Inklingo

How to Say "cops" in Spanish

English → Spanish

policías

nounA1informal/slang
Use 'policías' for the most general and common way to refer to police officers in everyday conversation, suitable for most informal and neutral contexts.

Examples

Los policías nos ayudaron a encontrar la dirección.

The police officers helped us find the address.

agentes

ah-HEN-tehsaˈxentes

nounB1informal
Use 'agentes' when referring to police officers in a slightly more formal or official capacity, often implying a specific role or department.
A friendly police officer wearing a blue uniform and hat, standing at attention.

Examples

Los agentes de policía cerraron la calle por el accidente.

The police officers closed the street due to the accident.

Los agentes de tránsito controlan el tráfico en la ciudad.

The traffic officers control the traffic in the city.

Fueron detenidos por los agentes de aduanas en el aeropuerto.

They were detained by customs agents at the airport.

The Plural Form

Since 'agente' ends in a vowel, you form the plural simply by adding '-s', resulting in 'agentes'.

General vs. Specific Roles

Learners often use 'agentes' too broadly. Remember that 'policías' is the most common, everyday term. Reserve 'agentes' for when you want to sound slightly more formal or emphasize their role as officers of the law.

Related Translations

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