sobornar
“sobornar” means “to bribe” in Spanish (to offer money or favors in exchange for an illegal or unethical act).
to bribe
Also: to buy off
📝 In Action
Intentó sobornar al guardia para entrar al concierto sin entrada.
B1He tried to bribe the guard to enter the concert without a ticket.
No puedes sobornar a tus hijos con dulces para que se porten bien.
A2You can't bribe your children with candy so they behave.
La empresa fue acusada de sobornar a varios políticos.
B2The company was accused of bribing several politicians.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "sobornar" in Spanish:
to bribe→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: sobornar
Question 1 of 3
Which of these is the correct way to say 'He bribes the judge'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'subornare', which combined 'sub' (under/secretly) and 'ornare' (to equip or provide). It originally meant to provide someone with what they need to perform a secret, often bad, task.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'sobornar' only used for illegal crimes?
While its primary meaning is illegal, it is frequently used jokingly at home, like bribing a dog with a treat to sit down.
Is it a regular verb?
Yes! It follows the standard pattern for all verbs ending in -ar, making it very easy to conjugate.
What is the difference between 'sobornar' and 'corromper'?
'Sobornar' is the specific act of giving the bribe. 'Corromper' (to corrupt) is the broader result—making someone lose their integrity.