How to Say "convict" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “convict” is “condenado” — use 'condenado' when referring to any person who has been found guilty of a crime and is serving a sentence..
English → Spanish
condenado
/kon-deh-NAH-doh//kon.deˈna.ðo/
nounB1general
Use 'condenado' when referring to any person who has been found guilty of a crime and is serving a sentence.
Examples
El condenado intentó escapar de la cárcel.
The convict tried to escape from the jail.
Los condenados tienen derecho a un juicio justo.
Sentenced individuals have the right to a fair trial.
Adjective to Noun
Many Spanish adjectives that describe a person can easily become nouns simply by adding the article 'el' or 'la.' Here, 'el condenado' means 'the sentenced one.'
forzado
/for-SAH-doh//forˈθaðo/
nounC2historical/specific
Use 'forzado' specifically for a prisoner who has been sentenced to perform forced labor, often in harsh conditions.
Examples
El forzado cumplía su condena en las minas.
The convict was serving his sentence in the mines.
General vs. Specific Meaning
Learners often use 'forzado' when 'condenado' is more appropriate. Remember that 'condenado' is the broad term for any convicted person, while 'forzado' is a very specific term for someone sentenced to hard labor.
Related Translations
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