violación
“violación” means “rape” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
rape, sexual assault
📝 In Action
La policía ha abierto una investigación sobre la violación.
B2The police have opened an investigation into the sexual assault (rape).
Es esencial crear conciencia para prevenir la violación de mujeres y niñas.
C1It is essential to raise awareness to prevent the rape of women and girls.
violation
Also: breach, infringement
📝 In Action
La violación de los derechos humanos es un problema global.
B2The violation of human rights is a global problem.
El equipo fue penalizado por una violación de las reglas de juego.
C1The team was penalized for a violation of the rules of the game.
Hubo una violación de seguridad en el sistema informático.
C1There was a security breach in the computer system.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: violación
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'violación' in the context of breaking a formal agreement?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes directly from the Latin *violatio*, which meant 'injury' or 'outrage.' This root is based on the verb *violare*, meaning 'to treat with violence, dishonor, or break (a law or treaty).' The concept has always involved forcefully breaking a sacred or protected boundary.
First recorded: 13th century (in similar forms)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'violación' the same as 'infracción'?
They are related, but 'violación' is generally much more serious. 'Infracción' is usually used for minor offenses, like a parking ticket or a small fine. 'Violación' is reserved for serious breaches of law, rights (like human rights), or the grave meaning of sexual assault.
How do I know if 'violación' is about sexual assault or breaking a rule?
Context is everything! If the sentence mentions a law, a contract, a treaty, or a border, it usually means 'breach' or 'infringement.' If the sentence mentions a person, a suspect, or a victim, it almost always refers to 'sexual assault' or 'rape'.