Inklingo

How to Say "conviction" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “conviction” is “condena” — use 'condena' when referring to a legal judgment where someone is found guilty and receives a punishment, like a prison sentence.

English → Spanish

condena

kon-DEH-nahkonˈde.na

nounB1formal
Use 'condena' when referring to a legal judgment where someone is found guilty and receives a punishment, like a prison sentence.
A close-up view of a large wooden judge's gavel resting on a round wooden sound block, symbolizing a final judicial decision.

Examples

La corte dictó una condena de diez años de prisión.

The court handed down a sentence of ten years in prison.

Su condena por fraude arruinó su carrera.

His conviction for fraud ruined his career.

El presidente expresó su condena por los actos de violencia.

The president expressed his condemnation of the acts of violence.

Gender and Articles

Since 'condena' is feminine, always use 'la' before it, or 'una' if you mean 'a sentence' (e.g., 'la condena', 'una condena').

Confusing 'Condena' and 'Sentencia'

Mistake: “Using 'sentencia' only for the punishment length.”

Correction: 'Sentencia' usually refers to the judge's ruling or verdict, while 'condena' refers specifically to the punishment imposed.

convicción

nounB2
Choose 'convicción' to express a deep, unwavering belief or certainty about something, often a personal principle or a strong opinion you hold firmly.

Examples

Tengo la convicción de que todo saldrá bien.

I have the conviction that everything will turn out well.

creencia

kre-EHN-syahkɾeˈenθja

nounB1
Use 'creencia' for a belief that is widely held or a personal opinion, which might not be as deeply felt or as strongly held as a 'convicción'.
A small child planting a tiny seed in the soil with a look of hope and confidence.

Examples

Es una creencia popular que las zanahorias mejoran la vista.

It is a popular belief that carrots improve your eyesight.

Mi creencia es que la educación es la clave del éxito.

My belief is that education is the key to success.

Debemos respetar las creencias de los demás.

We must respect the beliefs of others.

Feminine Noun

This word is feminine. Always use feminine markers like 'la creencia' or 'una creencia'.

Plural Form

To talk about more than one, simply add an 's' to make 'creencias'. This is very common when talking about religion or culture.

Confusing 'belief' with 'believe'

Mistake: “Yo creencia que...”

Correction: Use the action word 'creer' (I believe = Yo creo). Use 'creencia' only as the name of the idea (The belief = La creencia).

sentimiento

sen-tee-MYEN-tohsen.tiˈmjen.to

nounB2
Employ 'sentimiento' when referring to a general atmosphere, a prevailing opinion, or a deeply held principle that influences a group's outlook or mood.
A simple illustration showing three diverse figures standing together, all raising their thumbs up in unison, symbolizing a shared general attitude.

Examples

El sentimiento general en la sala era de optimismo.

The general sentiment in the room was one of optimism.

Con un sentimiento patriótico, el presidente dio su discurso.

With a patriotic conviction, the president gave his speech.

Formal Usage

In this context, 'sentimiento' often refers to a collective or abstract belief, similar to the English word 'sentiment' when discussing public opinion.

Belief vs. Legal Finding

The most common mistake is confusing 'condena' (legal guilt/sentence) with 'convicción' or 'creencia' (personal or general belief). Remember, 'condena' is specifically for legal contexts, while 'convicción' and 'creencia' refer to states of mind.

Related Translations

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