Inklingo

How to Say "anthem" in Spanish

English → Spanish

himno

EEM-noˈimno

nounA2formal
Use 'himno' when referring to the formal, official song of a country, an organization, or a cause, especially one that is sung during ceremonies or important events.
A group of diverse people standing together with hands over their hearts, looking up at a waving national flag.

Examples

El himno nacional sonó mientras la bandera subía.

The national anthem played as the flag was raised.

Los jugadores cantaron el himno nacional antes del partido.

The players sang the national anthem before the game.

Cada escuela tiene su propio himno.

Every school has its own anthem.

El himno de la alegría es famoso en todo el mundo.

The 'Ode to Joy' (Anthem of Joy) is famous all over the world.

The Silent H

Just like most Spanish words starting with 'H', the 'H' in 'himno' is completely silent. Start the sound directly with the 'i'.

Gender Trap

Even though many songs (canciones) are feminine, 'himno' is masculine. Always use 'el' or 'un'.

Gender confusion

Mistake: “La himno nacional.”

Correction: El himno nacional. Remember that nouns ending in '-o' are almost always masculine.

canción

nounA1general
Use 'canción' when referring to a song in a general sense, such as a favorite song, a pop song, or any piece of music with lyrics, unless it's a formal national or organizational anthem.

Examples

Esa es mi canción favorita para cantar en la ducha.

That is my favorite song to sing in the shower.

Choosing between 'himno' and 'canción'

Learners often mistakenly use 'canción' for national anthems. Remember that 'himno' is the specific word for formal, representative songs like those of countries or sports teams, while 'canción' is a broader term for any song.

Related Translations

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