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How to Say "alliance" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “alliance” is “alianza” — use 'alianza' for a general political or military agreement between countries or groups, often for mutual benefit.

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alianza

a-lee-AHN-sahaˈljansa

nounB1general
Use 'alianza' for a general political or military agreement between countries or groups, often for mutual benefit.
Two stylized figures, one wearing blue and one wearing red, shaking hands firmly in the center to symbolize a political agreement.

Examples

Los dos países formaron una alianza económica para comerciar mejor.

The two countries formed an economic alliance to trade better.

La alianza militar se disolvió después de la guerra.

The military alliance dissolved after the war.

Necesitamos crear una alianza fuerte entre todos los departamentos.

We need to create a strong coalition among all the departments.

Gender Check

Remember that 'alianza' is a feminine noun, so you must use feminine words like 'la' or 'una' before it: 'La alianza es importante'.

liga

LEE-gahˈli.ɣa

nounA2informal/sports
Choose 'liga' when referring to an association or league, particularly in sports or sometimes for informal business or political groups.
A shiny, golden championship trophy standing on a pedestal, surrounded by several small, colorful team flags representing a sports league.

Examples

Mi equipo favorito ganó la liga el año pasado.

My favorite team won the league last year.

Los tres países formaron una liga defensiva.

The three countries formed a defensive alliance.

Gender Reminder

Even though 'liga' ends in -a, remember it refers to a group or organization, acting as a simple feminine noun.

coalición

nounB2formal/political/military
Use 'coalición' for a union formed for a specific strategic purpose, most commonly in politics or military contexts, often temporary.

Examples

Tres partidos políticos formaron una coalición para ganar las elecciones.

Three political parties formed a coalition to win the elections.

confederación

nounB2formal/organizational
Opt for 'confederación' when describing a formal agreement or union of states, organizations, or groups that retain some autonomy.

Examples

La confederación de estudiantes apoya el nuevo plan.

The student confederation supports the new plan.

Alliance vs. Coalition vs. League

Learners often confuse 'alianza' and 'coalición'. Remember 'alianza' is a more general term for an agreement, while 'coalición' implies a more specific, often temporary, strategic union, especially in politics. 'Liga' is typically for sports or less formal associations.

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