médicas' (medical tests). The word is also used in common idioms and phrases, like 'médico de guardia' (doctor on call). At this level, students can express opinions about medical care and understand more detailed instructions from a doctor, such as 'El médico recomendó que dejara de fumar'. They also start to recognize more formal synonyms like 'facultativo' in written texts.
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At the B2 level, 'médico' is used in sophisticated discussions regarding health policy, ethics, and specialized fields. Learners can talk about 'médicos especialistas' like 'cardiólogos' or 'neurólogos'. They understand the nuances of the word in different registries, from formal medical reports to casual conversation. They can use 'médico' in the subjunctive mood to express desires or doubts: 'Espero que el médico me dé buenas noticias'. The role of the 'médico forense' or 'médico militar' might be discussed in the context of news or literature. Learners are comfortable with complex collocations like 'negligencia médica' (medical malpractice) or 'ética médica'. They can also understand the historical and cultural significance of the 'médico' in Spanish-speaking societies. The distinction between 'médico' and 'sanitario' is clear, and they can use both appropriately. Writing tasks at this level might involve composing a formal letter to a 'médico' or a report on a 'reconocimiento médico'.
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The C1 level involves a high degree of precision and the ability to use 'médico' in academic and professional contexts. Learners can discuss the nuances of the 'juramento hipocrático' (Hippocratic Oath) or the history of medicine using terms like 'galeno'. They are proficient in using 'médico' as an adjective in highly specific phrases like 'criterio médico' (medical judgment) or 'secreto médico' (medical privilege/confidentiality). They can analyze the portrayal of 'médicos' in classical and contemporary Spanish literature. The use of 'médico' in legal and insurance contexts is mastered, including terms like 'perito médico' (medical expert witness). At this level, the learner can navigate complex medical systems in Spanish-speaking countries with ease, understanding the bureaucratic language associated with 'el cuerpo médico'. They can also debate the merits of different healthcare models using precise medical and economic vocabulary. Their pronunciation is near-native, including the subtle stress on the 'é'.
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At the C2 level, the learner has a complete and nuanced command of 'médico' and its entire semantic field. They can interpret and produce complex medical texts, from research papers to legal statutes. They understand the etymological roots of the word and its evolution in the Spanish language. They can use 'médico' in highly idiomatic or archaic ways if the context requires it. The learner is aware of regional variations in the use of 'médico' vs. 'doctor' across the entire Hispanophone world. They can discuss the philosophical implications of the 'médico-paciente' relationship and the evolution of medical technology. They are capable of following rapid, technical conversations between 'médicos' and can contribute to them using appropriate terminology. Their understanding of the word is not just linguistic but also deeply cultural, recognizing the 'médico' as a figure in folklore, history, and social change. They can identify and correct subtle errors in usage by others, demonstrating a mastery of the language's finest details.
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Examples

médico/a in 30 Seconds

  • The word 'médico' refers to a medical doctor or physician.
  • It is a masculine noun ('el médico'), while 'la médica' is the feminine form.
  • It is used formally as a job title and also as an adjective meaning 'medical'.
  • The stress is on the first syllable due to the written accent on the 'é'.
The Spanish word médico (masculine) or médica (feminine) refers to a professional who has earned a degree in medicine and is licensed to practice. While English speakers often use the word 'doctor' as a catch-all term, Spanish makes a subtle distinction between the academic title of 'doctor' (anyone with a PhD) and the professional designation of 'médico'. In common parlance, however, you will hear both. Understanding when to use 'médico' involves recognizing its status as the formal, technical, and official term for the profession. If you are filling out a government form, reading a contract, or looking for a professional directory, you will see 'médico'. It encompasses the vast array of medical practitioners, from generalists to highly specialized surgeons.
Professional Designation
In formal contexts, 'médico' is the standard term for the job title. For example, 'Necesito un certificado médico' (I need a medical certificate).

Mi hermana es médica y trabaja en el hospital central de la ciudad.

In Spain and Latin America, the healthcare system is a central pillar of social life, and the 'médico' is a figure of great respect and authority. Historically, the term is derived from the Latin 'medicus', which means 'healer'. This root reflects the long-standing tradition of medicine as a vocation of service. When people use this word, they are often referring to the clinical setting. You might hear someone say 'Voy al médico' (I am going to the doctor) as a general statement of seeking healthcare. This usage is nearly universal across all Spanish-speaking countries. Interestingly, the transition to using the feminine form 'médica' has become standard in recent decades, replacing the older practice of saying 'la médico', which is now considered dated or overly formal in many regions.
The General Practitioner
The 'médico de cabecera' is the family doctor or primary care physician who manages your overall health over time.

