At the A1 level, you should recognize 'válvula' as a word for a technical object. You don't need to know how it works, just that it is 'la válvula' (feminine). You might see it in a basic science book or on a bicycle pump. Think of it like a 'door' for water or air. For example: 'La válvula es pequeña' (The valve is small). You use it when you need to put air in a ball or a bike tire. It is a concrete noun that you can touch. Most A1 learners will only use it in very specific situations like 'la válvula de la bicicleta'. It is important to remember the 'v' sounds like 'b' in Spanish, so it sounds like 'bál-bu-la'. Don't worry about the accent yet, just focus on the 'la' and the basic meaning of a part that controls air or water.
At the A2 level, you start to use 'válvula' in daily life contexts. You should know how to say 'abrir la válvula' (open the valve) and 'cerrar la válvula' (close the valve). This is useful for household chores, like using a pressure cooker or checking the gas. You also learn that it's a feminine noun. You might encounter it when talking about cars or simple machines. A common phrase at this level is 'válvula de escape', used literally for an engine or figuratively for a hobby. You should be able to describe where a valve is: 'La válvula está en el motor' or 'La válvula está rota'. You are beginning to understand that 'válvula' is more technical than 'llave' or 'grifo'.
At the B1 level, you use 'válvula' in more varied and complex ways. You can talk about health, specifically the heart ('válvula cardíaca'). You understand that if someone has a heart problem, it might involve a 'válvula'. You also use the term in more detailed technical descriptions, like 'válvula de seguridad' in industrial or kitchen settings. You can explain the function of a valve using the subjunctive or conditional: 'Si la válvula se rompiera, el agua saldría'. You also start using the figurative meaning 'válvula de escape' more naturally to describe stress relief. You are comfortable with the spelling, including the accent on the 'á', and you know the difference between a 'válvula' and a 'llave de paso'.
At the B2 level, 'válvula' becomes part of your technical and abstract vocabulary. You can discuss environmental issues, such as a 'válvula' in an oil pipeline that failed. You use specific types of valves in conversation, like 'válvula de retención' or 'válvula de alivio'. In writing, you can use the word in more formal structures: 'La implementación de una válvula de seguridad es obligatoria según la ley'. You also use 'válvula de escape' in social and political contexts, for example, discussing how social media acts as a 'válvula de escape' for public frustration. You understand the nuances of fluid dynamics in a basic sense and can explain how a valve regulates pressure and flow using precise verbs like 'regular', 'obstruir', and 'accionar'.
At the C1 level, your use of 'válvula' is precise and sophisticated. You use it in professional settings—be it medical, engineering, or legal. You can read technical manuals or medical journals that discuss 'estenosis valvular' or 'válvulas termoiónicas' without difficulty. Your metaphorical use is nuanced; you might describe a specific economic policy as a 'válvula de seguridad' for the market. You are aware of the word's etymology from Latin 'valvula' and how it relates to other words in the word family. You can participate in complex debates about infrastructure or health where the integrity of 'válvulas' is a key point. You also recognize regional variations in how the word might be applied to older technology like vacuum tubes in Spain.
At the C2 level, you have complete mastery over the word 'válvula'. You can use it in literary contexts to create complex imagery or in highly specialized academic discourse. You understand the history of the word and its role in the development of the steam engine and modern medicine. You can translate technical documents involving fluid mechanics with perfect accuracy, choosing between 'válvula', 'obturador', or 'compuerta' based on the exact mechanical design. You use the term effortlessly in deep psychological analysis of 'válvulas de escape' in the human psyche. Your pronunciation is perfect, including the subtle 'b' sound for the 'v', and your written use of the word is flawless in every stylistic register, from colloquial slang to the most rigid academic prose.

válvula em 30 segundos

  • Válvula is a feminine noun meaning valve, used for mechanical parts, heart components, and metaphorical stress relief.
  • Commonly paired with verbs like 'abrir' (open) and 'cerrar' (close), it is essential for technical and medical Spanish.
  • In daily life, you find it in tires, pressure cookers, and plumbing, but use 'grifo' for a sink tap.
  • The figurative phrase 'válvula de escape' is very popular for describing hobbies that relieve pressure or stress.
The word válvula is a fundamental noun in Spanish that refers to a mechanical or biological device designed to regulate, direct, or control the flow of a fluid (liquid, gas, or even slurries) by opening, closing, or partially obstructing various passageways. In everyday life, you encounter this word in contexts ranging from plumbing and automotive mechanics to human anatomy and professional industrial settings. Understanding this word is essential because it bridges the gap between basic household maintenance and complex scientific discussions.
Mechanical Context
In engineering, a válvula is the component that prevents backflow or manages pressure. For example, a steam engine relies on a safety valve to prevent explosions.

