Inklingo

How to Say "aforementioned" in Spanish

English → Spanish

citado

see-TAH-dohsiˈtaðo

adjectiveB2general
Use 'citado' when referring to something or someone that was mentioned earlier in the same text, like a source or a previously discussed idea.
A stack of colorful books with one book open, showing a finger pointing to a specific line.

Examples

El autor citado anteriormente explica bien el problema.

The previously cited author explains the problem well.

En la citada fecha, no hubo ningún incidente.

On the aforementioned date, there were no incidents.

Las leyes citadas son de cumplimiento obligatorio.

The cited laws are mandatory to follow.

Positioning

When it means 'aforementioned,' you can place it before the noun ('la citada ley') for a very formal, literary feel.

Gender Agreement in Literature

Mistake: “El párrafo citada...”

Correction: El párrafo citado. Always ensure the ending matches the noun, even in complex formal sentences.

dicho

DEE-chohˈdi.t͡ʃo

adjectiveB2formal
Use 'dicho' in more formal writing, especially legal or administrative documents, to refer to a specific item or statement already mentioned.
A close-up shot of an adult hand pointing definitively at a specific, bright red scroll lying on a mahogany desk, distinguishing it as the 'aforementioned' item.

Examples

Dicho documento debe ser firmado por el gerente.

The said document must be signed by the manager.

Una vez aprobada dicha ley, entra en vigor inmediatamente.

Once the aforementioned law is approved, it takes effect immediately.

La persona en dicha fotografía es mi abuelo.

The person in the photo in question is my grandfather.

Changes to Match the Noun

As an adjective, 'dicho' must match the gender and number of the thing it describes. You'll see 'dicha ley' for a feminine noun, or 'dichos problemas' for a masculine plural noun.

Choosing between 'citado' and 'dicho'

Learners often confuse 'citado' and 'dicho' because both refer to something mentioned before. Remember that 'citado' is more common in general texts, while 'dicho' is reserved for formal, often legal or official, contexts.

Related Translations

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.