alianza
“alianza” means “alliance” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
alliance
Also: coalition, pact
📝 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.
wedding ring
Also: wedding band
📝 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.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: alianza
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'alianza' to refer to a piece of jewelry?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Late Latin word *alligantia*, which means 'to bind or connect'. This root explains both meanings: connecting countries (alliance) and connecting two people (a wedding ring).
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
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.