alianza
/a-lee-AHN-sah/
alliance
When referring to a political or military pact, the Spanish word alianza means alliance.
alianza(Noun)
alliance
?political/military agreement
coalition
?group working together
,pact
?formal agreement
📝 In Action
Los dos países formaron una alianza económica para comerciar mejor.
B1The two countries formed an economic alliance to trade better.
La alianza militar se disolvió después de la guerra.
B2The military alliance dissolved after the war.
Necesitamos crear una alianza fuerte entre todos los departamentos.
B1We need to create a strong coalition among all the departments.
💡 Grammar Points
Gender Check
Remember that 'alianza' is a feminine noun, so you must use feminine words like 'la' or 'una' before it: 'La alianza es importante'.
⭐ Usage Tips
Formal Context
This meaning is often used when discussing large groups, like nations, companies, or political parties, not usually for everyday friendships.
A very common translation of alianza is a wedding ring, the jewelry symbolizing marriage.
📝 In Action
¿Dónde está mi alianza? No la encuentro.
A2Where is my wedding ring? I can't find it.
Llevan puestas sus alianzas desde el día de la boda.
B1They have been wearing their wedding bands since the wedding day.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Not a general 'ring'
Mistake: "Me compré una alianza nueva."
Correction: Me compré un anillo nuevo. ('Anillo' is the general word for any ring; 'alianza' specifically means the wedding band or a ring symbolizing a promise.)
⭐ Usage Tips
Symbol of Unity
This meaning comes directly from the idea of a marriage being a sacred 'alliance' or pact between two people.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: alianza
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'alianza' to refer to a piece of jewelry?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'alianza' and 'anillo'?
'Anillo' is the general word for any ring you wear (like a fashion ring or a class ring). 'Alianza' is reserved specifically for the wedding band or the ring that symbolizes a formal, binding commitment or pact (like marriage).
Is 'alianza' used only for serious, formal agreements?
Generally, yes. When referring to agreements between groups or nations, it implies a formal treaty or pact. For casual cooperation or friendship, words like 'colaboración' (collaboration) or 'amistad' (friendship) are more appropriate.