Inklingo

How to Say "crux" in Spanish

English → Spanish

clave

KLAH-veh/ˈklaβe/

nounB1general
Use 'clave' when referring to the most important or decisive element needed to understand or solve something.
A brass key turning in a simple, oversized keyhole, representing the solution to a problem.

Examples

La clave del éxito en este proyecto es la comunicación efectiva.

The key to success in this project is effective communication.

La clave para resolver este problema es la paciencia.

The key to solving this problem is patience.

Su testimonio fue la clave del caso.

His testimony was the key to the case.

cruz

/krooz//kɾuθ/

nounA1general
Use 'cruz' cautiously for 'crux' to mean a main point or the most significant aspect, but be aware it's much less common than 'clave' for this meaning and can be confused with its primary meanings of 'cross' (shape) or 'cross' (religious symbol).
A simple, stylized red cross shape centered on a plain background.

Examples

El punto crucial de su argumento fue la falta de evidencia.

The crucial point of his argument was the lack of evidence.

Dibujó una cruz en el mapa para marcar el tesoro.

He drew a cross on the map to mark the treasure.

El símbolo de la Cruz Roja es reconocido mundialmente.

The Red Cross symbol is recognized worldwide.

Vimos una cruz de piedra antigua en la cima de la colina.

We saw an ancient stone cross on the top of the hill.

Gender Reminder

Even though 'cruz' ends in 'z' and some words ending in 'z' are masculine, 'cruz' is always feminine. Remember to use 'la cruz' or 'una cruz'.

Confusing 'clave' and 'cruz'

Learners often mistakenly use 'cruz' for the primary meaning of 'crux' (the essential point). While 'cruz' can sometimes imply a central point, 'clave' is the standard and unambiguous translation for the decisive or key element of a problem, situation, or argument.

Related Translations

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