elemento
nounCEFR B2
What does “elemento” mean in English?
element, factor
element, factor (a constituent part of a whole system or argument; elemento fundamental/clave)
Example sentences
La confianza mutua es un elemento fundamental en cualquier relación laboral sostenible a largo plazo.
Mutual trust is a fundamental element in any sustainable long-term working relationship.
El plan de crisis incorpora todos los elementos necesarios para una respuesta coordinada ante un ciberataque.
The crisis plan incorporates all the necessary elements for a coordinated response to a cyberattack.
Hay un elemento de riesgo inevitable en cualquier decisión de inversión a largo plazo.
There is an unavoidable element of risk in any long-term investment decision.
How to use it
El elemento (noun, masculine) means 'element, component, factor' — a constituent part of a whole. At B2 it is ubiquitous in analytical, academic, and formal discourse. Core collocations: elemento fundamental/clave/esencial; elementos de un sistema/argumento/plan; los cuatro elementos (fire, water, earth, air); elemento perturbador (disruptive element). It is almost synonymous with factor at B2, though elemento stresses membership in a set, while factor stresses causal role. The plural elementos often = 'the basics' (los elementos del español).
Common mistake
English speakers may over-use componente as a calque from 'component' — elemento is the more versatile B2 term. Don't confuse with factor (causal role) or aspecto (perspective/viewpoint). The phrase elemento perturbador (disruptive element) is a frequent fixed expression in formal writing.