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How to Say "alliance" in Spanish

English → Spanish

alianza

/a-lee-AHN-sah//aˈljansa/

nounB1general
Use 'alianza' for formal agreements between countries, organizations, or groups with shared political, military, or economic goals.
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-gah/ˈli.ɣa/

nounA2general
Use 'liga' when referring to a group or association, especially in the context of sports leagues or sometimes for business associations.
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.

Formal vs. General Associations

Learners often confuse 'alianza' and 'liga' by using 'alianza' for sports teams. Remember that 'alianza' implies a more formal, strategic pact, while 'liga' is commonly used for sports competitions and less formal groups.

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