El fontanero tuvo que cambiar la válvula de la tubería principal porque goteaba.

Beyond the physical, the term is frequently used in a figurative sense. A válvula de escape (escape valve) describes an activity or hobby that allows someone to release stress or pent-up emotions. This metaphorical use is extremely common in Spanish literature and daily conversation when discussing mental health or social pressures. In biological terms, the human heart has four válvulas that ensure blood flows in the correct direction. If you are at a doctor's office in a Spanish-speaking country, you might hear about the 'válvula mitral' or 'válvula tricúspide'. This makes the word indispensable for medical professionals and patients alike.
Biological Context
Specifically refers to the flaps of tissue in the heart or veins that prevent the backward flow of blood.

El cirujano reparó la válvula mitral del paciente con éxito.

Historically, the concept of the valve dates back to ancient civilizations that managed water flow in irrigation systems, but the word itself evolved through Latin into the modern Spanish we use today. Whether you are fixing a flat tire (checking the valve of the tube) or discussing industrial safety, this word appears constantly. It is a feminine noun, so it always takes the article 'la' or 'una'.
Automotive Context
Refers to the intake and exhaust valves in an internal combustion engine that control the fuel-air mixture and exhaust gases.

El motor de dieciséis válvulas es mucho más eficiente en el consumo de combustible.

No olvides ponerle el tapón a la válvula de la llanta después de inflarla.

La música es mi válvula de escape cuando estoy muy estresado por el trabajo.

Using válvula correctly involves understanding its grammatical role as a feminine noun and the specific verbs that usually accompany it. Most often, you will 'abrir' (open), 'cerrar' (close), 'ajustar' (adjust), or 'reemplazar' (replace) a valve. In technical manuals, you will frequently see the passive voice used, such as 'la válvula es accionada por un pistón'.
Common Verb Pairings
Abrir la válvula (Open), Cerrar la válvula (Close), Regular la válvula (Regulate), Limpiar la válvula (Clean).

Es vital cerrar la válvula de gas antes de salir de vacaciones por seguridad.

When describing the state of a valve, we use adjectives like 'obstruida' (clogged), 'defectuosa' (defective), 'abierta' (open), or 'cerrada' (closed). For instance, 'una válvula obstruida' can cause a heart attack or an engine failure. The syntax follows the standard Spanish noun-adjective order. In industrial and scientific writing, 'válvula' is often followed by a prepositional phrase to specify its type. Examples include 'válvula de seguridad' (safety valve), 'válvula de retención' (check valve), and 'válvula de alivio' (relief valve). These compound terms are treated as single semantic units.
Compound Nouns
Válvula de bola (Ball valve), Válvula de mariposa (Butterfly valve), Válvula de aguja (Needle valve).

La válvula de seguridad de la olla a presión comenzó a silbar ruidosamente.

If you are giving instructions, you will likely use the imperative mood. '¡Cierra la válvula ahora!' (Close the valve now!). In a more formal or instructional setting, you might see 'Se recomienda inspeccionar las válvulas cada seis meses'. The plural form is 'válvulas', and it follows standard pluralization rules.
Medical Phrases
Sustitución de válvula (Valve replacement), Estenosis de la válvula (Valve stenosis).

El paciente requiere una cirugía para reemplazar una válvula cardíaca dañada.

Si la válvula de admisión falla, el motor no funcionará correctamente.

¿Podrías revisar si la válvula del radiador está totalmente abierta?

You will encounter the word válvula in a surprising variety of real-world scenarios. In a domestic environment, it most commonly appears during home repairs or when using kitchen appliances. For instance, if your water heater is leaking, the plumber will likely mention the 'válvula de alivio'. In the kitchen, the 'olla exprés' (pressure cooker) is a staple in Spanish-speaking households, and its most important feature is the safety valve that prevents it from exploding.
In the Kitchen
Used when referring to pressure cookers or gas stove connections.

Ten cuidado con la válvula de la olla; el vapor sale muy caliente.

