testimonio
/tes-ti-MOH-nio/
testimony
The first meaning of 'testimonio' is testimony or a witness account.
testimonio(noun)
testimony
?statement, witness account
account
?personal story
,statement
?formal declaration
📝 In Action
El testigo dio su testimonio ante el juez después del accidente.
B1The witness gave his testimony before the judge after the accident.
Su vida es un testimonio de que todo es posible con esfuerzo.
B2His life is a testament (or testimony) that everything is possible with effort.
El sacerdote compartió un testimonio de fe con la congregación.
B1The priest shared a testimony of faith with the congregation.
💡 Grammar Points
Always Masculine
Since 'testimonio' ends in '-o', it is a masculine word. Always use 'el' or 'un' before it: 'el testimonio'.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Confusing Gender
Mistake: "La testimonio"
Correction: El testimonio. Even though it relates to 'la persona' (the person), the word itself is masculine.
⭐ Usage Tips
Connecting to the Verb
Remember the related verb is 'testificar,' meaning 'to testify.' 'Testimonio' is the statement itself.
The second meaning of 'testimonio' is evidence or proof.
testimonio(noun)
evidence
?proof, demonstration
certified copy
?legal document, affidavit
,proof
?tangible verification
📝 In Action
Los restos arqueológicos son un testimonio de la antigua civilización.
C1The archaeological remains are evidence (or proof) of the ancient civilization.
Necesitas un testimonio notarial para validar la hipoteca.
B2You need a notarized document (certified copy) to validate the mortgage.
💡 Grammar Points
Proof vs. Document
In many Spanish-speaking countries, 'testimonio' in a legal office means 'a certified, official copy of a public deed,' like a title or will. It's more specific than just 'documento'.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: testimonio
Question 1 of 2
¿Cuál es la mejor traducción de 'El objeto es un testimonio de la guerra'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'testimonio' only used in legal situations?
No. While it's very common in courtrooms, you can also use it to talk about personal, emotional, or religious accounts ('un testimonio de fe') or to describe an object that serves as historical proof ('un testimonio histórico').
How is 'testimonio' different from 'prueba'?
'Prueba' is a very general word for 'proof' or 'test.' 'Testimonio' is more specific, often referring to verbal evidence given by a person, or a specific type of notarized legal document.