El médico de guardia me atendió rápidamente en urgencias.

Beyond the hospital, the word appears in various legal and social contexts. A 'médico forense' is a forensic pathologist, while a 'médico militar' serves in the armed forces. The word also functions as an adjective in phrases like 'seguro médico' (health insurance) or 'equipo médico' (medical equipment). This versatility makes it one of the most essential nouns in the Spanish language for anyone navigating daily life. In literature and media, the 'médico' often serves as a symbol of scientific reason or compassion. Whether in a rural clinic in the Andes or a high-tech facility in Madrid, the 'médico' is the gatekeeper of health. Understanding this word is not just about vocabulary; it is about understanding the structure of Spanish-speaking societies where the doctor-patient relationship is often characterized by a mix of professional distance and deep personal trust.
Medical Ethics
The 'médico' is bound by the 'juramento hipocrático', ensuring they act in the best interest of the patient's life and health.

Consultar a un médico especialista es fundamental para tratar enfermedades crónicas.

La médica de la empresa revisó los protocolos de seguridad e higiene.

Finally, remember that the stress is on the first syllable because of the written accent on the 'é'. This makes it a 'palabra esdrújula'. Pronouncing it correctly is vital for being understood, as misplacing the stress could lead to confusion with other words or simply sound unnatural to native speakers.
Using médico correctly in sentences involves understanding its grammatical gender and its role as both a noun and an adjective. As a noun, it follows standard gender rules: 'el médico' for a male doctor and 'la médica' for a female doctor. When used as an adjective, it must agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies. For example, 'estudios médicos' (medical studies) or 'atención médica' (medical attention). One of the most common sentence structures involves the verb 'ir' (to go). 'Voy al médico' is the standard way to say 'I'm going to the doctor'. Note the use of the contraction 'al' (a + el). If the doctor is female, you would say 'Voy a la médica', though 'Voy al médico' is often used generically to mean 'I am going to the medical office'.
The Verb 'Ser'
When stating someone's profession, use 'ser'. Example: 'Ella quiere ser médica' (She wants to be a doctor). Note that in Spanish, we do not use the indefinite article 'un/una' before professions unless they are modified by an adjective.

El médico le pidió al paciente que respirara profundamente durante el examen físico.

Another important verb is 'recetar' (to prescribe). 'El médico me recetó reposo y mucha agua' (The doctor prescribed rest and plenty of water). In a sentence, 'médico' often acts as the subject performing an action or the object of a preposition. You might also encounter it in passive structures, such as 'Fue atendido por un médico' (He was treated by a doctor). When describing a specific type of doctor, the noun 'médico' is followed by the preposition 'de' or a specific adjective. For instance, 'médico de cabecera' (family doctor), 'médico de familia', or 'médico pediatra' (pediatrician).
Direct Object Usage
When 'médico' is a direct object referring to a specific person, the 'personal a' is required. Example: 'Llamé a la médica' (I called the doctor).

Es importante seguir las indicaciones del médico para una pronta recuperación.

In more complex sentences, 'médico' can be part of a compound noun or a prepositional phrase. 'El informe médico detallaba las lesiones sufridas en el accidente' (The medical report detailed the injuries sustained in the accident). In this case, 'médico' is an adjective modifying 'informe'. If you are talking about the medical field in general, you would use the noun 'medicina', but when referring to the person, it is always 'médico'. For example, 'El médico estudió medicina por siete años' (The doctor studied medicine for seven years).
Pluralization
The plural forms are 'médicos' (all male or mixed group) and 'médicas' (all female group). Example: 'Los médicos están en una reunión' (The doctors are in a meeting).

La médica forense llegó a la escena del crimen para realizar el levantamiento.

Necesitamos un médico urgente en el pasillo cuatro.

Finally, pay attention to the context of 'atención médica'. This phrase is very common in the news and in health-related discussions. 'El gobierno prometió mejorar la atención médica en las zonas rurales' (The government promised to improve medical care in rural areas). Here, 'médica' agrees with the feminine noun 'atención'. By mastering these patterns, you will be able to speak about health and the medical profession with precision and clarity.
You will encounter the word médico in a wide variety of daily life situations in Spanish-speaking countries. One of the most common places is at the 'centro de salud' (health center) or 'hospital'. When you arrive at the reception desk, you might say, 'Tengo una cita con el médico' (I have an appointment with the doctor). In this context, it is the standard way to refer to your healthcare provider. You will also hear it frequently on the news. Reports on public health, medical breakthroughs, or strikes by healthcare workers will invariably use 'los médicos' to refer to the collective body of medical professionals. For example, 'Los médicos de Madrid han convocado una huelga' (The doctors in Madrid have called a strike).
In the Media
Television dramas and movies set in hospitals (like 'Hospital Central' in Spain) use the word 'médico' constantly to distinguish between different roles on the staff.

