trofeo
/tro-FEH-oh/
trophy
Un trofeo is a physical award, such as a gold cup, given to a winner.
📝 In Action
El capitán levantó el trofeo después del partido.
A2The captain lifted the trophy after the game.
Tengo mis trofeos de natación en una estantería.
A2I have my swimming trophies on a shelf.
💡 Grammar Points
Gender and Articles
This word is masculine. Always use 'el' or 'un' with it: 'el trofeo' (the trophy) or 'un trofeo' (a trophy).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Don't confuse with 'premio'
Mistake: "Using 'trofeo' for every kind of prize."
Correction: Use 'trofeo' specifically for the physical object (like a cup). Use 'premio' for general prizes, money, or scholarships.
⭐ Usage Tips
Sports Talk
In Spanish, the word 'copa' (cup) is often used interchangeably with 'trofeo' in sports contexts like 'La Copa del Mundo'.
Un trofeo can also be a symbolic prize or a souvenir representing a victory.
trofeo(noun)
trophy
?a symbolic prize or a hunter's souvenir
memento
?something kept as a reminder of a victory
📝 In Action
Esa cicatriz es un trofeo de su valentía.
B2That scar is a trophy of his bravery.
El cazador exhibía sus trofeos en la pared.
B2The hunter displayed his trophies on the wall.
💡 Grammar Points
Metaphorical Use
You can use this word for things that aren't literal awards to show that someone is proud of an achievement or survival.
⭐ Usage Tips
Context Matters
When used for people (e.g., 'trophy wife'), it carries the same negative/objectifying connotation as in English.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: trofeo
Question 1 of 1
Which of these is the most natural way to say 'I won a trophy'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'trofeo' used for money prizes?
Usually no. For money or general awards, 'premio' is the better word. 'Trofeo' specifically implies a physical object like a cup or medal.
How do you make 'trofeo' plural?
Just add an 's' to the end: 'trofeos'.