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How to Say "chant" in Spanish

English → Spanish

canto

/KAN-toh//ˈkanto/

nounA1general
Use 'canto' for general singing, rhythmic sounds, or even the song of a bird, not specifically religious chanting.
A single, large, stylized musical eighth note floating, with colorful, wavy lines radiating outward, representing sound.

Examples

El canto gregoriano es una forma de música litúrgica.

Gregorian chant is a form of liturgical music.

El canto del pájaro es muy bonito.

The bird's song is very beautiful.

Estudió la técnica del canto lírico durante años.

She studied the technique of opera singing for years.

Gender Rule

Even though this word ends in '-o', remember that the related word for 'song' (canción) is feminine, but 'canto' (the act of singing or a specific chant) is masculine.

alabado

/ah-lah-BAH-doh//alaˈβaðo/

nounC2religious
Use 'alabado' exclusively for a rhythmic, often religious, recitation or hymn of praise, typically sung in a group setting.
A person in a robe singing with their hands raised in a peaceful setting.

Examples

Los peregrinos compartieron un alabado mientras caminaban.

The pilgrims shared a hymn of praise as they walked.

El pueblo entonó un alabado tradicional durante la procesión.

The town sang a traditional hymn of praise during the procession.

Canto vs. Alabado

Learners often mistakenly use 'canto' for religious chanting. Remember that 'canto' is general singing or sound, while 'alabado' specifically refers to a religious recitation or hymn of praise.

Related Translations

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