How to Say "arrested" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “arrested” is “detuvo” — use this when referring to the action of the police or authorities legally apprehending someone. It focuses on the act of stopping and taking someone into custody..
detuvo
/deh-TOO-voh//deˈtuβo/
Examples
La policía detuvo al sospechoso inmediatamente después del robo.
The police detained the suspect immediately after the robbery.
El oficial lo detuvo para interrogarlo.
The officer arrested him for questioning.
Formal Context
In this meaning, 'detuvo' often implies an official or legal action, usually carried out by law enforcement or border patrol.
arrestado
/a-rres-TA-do//a.resˈta.ðo/
Examples
El hombre arrestado fue trasladado a la comisaría.
The arrested man was transferred to the police station.
Los arrestados tienen derecho a una llamada telefónica.
The detainees have the right to one phone call.
El oficial ha arrestado al ladrón.
The officer has arrested the thief.
Ella fue arrestada por conducir sin licencia.
She was arrested for driving without a license.
Gender and Number Match
When used as an adjective, 'arrestado' must match the person or people it describes. For a woman, you must say 'arrestada'; for multiple women, 'arrestadas'.
Using 'Haber' vs. 'Ser'
Use the verb 'haber' (like 'he,' 'ha,' 'han') with 'arrestado' to talk about actions that have been completed: 'Han arrestado al líder' (They have arrested the leader). Use 'ser' (like 'fue,' 'es') to describe who received the action (the passive voice): 'Ella fue arrestada'.
Using 'Estar' for Action
Mistake: “El ladrón está arrestado.”
Correction: Use 'ser' (fue/era arrestado) to describe the action of being arrested. 'Estar arrestado' is usually reserved for describing the ongoing state of being in custody.
arrestado
Examples
El oficial ha arrestado al ladrón.
The officer has arrested the thief.
Verb vs. Adjective Confusion
Related Translations
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