At the mechanic's shop, 'válvula' is a keyword. Modern cars are often marketed by their number of valves (e.g., 'un motor de 16 válvulas'). If your car is running poorly, the mechanic might tell you that the 'válvula EGR' is dirty or that the 'válvulas' need adjusting. This is standard vocabulary for anyone owning or maintaining a vehicle. In the medical field, cardiologists use this word daily. Heart valve issues are a major topic in health news and patient consultations. You might hear about 'insuficiencia valvular' (valvular insufficiency) on a health podcast or in a hospital waiting room. Furthermore, in news reports regarding infrastructure or energy, 'válvulas' are mentioned in the context of gas pipelines or water dams.
In the News
Often heard in reports about gas supply lines or environmental accidents involving leaks.

La empresa cerró la válvula del oleoducto para evitar un desastre ecológico.

Finally, in psychological or sociological discussions, the phrase 'válvula de escape' is a common idiom. A journalist might describe a music festival as a 'válvula de escape' for a generation facing economic hardship. This abstract usage is very sophisticated and shows a high level of fluency.
At the Ferretería
Essential word when buying parts for plumbing or irrigation.

Necesito una válvula de retención para que el agua no regrese al pozo.

El ejercicio físico funciona como mi válvula de escape diaria.

El neumático pierde aire por la válvula, no porque esté pinchado.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using válvula is confusing it with other related words like 'grifo' (faucet/tap) or 'llave' (key/wrench/tap). While a 'grifo' is a type of valve, it specifically refers to the one you use to wash your hands. If you tell a plumber 'el grifo del motor está roto', they will be very confused. You must use 'válvula' for internal mechanical components and 'grifo' or 'llave de paso' for user-facing water controls.
Válvula vs. Grifo
Válvula is technical/internal; Grifo is the external tap in a sink or bathtub.

Incorrecto: El grifo del corazón. Correcto: La válvula del corazón.

Another common error is gender agreement. Because 'válvula' ends in 'a', it is feminine, but some students mistakenly use 'el' because they associate mechanical parts with masculine nouns in English (though English doesn't have gender, the mental association exists). Always remember: 'la válvula', 'una válvula', 'estas válvulas'. Spelling is also a pitfall. The accent on the 'á' is mandatory in formal writing. Leaving it off doesn't change the meaning, but it marks you as a beginner. Also, remember that the 'v' and 'l' are followed by 'v' and 'u'. Some learners try to spell it like 'vabula' or 'valvola' (the Italian version).
Spelling & Accentuation
Esdrújula word: Vál-vu-la. Always has an accent on the 'á'.

Error: La valvula de escape. Correcto: La válvula de escape.

Finally, watch out for the preposition 'de'. Learners often try to translate 'safety valve' as 'válvula seguridad' (omitting 'de'). In Spanish, you almost always need that connecting 'de' to link the noun with its function or type: 'válvula de seguridad', 'válvula de paso', 'válvula de aire'.
Electronic Context
Válvula de vacío (Vacuum tube) - used in vintage amplifiers and radios.

Este amplificador de guitarra usa válvulas para conseguir un sonido más cálido.

No es un grifo, es una válvula de compuerta lo que necesitas para el riego.

La válvula está atascada y no podemos regular la presión del gas.

To speak like a native, you need to know when to use válvula and when to choose a more specific synonym. The most common alternative is 'llave de paso'. While 'válvula' is the technical term for the device, 'llave de paso' is what people usually say when talking about the main water or gas shut-off valve in a house. If you are in the kitchen, 'grifo' is the word for the faucet where water comes out.
Válvula vs. Llave de paso
Válvula: Technical/General. Llave de paso: Domestic shut-off valve.

Cierra la llave de paso para que deje de salir agua por la válvula rota.

In larger industrial contexts, you might hear 'compuerta' (gate). A 'válvula de compuerta' is a specific type, but often people just say 'compuerta' when referring to large-scale water control in dams or canals. Another related term is 'obturador' (shutter/plug), which refers to the specific part of the valve that blocks the flow. In photography, 'obturador' is the camera shutter, which functions similarly to a valve for light. When talking about electronics, 'válvula' is synonymous with 'tubo de vacío' in some regions, though 'válvula' is the more traditional term for vacuum tubes in Spain. In medicine, while 'válvula' is the standard for the heart, 'esfínter' (sphincter) is the term for biological valves that control the passage of waste or food in the digestive system.
Medical Alternatives
Esfínter: Biological valve for solid/liquid waste. Válvula: Heart/circulatory system.

