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turismo

tourism

noun too-REES-moh Less Common

Origin: From French tourisme, ultimately from English tour.

Usage Note

Turismo refers both to the activity of tourism and, in Spain, specifically to a private car (un turismo as opposed to a camión or furgoneta). The car sense is unique to Spain and can trip up learners: alquilar un turismo means to rent a car, not to rent a tourist experience. Turista is the person; turístico the adjective. Sector turístico is a key phrase in economic contexts.

Examples

"El turismo es una industria importante en España."

Natural Translation

Tourism is an important industry in Spain.

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