Inklingo

How to Say "cannabis" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “cannabis” is “marihuana” — use 'marihuana' when referring to the plant itself, its medicinal applications, or in a more formal or botanical context..

English → Spanish

marihuana

mah-ree-WHAH-nah/ma.ɾiˈwa.na/

nounB1general
Use 'marihuana' when referring to the plant itself, its medicinal applications, or in a more formal or botanical context.
A brightly colored illustration of a single, iconic green cannabis leaf with seven points.

Examples

La producción de marihuana medicinal está regulada por el gobierno.

The production of medical marijuana is regulated by the government.

La marihuana medicinal se usa para tratar el dolor crónico.

Medical marijuana is used to treat chronic pain.

El cultivo de marihuana es legal en algunos estados.

The cultivation of cannabis is legal in some states.

Prefiero no hablar de marihuana en la oficina.

I prefer not to talk about marijuana in the office.

Always Feminine

Even though it refers to a plant or substance, 'marihuana' is always a feminine noun. Always use 'la' or 'una' before it.

Spelling Confusion

Mistake: “Writing 'marijuana' (with a 'j').”

Correction: The most common and accepted spelling in standard Spanish is 'marihuana' (with an 'h'), even though the 'j' spelling is standard in English.

maria

MAH-ree-ah/ˈmaɾja/

nounB2informal
Use 'maria' as a more informal, slang term for the drug or the smell of cannabis, common in casual conversation.
A brightly colored illustration of a single green cannabis leaf with seven pointed lobes.

Examples

Se sentía el olor a maria cerca del parque.

The smell of weed could be felt near the park.

El olor a maria era muy fuerte en la calle.

The smell of weed was very strong on the street.

Dicen que venden buena maria en ese barrio.

They say they sell good marijuana in that neighborhood.

Always Feminine

Even though this word is slang, it is treated as a feminine noun, so you use 'la' before it: 'la maria'.

Confusing Register

Mistake: “Using 'maria' in formal or official contexts.”

Correction: Use 'marihuana' or 'cannabis' instead when speaking with police, doctors, or in official reports, as 'maria' is too casual.

Slang vs. Formal Usage

The most common mistake is using the informal slang term 'maria' in situations where a more neutral or formal term like 'marihuana' is appropriate. While both refer to cannabis, 'marihuana' is generally safer for broader contexts, especially when discussing medicinal or legal aspects.

Related Translations

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