voto
“voto” means “vote” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
vote, ballot
Also: suffrage, poll
📝 In Action
Mi voto es secreto, nadie sabrá a quién elegí.
A2My vote is secret; no one will know who I chose.
El presidente ganó por un solo voto de diferencia.
B1The president won by only one vote difference.
Todos los miembros tienen derecho a emitir un voto en la reunión.
B2All members have the right to cast a vote in the meeting.
vow
Also: pledge, oath
📝 In Action
Los monjes hicieron un voto de pobreza y humildad.
B2The monks took a vow of poverty and humility.
Ella cumplió su voto de visitar la iglesia todos los domingos.
C1She fulfilled her vow to visit the church every Sunday.
Romper un voto es considerado una falta grave.
B2Breaking a vow is considered a serious offense.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: voto
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'voto' in the sense of a solemn promise?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word 'voto' comes directly from the Latin word *votum*, which originally meant 'a promise made to a god' or 'a wish.' This explains why 'voto' means both a formal election choice and a solemn, serious pledge.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'voto' only used for political elections?
No. While it's most common in political elections, 'voto' is used anytime a group makes a formal decision, such as voting in a club meeting, a committee, or a board of directors. It is also used for religious vows.
What is the difference between 'voto' and 'votación'?
'Voto' (masculine) is the single choice or ballot you cast. 'Votación' (feminine) refers to the entire process of voting or the election event itself.