Inklingo

How to Say "caption" in Spanish

English → Spanish

subtítulo

nounA2general
Use 'subtítulo' when the text is a translation or transcription of spoken dialogue, typically seen in movies or videos.

Examples

Me gusta ver películas con subtítulos en español para practicar.

I like to watch movies with Spanish subtitles to practice.

leyenda

leh-YEHN-dahleˈʝen̪.da

nounB2general
Use 'leyenda' for the text that explains symbols or provides context for an image, map, or graph.
A simplified rectangular key box from a map, showing various icons like a house and a tree, each paired with a space for an explanation (no actual text visible).

Examples

La leyenda del gráfico muestra que el aumento de las ventas fue del 15%.

The graph's key shows that the sales increase was 15%.

Debes consultar la leyenda del mapa para identificar los símbolos.

You must consult the map key to identify the symbols.

La leyenda al pie de la gráfica explica el significado de los colores.

The caption at the bottom of the graph explains the meaning of the colors.

Technical Use

This meaning is often found in academic texts, manuals, or when describing visual data like charts and graphs.

inscripción

nounB1formal
Use 'inscripción' for text that is engraved or written as a permanent mark on an object, like a plaque or jewelry.

Examples

La tumba tenía una inscripción simple en memoria del difunto.

The tomb had a simple inscription in memory of the deceased.

Confusing image text with movie text

Learners often confuse 'leyenda' (for image keys) with 'subtítulo' (for movie translations). Remember that 'subtítulo' is specifically for dialogue translation, while 'leyenda' explains visual elements or data.

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.