Spanish word

asignatura

Pronunciation

IPA/asiɣnaˈtuɾa/

Meaning

  • feminine nounsubject

Example

Mi asignatura favorita es matemáticas.

My favorite subject is math.

Illustration for asignatura (subject)

More examples

Voy a cambiar de asignatura este semestre.

I'm going to change subjects this semester.

Core concept

A teaching unit in school or university with defined objectives and content.

Common phrases

  • asignatura optativa

    elective subject

  • cambiar de asignatura

    change subjects

Similar words

materia: A field of study taught in school that groups related topics and curricula.
clase: A single classroom session or lesson that covers part of a subject.
curso: A series of lessons taught over a set period that form a complete course.
disciplina: An academic or professional field defined by its methods and subject matter.

Definition in Spanish

Unidad de enseñanza impartida en centros educativos que reúne contenidos y objetivos concretos.

Word origin

From the verb asignar 'to assign' plus the suffix -tura, originally meaning 'that which is assigned' and referring to a distinct area of instruction.

Usage tips

  • A common false friend for English speakers is assignment; in Spanish asignatura means a subject or course while assignment is usually tarea or trabajo escolar.

Other meanings

  • coursenoun

Related words

Word lists with this word