El médico explicó que el esfínter esférico actúa como una válvula natural.

If you want to sound more colloquial when something is acting as a relief, you can use 'desahogo' instead of 'válvula de escape'. For example: 'Escribir en mi diario es mi desahogo'. This is less mechanical and more emotional.
Automotive Alternatives
Inyectores: Often confused with valves, but they spray fuel instead of just opening/closing.

La válvula de admisión está sucia, pero los inyectores están bien.

El fontanero instaló una válvula de flotador en el tanque del inodoro.

Para nosotros, el arte es una válvula de escape necesaria en la ciudad.

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

The term was originally used in botany to describe the parts of a seed pod that open up, before it was applied to mechanics and anatomy.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /ˈvælvjʊlə/
US /ˈvælvjələ/
The stress is on the first syllable: VÁL-vu-la.
Rima com
fábula tabula glándula cápsula pápula fístula espatula cópula
Erros comuns
  • Pronouncing the 'v' like an English 'v' (labiodental). In Spanish, it should be bilabial, sounding like 'b'.
  • Omitting the written accent on the 'á'.
  • Adding an extra 'e' at the end like 'valvulae'.
  • Stress on the second syllable (val-VÚ-la).
  • Pronouncing the 'u' like 'yu' instead of a pure 'u'.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 2/5

Easy to recognize due to being a cognate, but requires attention to technical context.

Escrita 3/5

The accent on the 'á' and the double 'v/u' spelling can be tricky.

Expressão oral 2/5

Bilabial 'v' and the 'esdrújula' stress are the main hurdles.

Audição 2/5

Clear pronunciation, but can be confused with 'bárbula' in fast speech.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

agua aire abrir cerrar motor

Aprenda a seguir

presión tubería mantenimiento cardíaco mecanismo

Avançado

hemodinámica termoiónica obturador caudal solenoide

Gramática essencial

Nouns ending in -ula are almost always feminine.

La válvula, la brújula, la cápsula.

Esdrújula words (stress on the 3rd to last syllable) always have an accent.

Válvula, máquina, física.

Prepositional phrases with 'de' define the purpose of a noun.

Válvula de escape, válvula de seguridad.

Bilabial 'v' pronunciation (v sounds like b).

Válvula sounds like 'Bálbula'.

Adjective agreement with feminine nouns.

La válvula está rota (not roto).

Exemplos por nível

1

La válvula es roja.

The valve is red.

Feminine noun 'la válvula' with the adjective 'roja' agreeing in gender.

2

Cierra la válvula, por favor.

Close the valve, please.

Imperative 'cierra' (tú form) used with the direct object 'la válvula'.

3

La bicicleta tiene una válvula.

The bicycle has a valve.

Simple sentence using the verb 'tener'.

4

La válvula de aire es nueva.

The air valve is new.

Use of 'de' to specify the type of valve.

5

¿Dónde está la válvula?

Where is the valve?

Interrogative sentence with 'dónde'.

6

Necesito una válvula para el balón.

I need a valve for the ball.

Indefinite article 'una' used with 'válvula'.

7

La válvula no funciona.

The valve does not work.

Negative sentence using 'no' before the verb.

8

Hay dos válvulas aquí.

There are two valves here.

Plural form 'válvulas' used with the number 'dos'.

1

Tienes que abrir la válvula de gas.

You have to open the gas valve.

Periphrastic 'tener que' + infinitive.

2

La válvula de la olla está sucia.

The pot's valve is dirty.

Possessive construction using 'de'.

3

El agua sale por la válvula.

Water comes out through the valve.

Preposition 'por' indicating path.

4

Mi válvula de escape es correr.

My escape valve is running.

Figurative use of the term.

5

Esa válvula es muy importante.

That valve is very important.

Demonstrative adjective 'esa' (feminine).

6

La válvula se rompió ayer.

The valve broke yesterday.

Reflexive 'se' used for accidental or spontaneous action.

7

Busco una válvula de repuesto.

I am looking for a spare valve.

Direct object without preposition 'a' because it's an object.

8

Limpia la válvula con cuidado.

Clean the valve carefully.

Imperative 'limpia' with adverbial phrase 'con cuidado'.

1

El médico revisó mi válvula cardíaca.

The doctor checked my heart valve.

Medical terminology: 'válvula cardíaca'.

2

Si la válvula falla, la presión subirá.

If the valve fails, the pressure will rise.

First conditional: 'si' + present, future.