En las noticias dijeron que el médico del presidente dará un comunicado esta tarde.

At the pharmacy ('farmacia'), the 'farmacéutico' might ask for a 'receta médica' (medical prescription). Without this document signed by a 'médico', you cannot obtain many types of medication. You will also see the word on signage throughout cities. Signs pointing to 'Consultorio Médico' or 'Servicio Médico' are ubiquitous. In academic and professional settings, 'médico' is used to describe the nature of a degree or a research study. A 'médico investigador' is a medical researcher.
In Legal and Formal Documents
Insurance policies will frequently mention the 'cuadro médico', which is the list of doctors and clinics covered by the insurance plan.

El médico de la selección nacional confirmó la lesión del delantero.

In sports, the 'médico deportivo' is a key figure who manages athletes' health and recovery. You will hear sports commentators discussing the 'parte médico' (medical report) of a famous player who has been injured. In rural areas, the 'médico rural' is often a central figure in the community, sometimes traveling long distances to visit patients in their homes. This role is highly respected and often appears in literature as a symbol of dedication. Even in casual conversation among friends, you might hear 'Mi hijo quiere ser médico' (My son wants to be a doctor) or 'Fui al médico por un dolor de espalda' (I went to the doctor for back pain).
In Emergency Situations
If there is an accident, you might hear someone yell '¡Llamen a un médico!' (Call a doctor!) or '¿Hay algún médico aquí?' (Is there a doctor here?).

El médico de cabecera siempre me recomienda hacer más ejercicio físico.

La médica del colegio nos dio una charla sobre nutrición y salud.

Finally, in the workplace, 'reconocimiento médico' refers to a medical check-up required by many employers. You might hear a colleague say, 'Mañana tengo el reconocimiento médico de la empresa'. This wide range of contexts demonstrates that 'médico' is a core word for navigating the social, professional, and personal spheres of the Spanish-speaking world.
One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using médico is failing to include the written accent on the 'é'. In Spanish, accents are not optional; they change the pronunciation and sometimes the meaning of the word. Without the accent, 'medico' is the first-person singular form of the verb 'medicar' (to medicate), as in 'Yo medico a mis pacientes' (I medicate my patients). Another common error is using the word 'medicina' when you mean 'médico'. 'Medicina' is the field of study or the substance you take to feel better (medicine/medication), but it is never the person. You would say 'Estudio medicina' but 'Voy al médico'.
The 'Doctor' Confusion
While 'doctor' is used as a title (Dr. García), calling someone 'un doctor' in a formal document when referring to their profession can sometimes be seen as less precise than 'un médico'. However, the biggest mistake is assuming 'doctor' only applies to medical professionals, as it is also used for PhD holders in any field.

Error: Mi hermano es medicina. Correct: Mi hermano es médico.

Gender agreement is another area where learners struggle. While 'la médico' was once common, 'la médica' is the preferred and modern form. Avoiding the feminine form when referring to a female doctor can sound unnatural or even slightly dismissive in modern Spanish. Similarly, when using 'médico' as an adjective, it must agree with the noun. 'Unos exámenes médicos' (Some medical exams) requires the plural masculine form. Another mistake is forgetting the 'personal a' when the doctor is the direct object of a verb. You must say 'Visité a la médica', not 'Visité la médica'.
Indefinite Articles
In English, we say 'He is A doctor'. In Spanish, we say 'Él es médico'. Adding 'un' (Él es un médico) is only done if you add an adjective (Él es un médico excelente).

Incorrect: El medico me dio una receta. Correct: El médico me dio una receta.

Finally, some learners confuse 'médico' with 'medicamento' (medication). If you go to the pharmacy and ask for 'un médico', they will be very confused; you should ask for 'un medicamento' or 'una medicina'. Also, be careful with the word 'sanitario'. While it can mean 'medical/healthcare worker', it also means 'sanitary' or 'toilet' in certain contexts. Using 'médico' is always the safest and most specific choice when referring to a doctor. Avoid using 'físico' to mean doctor (a common mistake for those thinking of 'physician'); 'físico' means 'physicist' in Spanish. To say physician, stick with 'médico'.
False Cognate Alert
'Physician' is NOT 'físico'. 'Physician' is 'médico'. 'Físico' is a person who studies physics.

