Spanish word

autopista

Pronunciation

IPA/awtoˈpista/

Meaning

  • feminine nounhighway

Example

¿Vamos por la autopista?

Shall we take the highway?

Illustration for autopista (highway)

More examples

Si entramos en la autopista, llegamos antes.

If we get on the highway, we arrive sooner.

Core concept

A limited-access highway built for uninterrupted, high-speed motor traffic.

Common phrases

  • entrar en la autopista

    get on the highway

  • salida de la autopista

    highway exit

  • conducir por la autopista

    drive on the highway

Similar words

carretera: Paved road between towns and regions, with regular junctions and variable speed limits.
autovía: Toll-free controlled-access road for high-speed motor traffic.
calle: Urban street with buildings along it and official postal addresses.
camino: Path or minor road for people or vehicles, commonly in rural areas.

Definition in Spanish

Vía amplia y señalizada pensada para el tránsito rápido de vehículos a motor, con entradas y salidas limitadas.

Word origin

It derives from the elements auto ('car') and pista ('track'), and it names roads meant specifically for rapid automotive flow.

Usage tips

  • In Spain, autovía is a similar but often non-tolled route, while autopista commonly implies a controlled-access highway that may charge peaje.

Opposites

Word lists with this word