How to Say "correctional" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “correctional” is “penitenciario” — B2 level.
Examples
El sistema penitenciario busca la reinserción de los presos.
The prison system seeks the reintegration of inmates.
Trabaja como guardia en un centro penitenciario.
He works as a guard in a correctional facility.
La reforma penitenciaria fue aprobada por el gobierno.
The prison reform was approved by the government.
Matching Gender
Remember that this word must match the gender of the object it describes. Use 'penitenciario' for masculine words like 'centro' and 'penitenciaria' for feminine words like 'reforma'.
Word Position
In Spanish, this descriptive word almost always comes after the noun. Say 'centro penitenciario,' not 'penitenciario centro'.
Penal vs. Penitenciario
Mistake: “Using 'penitenciario' to talk about crimes or the penal code.”
Correction: Use 'penal' for laws and crimes (e.g., 'Código Penal') and 'penitenciario' specifically for the prison buildings or the life inside them.
Related Translations
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