Interruptor is a noun.
/inteˈɾuptoɾ/
In Spanish, interruptor refers primarily to a device used to break the circuit of an electrical circuit, allowing control over the flow of electric current. It is commonly used in both written and oral forms, especially in technical discussions, DIY contexts, and everyday conversations about electricity. The frequency of usage is moderate to high due to its relevance in everyday language concerning home and office environments.
El interruptor de la luz está roto y necesita ser reemplazado.
The light switch is broken and needs to be replaced.
Por favor, apaga el interruptor antes de salir de la habitación.
Please turn off the switch before leaving the room.
El electricista instaló un nuevo interruptor para el ventilador.
The electrician installed a new switch for the fan.
While interruptor is primarily used in a literal sense related to electrical contexts, it does not have a wealth of idiomatic expressions. However, it may appear in some metaphorical uses related to starting or stopping actions:
Hacer un interruptor en su vida.
To make a switch in your life.
Meaning: To change significant aspects of one’s lifestyle.
Ser un interruptor emocional.
To be an emotional switch.
Meaning: To change moods suddenly or influence others’ emotions.
Usar el interruptor del progreso.
To use the switch for progress.
Meaning: To take action that leads to advancement.
The word interruptor comes from the Latin root "interrumpere," which means "to break in," composed of inter- (between, among) and rumpere (to break). The modern term emerged in Spanish as the technology for electrical switches developed.
Synonyms: - Conmutador (commonly used for "switch" in some contexts) - Cortacircuito (circuit breaker)
Antonyms: - Conductor (conductor; as it implies continuity of flow instead of interruption) - Continuidad (continuity)
The term interruptor is predominantly used in contexts related to electricity, making it essential in both daily communication and technical discussions.