Inklingo

How to Say "culture" in Spanish

English → Spanish

cultura

kool-TOO-rah/kulˈtuɾa/

nounA2general
Use 'cultura' when referring to the customs, arts, social institutions, and achievements of a particular nation, people, or group.
A colorful storybook illustration showing three distinct cultural objects arranged together: a stylized wooden mask with geometric patterns, a simple stringed instrument resembling a lute, and a painted ceramic jar.

Examples

La cultura española es muy rica en tradiciones.

Spanish culture is very rich in traditions.

El museo de arte moderno promueve la cultura.

The modern art museum promotes culture.

Always Feminine

Even though 'cultura' ends in '-a', remember that almost all words ending in '-tura' are feminine, so you always use 'la' or 'una' with it.

Using the wrong article

Mistake: “El cultura”

Correction: La cultura. The word is feminine, so use the feminine article 'la'.

civilización

nounB1formal/academic
Use 'civilización' when discussing the broader concept of human society's development, refinement, and organized structures, often in contrast to a more primitive state.

Examples

La invención de la escritura fue un gran avance para la civilización.

The invention of writing was a great advance for civilization.

General vs. Advanced Culture

Learners often use 'civilización' when they simply mean the everyday customs and arts of a group. Remember, 'cultura' is the default for general culture, while 'civilización' implies a more advanced, organized, and often historical societal development.

Related Translations

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