nuclear
adjectiveCEFR B2
What does “nuclear” mean in English?
nuclear — relating to the nucleus of an atom; also: relating to nuclear weapons or energy
nuclear — relating to the nucleus of an atom; also: relating to nuclear weapons or energy (energía nuclear, arma nuclear)
Example sentences
El debate sobre la energía nuclear enfrenta a quienes la ven como necesaria para la transición energética y quienes temen sus riesgos.
The debate about nuclear energy pits those who see it as necessary for the energy transition against those who fear its risks.
La familia nuclear —padre, madre e hijos— ha dejado de ser el modelo predominante en muchas sociedades occidentales.
The nuclear family — father, mother and children — has ceased to be the predominant model in many Western societies.
How to use it
Nuclear means 'nuclear' — relating to the nucleus of an atom, to nuclear weapons, or to nuclear energy. In figurative use, also: central/core (la familia nuclear = the nuclear/immediate family). Common collocations: energía nuclear, central nuclear, arma nuclear, familia nuclear, opción nuclear. Ser: always ser.
Common mistake
Nuclear in la familia nuclear does not mean 'nuclear' in the explosive sense — it refers to the core/nucleus of the family unit. This figurative/sociological use surprises many English speakers.