3

La válvula de seguridad evitó el accidente.

The safety valve prevented the accident.

Preterite tense 'evitó'.

4

Necesitamos ajustar las válvulas del motor.

We need to adjust the engine valves.

Plural 'las válvulas' as a direct object.

5

Ella usa el arte como válvula de escape.

She uses art as an escape valve.

Metaphorical use in a complete sentence.

6

La válvula permite que el aire entre.

The valve allows the air to enter.

Verb 'permitir' followed by 'que' + subjunctive.

7

Es una válvula de retención unidireccional.

It is a one-way check valve.

Technical adjectives 'retención' and 'unidireccional'.

8

Compré una válvula nueva para el radiador.

I bought a new valve for the radiator.

Preposition 'para' indicating purpose.

1

La válvula de alivio se activó automáticamente.

The relief valve activated automatically.

Reflexive 'se activó' for automatic action.

2

El sistema cuenta con varias válvulas de control.

The system has several control valves.

Verb 'contar con' meaning 'to have' or 'to feature'.

3

Es probable que la válvula esté obstruida.

It is probable that the valve is clogged.

Impersonal expression + 'que' + subjunctive.

4

La cirugía de válvula cardíaca fue un éxito.

The heart valve surgery was a success.

Compound noun phrase as subject.

5

El cierre de la válvula detuvo la fuga.

The closing of the valve stopped the leak.

Noun 'cierre' derived from the verb 'cerrar'.

6

Debes verificar la válvula antes de empezar.

You must verify the valve before starting.

Modal 'deber' + infinitive.

7

La válvula regula el flujo de combustible.

The valve regulates the fuel flow.

Technical verb 'regular'.

8

Sin una válvula de escape, la tensión estallará.

Without an escape valve, the tension will explode.

Conditional logic without 'si' using 'sin'.

1

La estenosis de la válvula aórtica es grave.

Aortic valve stenosis is serious.

Advanced medical noun 'estenosis'.

2

Se requiere una válvula de mariposa para este tubo.

A butterfly valve is required for this pipe.

Passive 'se requiere'.

3

El gobierno actuó como válvula de seguridad social.

The government acted as a social safety valve.

Sophisticated political metaphor.

4

La válvula termoiónica fue clave en la radio.

The thermionic valve was key in radio.

Historical technical term.

5

Hay que calibrar la válvula con precisión milimétrica.

The valve must be calibrated with millimeter precision.

Adverbial phrase 'con precisión milimétrica'.

6

La fatiga del metal afectó a la válvula principal.

Metal fatigue affected the main valve.

Technical subject 'fatiga del metal'.

7

La válvula de expansión es vital en refrigeración.

The expansion valve is vital in refrigeration.

Specialized industrial context.

8

El flujo se interrumpió al fallar la válvula.

The flow was interrupted when the valve failed.

Gerund/temporal construction with 'al' + infinitive.

1

La obsolescencia de las válvulas de vacío es total.

The obsolescence of vacuum tubes is total.

High-level noun 'obsolescencia'.

2

La válvula mitral presentaba un prolapso severo.

The mitral valve showed severe prolapse.

Specialized medical diagnostic language.

3

El diseño integra una válvula de alivio redundante.

The design integrates a redundant relief valve.

Technical adjective 'redundante'.

4

La literatura sirve de válvula de escape al autor.

Literature serves as an escape valve for the author.

Literary analysis register.

5

Se procedió a la apertura gradual de la válvula.

They proceeded with the gradual opening of the valve.

Formal administrative/technical register 'se procedió a'.

6

La válvula solenoide es controlada por el PLC.

The solenoid valve is controlled by the PLC.

Industrial automation terminology.

7

La insuficiencia valvular puede ser asintomática.

Valvular insufficiency can be asymptomatic.

Advanced medical adjective 'asintomática'.

8

La válvula de compuerta regula el caudal del río.

The gate valve regulates the river's flow.

Specific technical noun 'caudal'.

Colocações comuns

válvula de seguridad
válvula cardíaca
válvula de escape
válvula de retención
válvula de alivio
válvula de admisión
válvula de bola
abrir la válvula
cerrar la válvula
válvula de vacío

Frases Comuns

válvula de escape

— A way to release tension or stress. It can be literal or metaphorical.

La pintura es su válvula de escape.

válvula de seguridad

— A device that prevents accidents by releasing pressure. Also used for social policies.

