formato
nounCEFR B2
What does “formato” mean in English?
format
format (the structure or layout in which content is presented; formato digital/impreso; cambiar el formato)
Example sentences
El cambio de formato del examen de acceso ha generado controversia entre el profesorado.
The change in format of the entrance exam has generated controversy among teaching staff.
El informe se distribuyó en formato digital para reducir el impacto medioambiental de su difusión.
The report was distributed in digital format to reduce the environmental impact of its distribution.
El nuevo formato de la cumbre prevé sesiones de trabajo en grupos reducidos en lugar de grandes plenarias.
The new summit format provides for working sessions in small groups instead of large plenary meetings.
How to use it
El formato (noun, masculine) means 'format' — the structure, size, or layout of something (a document, event, exam, file). At B2 it is a near-cognate used almost identically to English 'format'. Core collocations: el formato del examen/evento/programa; cambiar el formato; formato digital/impreso; en formato PDF/Word; formato de entrevista. The verb formatear means to format a device (computing). Distinguish from estructura (structure — more about content organisation) and modalidad (modality — type/mode, more abstract).
Common mistake
Formato is a near-cognate — use it as you would English 'format'. Don't confuse with estructura (internal organisation of content) or modalidad (type/mode of something). 'File format' = formato de archivo; 'A4 format' = formato A4.