How to Say "Criminal" in Spanish: A Comprehensive Guide
When traveling to a Spanish-speaking country or interacting with Spanish speakers, it’s essential to know how to communicate effectively. One common term that you may need to use is "criminal." In this article, we’ll explore the different ways to say "criminal" in Spanish, as well as provide some context and nuances to help you use the term correctly.
Direct Answer: How to Say "Criminal" in Spanish?
The most common way to say "criminal" in Spanish is delincuente. However, there are other forms and contexts in which you may need to use the term, which we’ll discuss below.
Forms of "Criminal" in Spanish
| Form | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Delincuente | Common criminal, offender |
| Criminal | Criminal, lawbreaker (formal or formal tone) |
| Delito | Crime, offense |
| Reo | Accused person, defendant |
| Presunto culpable | Presumed guilty |
Using "Criminal" in Spanish
When using the term "criminal" in Spanish, it’s essential to consider the context and the formality of the situation. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Formal tone: In formal situations, such as in writing or in official documents, you can use the term criminal. For example: "El criminal fue condenado a prisión" (The criminal was sentenced to prison).
- Informal tone: In informal situations, such as in conversation with friends or in casual writing, you can use delincuente. For example: "El delincuente escapó de la policía" (The criminal escaped from the police).
- Context: Consider the context in which you’re using the term. For example, if you’re talking about a specific crime or offense, you may use delito. For example: "El delito de robo es un crimen grave" (The crime of theft is a serious offense).
Other Related Terms
Here are some other related terms that you may find useful:
- Policía (police)
- Justicia (justice)
- Crimen (crime)
- Prisión (prison)
- Sentencia (sentence)
Common Phrases and Sentences
Here are some common phrases and sentences that you can use when talking about crime and criminals in Spanish:
- ¿Qué delito cometió? (What crime did they commit?)
- ¿Por qué fue condenado? (Why were they sentenced?)
- La policía está investigando el delito (The police are investigating the crime)
- El reo fue absuelto (The accused person was acquitted)
Conclusion
In conclusion, saying "criminal" in Spanish is not a straightforward task, as there are different forms and contexts to consider. By using the terms and phrases outlined in this article, you’ll be better equipped to communicate effectively when discussing crime and criminals in Spanish. Remember to consider the formality of the situation, the context, and the specific term you’re using. With practice and patience, you’ll become more confident in your ability to use the term "criminal" in Spanish.