El subsidio sirve como válvula de seguridad.

válvula de paso

— A general term for a valve that allows or stops flow in a pipe.

Busca la válvula de paso del gas.

válvula de retención

— A valve that only allows fluid to flow in one direction.

La válvula de retención evita el reflujo.

válvula de alivio

— A valve designed to release excess pressure safely.

La válvula de alivio gotea un poco.

válvula de mariposa

— A specific type of valve with a rotating disc.

Cambiamos la válvula de mariposa ayer.

válvula solenoide

— An electrically controlled valve.

La válvula solenoide está quemada.

válvula de expansión

— Used in air conditioning to cool the refrigerant.

La válvula de expansión está congelada.

válvula mitral

— A specific valve in the heart.

Tiene un soplo en la válvula mitral.

ajuste de válvulas

— A maintenance task for car engines.

El coche necesita un ajuste de válvulas.

Frequentemente confundido com

válvula vs valla

Valla means fence. They sound similar but are unrelated.

válvula vs valva

Valva refers to the shell of a mollusk. It is the root of válvula.

válvula vs balbucea

From balbucear (to stammer). Sounds like 'válvula' but different meaning.

Expressões idiomáticas

"ser una válvula de escape"

— To be a relief or a way to vent emotions.

Su sentido del humor es una válvula de escape para todos.

informal
"cerrar todas las válvulas"

— To cut off all communication or resources (metaphorical).

El jefe cerró todas las válvulas de información.

formal
"abrir la válvula"

— To start the flow of something, often used for money or talk.

El banco abrió la válvula del crédito.

neutral
"válvula de seguridad social"

— Policies meant to prevent social unrest.

Las becas son una válvula de seguridad social.

academic
"funcionar como válvula"

— To regulate a situation so it doesn't get out of hand.

El mediador funcionó como válvula entre las partes.

neutral
"tener las válvulas sucias"

— To be slow or not thinking clearly (automotive metaphor).

Hoy tengo las válvulas sucias, no me concentro.

slang
"válvula de alivio emocional"

— A specific person or activity that helps one feel better.

Mi perro es mi válvula de alivio emocional.

informal
"presión en la válvula"

— Being at a breaking point.

Hay mucha presión en la válvula política actual.

neutral
"válvula de escape literaria"

— Using writing to cope with reality.

La poesía fue su válvula de escape literaria.

literary
"golpe de válvula"

— A sudden, decisive action (rare).

Dio un golpe de válvula y cambió la empresa.

technical/figurative

Fácil de confundir

válvula vs grifo

Both control water.

A grifo is an external tap; a válvula is an internal or technical regulator.

El grifo gotea, pero la válvula de paso está bien.

válvula vs llave

Llave can mean tap or wrench.

Llave is more common for daily use; válvula is for technical descriptions.

Pásame la llave para apretar la válvula.

válvula vs bomba

Both are in engine/fluid systems.

A bomba (pump) moves the fluid; a válvula (valve) controls or stops it.

La bomba empuja el agua hacia la válvula.

válvula vs tubo

Both in plumbing.

A tubo is the pipe; a válvula is the control point on the pipe.

El tubo está roto antes de la válvula.

válvula vs pistón

Both engine parts.

A pistón moves to create power; a válvula opens to let air/fuel in.

El pistón sube y la válvula se cierra.

Padrões de frases

A1

La válvula es [adjetivo].

La válvula es azul.

A2

[Verbo] la válvula de [sustantivo].

Cierra la válvula de gas.

B1

Si la válvula [verbo presente], [verbo futuro].

Si la válvula falla, el agua saldrá.

B2

Es necesario que [verbo subjuntivo] la válvula.

Es necesario que revises la válvula.

C1

La válvula actúa como un [sustantivo].

La válvula actúa como un regulador de flujo.

C2

Dada la insuficiencia de la válvula, se procedió a...

Dada la insuficiencia de la válvula, se procedió a la cirugía.

A2

Uso [actividad] como válvula de escape.

Uso el yoga como válvula de escape.

B1

La válvula está [participio].

La válvula está obstruida.

Família de palavras

Substantivos

valvulería
valvulopatía
valvulina

Verbos

valvular

Adjetivos

valvular
bivalvo
univalvo

Relacionado

corazón
motor
presión
fluido
tubería

Como usar

frequency

Very common in technical, medical, and common household contexts.

Erros comuns
  • El válvula La válvula

    Válvula is a feminine noun. Using the masculine article is a common gender error.