Incorrecto: Juan es físico en el hospital. Correcto: Juan es médico en el hospital.

No confundas médico con medicina al hablar de personas.

By being mindful of these common pitfalls—accents, gender agreement, false cognates, and the 'personal a'—you will sound much more like a native speaker and avoid potentially confusing or embarrassing situations in a medical setting.
While médico is the most common and standard term, the Spanish language offers several synonyms and related words that vary depending on the context and the level of formality. The most obvious alternative is doctor/doctora. As mentioned previously, this is used both as a professional title and a respectful way to address a medical professional. In many Latin American countries, 'doctor' is used almost interchangeably with 'médico' in daily speech, whereas in Spain, 'médico' remains very common for the profession itself.
Facultativo
This is a very formal and administrative term for a doctor. You will often see it in legal documents, medical reports, or insurance papers. 'El facultativo de guardia' sounds more bureaucratic than 'el médico de guardia'.

El facultativo firmó el alta del paciente tras comprobar su mejoría.

Another interesting synonym is galeno. This term is literary and somewhat old-fashioned, named after Galen of Pergamon, the famous ancient Greek physician. You might see it in newspaper headlines to avoid repeating the word 'médico' or in more poetic contexts. For example, 'Los galenos luchan por salvar la vida del herido'. Similarly, clínico can refer to a doctor, but it specifically emphasizes their role in observing and treating patients in a clinical setting.
Sanitario
This is a broader term that includes doctors, nurses, and other healthcare staff. It's often used in the plural, 'el personal sanitario', to refer to the entire team working in a hospital or clinic.

El personal sanitario recibió un aplauso por su labor durante la crisis.

In some regions, you might hear the term matasanos. This is a slang, derogatory term (literally 'healthy-killer') equivalent to 'quack' or a bad doctor. It should be avoided in polite conversation but is helpful to know for understanding informal dialogue. On the other end of the spectrum, cirujano refers specifically to a surgeon. While all surgeons are 'médicos', not all 'médicos' are 'cirujanos'. The word internista refers to a specialist in internal medicine.
Comparisons
Médico vs. Doctor: 'Médico' is the profession; 'Doctor' is the title. Médico vs. Facultativo: 'Médico' is common; 'Facultativo' is formal/legal. Médico vs. Galeno: 'Médico' is standard; 'Galeno' is literary.

El cirujano realizó una operación de corazón abierto que duró seis horas.

Consultamos a un especialista en alergias para tratar el problema del niño.

Understanding these alternatives allows you to tailor your language to the situation. Whether you are reading a medical journal (where you might see 'facultativo'), reading a novel (where 'galeno' might appear), or simply talking to a neighbor about their health, knowing the right word for 'doctor' will help you communicate more effectively and with greater nuance.
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Examples by Level

1

Mi padre es médico.

My father is a doctor.

Note the lack of 'un' before the profession.

2

Voy al médico hoy.

I am going to the doctor today.

The contraction 'al' is 'a + el'.

3

La médica es muy buena.

The (female) doctor is very good.

Use 'la médica' for a female professional.

4

¿Dónde está el médico?

Where is the doctor?

Basic question structure.

5

Él quiere ser médico.

He wants to be a doctor.

Verb 'ser' for professions.

6

El médico trabaja en el hospital.

The doctor works in the hospital.

Standard subject-verb-object.

7

Hola, doctor.

Hello, doctor.

Using 'doctor' as a direct address.

8

Necesito un médico.

I need a doctor.

Using 'un' here because it is a general need, not a statement of identity.

1

El médico me dio una receta para la tos.

The doctor gave me a prescription for the cough.

Indirect object 'me' and noun 'receta'.

2

Tengo una cita con el médico a las diez.

I have an appointment with the doctor at ten.

Prepositional phrase 'con el médico'.

3

El médico de cabecera es muy amable.

The family doctor is very kind.

Compound noun 'médico de cabecera'.

4

Mi hermana es médica pediatra.

My sister is a pediatrician.

Specific professional title.

5

El informe médico dice que estoy sano.

The medical report says I am healthy.

'Médico' used as an adjective modifying 'informe'.

6

Llamé al médico porque me sentía mal.

I called the doctor because I felt bad.

Preterite tense 'llamé'.

7

El centro médico está cerca de mi casa.

The medical center is near my house.

'Médico' modifying 'centro'.

8

Los médicos llevan batas blancas.

Doctors wear white coats.

Plural noun 'médicos'.

