Doctor
The required feminine form for a female doctor. Use 'doctora' when referring to or addressing a woman.
A slightly more formal or technical term for a medical doctor. 'Médico' is for a man, 'médica' for a woman.
I need a doctor, please.
The (female) doctor speaks English.
Is there a doctor in the hotel?
My sister is a doctor in a big hospital.
The words 'doctor'/'doctora' and 'médico'/'médica' are universally understood in all Spanish-speaking countries. 'Doctor'/'doctora' is the most common way to address a doctor directly.
'Doctor'/'doctora' is the standard term used both when talking about and talking to a doctor. It is considered polite.
Usage is identical to Mexico. 'Doctor'/'doctora' is the default and respectful term.
While 'doctor'/'doctora' is used for medical doctors, be aware that it's also a common title of respect for lawyers ('abogados'). The context usually makes the meaning clear.
Both 'doctor'/'doctora' and 'médico'/'médica' are very common and used interchangeably. You will hear both frequently.
Using 'doctor' for a female doctor. — Spanish nouns have gender. Always use 'doctora' for a female doctor. Incorrect: 'La doctor es de Cuba.' Correct: 'La doctora es de Cuba.'
Forgetting the article ('un'/'una' or 'el'/'la'). — In Spanish, you usually need an article before a profession when describing what you need or who someone is. Incorrect: 'Busco doctor.' Correct: 'Busco un doctor.' (I'm looking for a doctor.)
Pronouncing it like the English word 'doctor'. — The Spanish pronunciation is 'dok-TOHR', with the stress on the last syllable. The final 'r' is a clear, tapped sound, not a soft English 'er'.
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