  • Valvula (without accent) Válvula

    It is an esdrújula word and requires a written accent on the 'á'.

  • Grifo del corazón Válvula del corazón

    Grifo is only for water taps. Biological valves must be called 'válvulas'.

  • Válvula seguridad Válvula de seguridad

    In Spanish, you need the preposition 'de' to connect the two nouns.

  • Pronouncing 'v' as labiodental Pronouncing 'v' as bilabial 'b'

    In Spanish, 'v' and 'b' are phonetically identical.

Dicas

Gender Agreement

Always pair 'válvula' with feminine adjectives like 'nueva', 'rota', or 'abierta'. This is a common mistake for English speakers.

Bilabial V

Don't bite your lip for the 'v'. Keep your lips together like you're saying a 'b'. This makes your Spanish sound much more authentic.

Technical vs. Common

Use 'válvula' for technical or medical discussions. Use 'llave' or 'grifo' for everyday water control in the house.

The Balloon Trick

Imagine a balloon (balón). To fill it, you need a 'vál-vula'. Both start with the 'b/v' sound.

Pressure Cookers

If you live in Spain, you'll hear about 'la válvula de la olla' every time someone makes lentils. It's a key part of the kitchen.

Escape Stress

Use 'válvula de escape' when talking about your hobbies. It sounds very natural and sophisticated.

The Esdrújula Rule

Count the syllables: vál-vu-la. Since the stress is on the third from the last, it MUST have a tilde.

Heart Health

If you hear 'soplo', it often relates to a 'válvula'. A 'soplo' is a heart murmur.

Mechanic Talk

If a mechanic says 'las válvulas', they are usually talking about the intake/exhaust valves of the cylinder head.

Vintage Sound

Guitarists love 'amplificadores de válvulas' for their warm sound. It's the Spanish term for tube amps.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of a 'VALve' that is 'VALuable' for your 'LAp' (Válvula). Or imagine a valve that keeps the 'VALue' in the 'LAke'.

Associação visual

Picture a giant red wheel valve on a pipe. The wheel looks like an 'O', but remember the word starts with 'V'. Imagine the 'V' is the shape of the valve seat.

Word Web

Corazón Motor Agua Gas Presión Seguridad Escape Tubería

Desafio

Try to find three items in your house that have a valve and name them in Spanish: 'La válvula de la llanta', 'La válvula de la olla', 'La válvula del gas'.

Origem da palavra

From the Latin 'valvula', which is a diminutive of 'valva'.

Significado original: A folding door or one of the leaves of a folding door.

Italic -> Romance -> Spanish.

Contexto cultural

No specific sensitivities, but be careful when discussing 'válvulas cardíacas' as it can be a sensitive health topic for some.

English speakers use 'valve' for everything, but Spanish speakers are more likely to use 'llave' for domestic water.

In the movie 'Relatos Salvajes', the concept of a 'válvula de escape' for social rage is central. Technical manuals for SEAT cars (Spain's national brand) frequently use 'válvula'. Medical dramas like 'Pulseras Rojas' often mention heart valves.

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Automotive Repair

  • Ajustar las válvulas
  • Válvula de admisión
  • Válvula de escape
  • Válvula EGR

Medicine

  • Válvula mitral
  • Válvula aórtica
  • Cirugía de válvula
  • Soplo valvular

Plumbing

  • Válvula de paso
  • Válvula de retención
  • Válvula de flotador
  • Cerrar la válvula

Kitchen / Cooking

  • Válvula de la olla
  • Válvula de seguridad
  • Limpiar la válvula
  • Válvula de gas

Psychology

  • Válvula de escape
  • Liberar presión
  • Desahogo emocional
  • Buscar una válvula

Iniciadores de conversa

"¿Sabes dónde está la válvula de paso del agua en esta casa?"

"¿Alguna vez has tenido que cambiar una válvula del motor de tu coche?"

"¿Cuál es tu válvula de escape favorita cuando tienes mucho estrés?"

"¿Crees que la válvula de seguridad de esta olla está funcionando bien?"

"¿Has oído hablar de la nueva cirugía para las válvulas cardíacas?"

Temas para diário

Describe un momento en el que necesitaste una 'válvula de escape' emocional y qué hiciste.

Escribe sobre una reparación que hiciste en casa usando términos como 'válvula' y 'presión'.

Imagina que eres una válvula en un gran motor. ¿Cómo es tu día a día?

