penal
/peh-NAHL/
criminal
The word 'penal' refers to things related to the legal system and punishments.
penal(adjective)
criminal
?related to the legal system and punishments
penal
?related to punishment
📝 In Action
El abogado se especializa en derecho penal.
B2The lawyer specializes in criminal law.
El código penal establece las consecuencias de los delitos.
C1The criminal code establishes the consequences of crimes.
💡 Grammar Points
One word for both genders
This word stays the same whether you are describing a masculine or feminine noun. You can say 'el sistema penal' or 'la ley penal' without changing the ending.
⭐ Usage Tips
When to use it
Use 'penal' when talking about laws, courts, or the justice system. If you're just talking about a person who is a 'criminal,' use the word 'criminal' instead.
In sports, 'un penal' is a penalty kick taken after a foul.
📝 In Action
Messi va a patear el penal.
A2Messi is going to take the penalty kick.
El árbitro cobró un penal en el último minuto.
B1The referee called a penalty in the last minute.
⭐ Usage Tips
Location matters!
In most of Latin America, people say 'el penal.' If you go to Spain, you will hear 'el penalti' instead.
'Penal' can also refer to a prison or correctional facility.
📝 In Action
El recluso fue trasladado al penal de máxima seguridad.
B2The inmate was transferred to the maximum-security prison.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: penal
Question 1 of 2
If a soccer commentator in Mexico screams '¡Penal!', what happened?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'penal' and 'penalti'?
They mean exactly the same thing in sports (a penalty kick). 'Penal' is used throughout Latin America, while 'penalti' is the preferred term in Spain.
Does 'penal' ever mean 'sad'?
No, but it's related to the word 'pena' (sorrow/shame). However, 'penal' only refers to legal punishment, prisons, or sports penalties.