1

El médico recomendó que hiciera más ejercicio.

The doctor recommended that I exercise more.

Subjunctive 'hiciera' after 'recomendó'.

2

Si te duele mucho, deberías consultar con el médico.

If it hurts a lot, you should consult with the doctor.

Conditional 'deberías'.

3

El médico de guardia me atendió anoche.

The doctor on call treated me last night.

Specific term 'médico de guardia'.

4

Necesito renovar mi seguro médico este mes.

I need to renew my health insurance this month.

Adjective 'médico' agreeing with 'seguro'.

5

El médico le pidió al paciente que se quitara la camisa.

The doctor asked the patient to take off his shirt.

Reported speech with 'pidió que'.

6

No creo que el médico venga hoy.

I don't think the doctor is coming today.

Subjunctive 'venga' after 'no creo que'.

7

El equipo médico trabajó durante toda la noche.

The medical team worked all night long.

Collective noun 'equipo médico'.

8

El médico me explicó los riesgos de la cirugía.

The doctor explained the risks of the surgery to me.

Detailed explanation context.

1

El médico forense determinó la hora de la muerte.

The forensic doctor determined the time of death.

Specialized term 'médico forense'.

2

La negligencia médica es un tema muy serio.

Medical negligence is a very serious issue.

Legal/Professional term 'negligencia médica'.

3

El médico insistió en que el tratamiento era necesario.

The doctor insisted that the treatment was necessary.

Verb 'insistir en que'.

4

Los médicos sin fronteras ayudan en zonas de conflicto.

Doctors Without Borders help in conflict zones.

Proper name of an organization.

5

El avance médico ha permitido curar enfermedades antes mortales.

Medical advancement has allowed for the cure of previously fatal diseases.

'Médico' as an adjective for 'avance'.

6

Fue un error médico lo que causó la complicación.

It was a medical error that caused the complication.

Noun-adjective pair 'error médico'.

7

El médico rehabilitador me ayudó con la fisioterapia.

The rehabilitation doctor helped me with physical therapy.

Specific specialist title.

8

El criterio médico es fundamental en estos casos.

Medical judgment is fundamental in these cases.

Abstract noun phrase 'criterio médico'.

1

El secreto médico impide que el doctor revele información personal.

Medical privilege prevents the doctor from revealing personal information.

Legal term 'secreto médico'.

2

La ética médica prohíbe realizar experimentos sin consentimiento.

Medical ethics prohibit conducting experiments without consent.

Formal field 'ética médica'.

3

El perito médico testificó durante el juicio.

The medical expert testified during the trial.

Legal specialist 'perito médico'.

4

El médico adjunto supervisa a los residentes en el hospital.

The attending physician supervises the residents in the hospital.

Hospital hierarchy term 'médico adjunto'.

5

El diagnóstico médico fue corroborado por una segunda opinión.

The medical diagnosis was corroborated by a second opinion.

Passive structure with 'fue corroborado'.

6

El médico militar fue condecorado por su valentía en el campo.

The military doctor was decorated for his bravery in the field.

Specific role 'médico militar'.

7

La praxis médica se evalúa constantemente para evitar errores.

Medical practice is constantly evaluated to avoid errors.

Formal term 'praxis médica'.

8

El médico intensivista trabaja en la unidad de cuidados críticos.

The intensivist works in the critical care unit.

Highly specialized title.

1

El juramento hipocrático es el pilar de la conducta del médico.

The Hippocratic Oath is the pillar of a doctor's conduct.

Historical/Ethical reference.

2

El médico de empresa debe velar por la salud laboral de los empleados.

The occupational doctor must ensure the occupational health of the employees.

Corporate medical role.

3

La mala praxis del médico conllevó graves sanciones legales.

The doctor's malpractice led to serious legal sanctions.

Legal consequence context.

4

El médico humanista no solo trata el cuerpo, sino también el alma.

The humanist doctor treats not only the body but also the soul.

Philosophical description.

5

El facultativo dictaminó que el paciente no estaba en condiciones de viajar.

The physician ruled that the patient was not in a condition to travel.

Using the formal 'facultativo'.

6

El médico cooperante se enfrentó a condiciones extremas en la selva.

The aid doctor faced extreme conditions in the jungle.

Humanitarian context.

7

La literatura española cuenta con grandes figuras de médicos escritores.

Spanish literature has great figures of doctor-writers.

Cultural/Literary context.

8

El médico de familia es el primer eslabón en la cadena sanitaria.

The family doctor is the first link in the healthcare chain.

Metaphorical usage.

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