Reflexiona sobre la importancia de las válvulas de seguridad en la sociedad moderna.

Escribe una historia corta sobre un fontanero que encuentra una válvula mágica.

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

Es un sustantivo femenino. Siempre se dice 'la válvula' o 'una válvula'. Por ejemplo, 'La válvula está abierta'.

Un grifo es lo que usas en el lavabo para lavarte las manos. Una válvula es el mecanismo interno que controla el flujo en tuberías o motores.

Se dice 'válvula de seguridad'. Se usa tanto para máquinas como para describir medidas sociales que evitan conflictos.

Literalmente es la válvula por donde salen los gases de un motor. Metafóricamente, es una actividad que ayuda a liberar el estrés.

Sí, lleva tilde en la primera 'á' porque es una palabra esdrújula. Las palabras esdrújulas siempre llevan tilde.

Sí, es el término correcto. El corazón tiene cuatro válvulas: mitral, tricúspide, aórtica y pulmonar.

En español, la 'v' se pronuncia igual que la 'b'. Suena como 'bál-bu-la'.

Es una válvula que permite que el fluido pase en una sola dirección, evitando que regrese.

Sí, especialmente con la 'olla exprés' (olla a presión). Es la pieza que pita cuando sale el vapor.

Se dice 'reemplazo de válvula cardíaca' o 'sustitución valvular'.

Teste-se 190 perguntas

writing

Escribe una frase usando 'válvula de escape' en sentido figurado.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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Escribe una instrucción para cerrar una válvula de gas.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Describe qué hace una válvula en una tubería.

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writing

Traduce: 'The heart valve is damaged'.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Escribe una frase sobre un neumático y una válvula.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Escribe una frase técnica sobre una válvula de seguridad.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Escribe una frase usando el plural 'válvulas'.

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writing

Traduce: 'I need a spare valve for the pressure cooker'.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Escribe una frase sobre la válvula mitral.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Usa la palabra 'válvula' en una frase sobre música.

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writing

Escribe una frase sobre una válvula de retención.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Escribe una frase comparando una válvula y un grifo.

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writing

Escribe una frase sobre una válvula solenoide.

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writing

Traduce: 'The valve is clogged with calcium'.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Escribe una frase sobre una válvula de mariposa.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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Escribe una frase sobre una válvula de expansión.

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Escribe una frase sobre una válvula de alivio.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Escribe una frase sobre una válvula de bola.

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writing

Escribe una frase sobre una válvula de admisión.

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writing

Escribe una frase sobre la válvula aórtica.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Pronuncia: 'La válvula de seguridad'.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Pronuncia: 'Válvula de escape'.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Pronuncia: 'Válvula cardíaca'.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Pronuncia: 'Válvula de retención'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Pronuncia: 'Válvula solenoide'.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Explica en español para qué sirve una válvula.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

¿Cuál es tu válvula de escape? Responde en español.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Pronuncia: 'Estenosis valvular'.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Pronuncia: 'Válvula de mariposa'.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Pronuncia: 'Válvula de alivio'.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Describe un problema con una válvula.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Pronuncia: 'Válvula de expansión'.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Pronuncia: 'Válvula de bola'.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Pronuncia: 'Válvula de aguja'.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Di: 'El motor tiene dieciséis válvulas'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Di: 'Cierra la válvula de paso inmediatamente'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Pronuncia: 'Sustitución valvular'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Di: 'La válvula mitral presenta un prolapso'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Pronuncia: 'Válvula de flotador'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Di: 'Necesito una válvula de repuesto'.

Read this aloud:

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listening

¿Qué palabra escuchas: válvula o valla?

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listening

¿Dijo el hablante 'abrir' o 'cerrar' la válvula?

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listening

¿Cuántas válvulas mencionó el mecánico?

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listening

¿De qué tipo de válvula está hablando el médico?

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listening

¿Qué problema tiene la válvula según el audio?

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listening

¿Dónde está la válvula de paso?

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listening

¿Qué válvula se activó automáticamente?

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listening

¿A qué hora vendrá el fontanero a cambiar la válvula?

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listening

¿Qué instrumento usa válvulas según el audio?

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¿Qué le pasa a la válvula del neumático?

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¿Cuál es la válvula de escape del narrador?

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¿Qué tipo de cirugía mencionó el paciente?

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¿Qué válvula controla el riego?

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listening

¿Qué material es la válvula?

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¿Por qué silba la válvula de la olla?

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/ 190 correct

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