Spanish vocabulary · Beginner
How to Say Compass in Spanish
Brújula · noun · BROO-hoo-lah
The Spanish word for a directional compass is 'brújula,' a feminine noun referring to the navigational tool that points north. For the geometry compass used to draw circles, Spanish uses a different word entirely: 'compás.' This distinction is important because the two tools share a name in English but not in Spanish.
Brújula is pronounced BROO-hoo-lah. The accent on the first syllable marks it as an esdrújula word, and the 'j' produces the guttural Spanish sound.
Usamos la brújula para encontrar el camino en el bosque.
We used the compass to find the way in the forest.
compass in Spanish: Quick Reference
Below are the most common Spanish words for compass, with pronunciation and regional usage notes.
| Spanish | English | Pronunciation | Region / Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| brújula | compass | BROO-hoo-lah | Default, widely understood |
| compás | compass | the drawing compass used in geometry |
How Native Speakers Use Brújula
Real example sentences across three contexts you'll actually run into.
Hiking
Siempre llevo una brújula cuando hago senderismo en la montaña.
I always carry a compass when I hike in the mountains.
Practical navigation while hiking.
Geometry class
Usa el compás para dibujar un círculo perfecto.
Use the compass to draw a perfect circle.
Compás for the geometry drawing tool.
Figurative use
La honestidad es mi brújula moral en la vida.
Honesty is my moral compass in life.
Brújula used metaphorically for guidance.
Avoid These Mistakes When Using Brújula
Wrong compass word
Incorrect: Necesito un compás para orientarme en el bosque.
Correct: Necesito una brújula para orientarme en el bosque.
Compás is the geometry tool for drawing circles. The navigational compass is 'brújula.'
Gender error
Incorrect: El brújula apunta al norte.
Correct: La brújula apunta al norte.
Brújula is a feminine noun and requires the article 'la,' not 'el.'
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See Brújula used by native speakers
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Common Questions About compass in Spanish
- What is the difference between brújula and compás?
- Brújula is the navigational compass that points north using a magnetic needle, while compás is the V-shaped geometry tool used to draw circles and measure distances on maps.
- Can brújula be used figuratively?
- Brújula is commonly used in metaphorical expressions like 'brújula moral' (moral compass) to describe something that guides decisions and behavior.
- How do you say 'north, south, east, west' in Spanish?
- The cardinal directions are 'norte' (north), 'sur' (south), 'este' (east), and 'oeste' (west), which are the reference points on any brújula.