Inklingo

How to Say "devotion" in Spanish

English → Spanish

lealtad

lay-ahl-TAHD/le.alˈtað/

nounB1general
Use 'lealtad' when referring to a deep commitment and faithfulness, particularly in relationships or towards a person or group.
A brightly colored illustration showing a small child holding hands with a large, friendly brown dog. They are walking together on a sunny green path, symbolizing the bond of loyalty and faithfulness.

Examples

La lealtad de un perro a su dueño es asombrosa.

A dog's loyalty to its owner is amazing.

Puso a prueba su lealtad al pedirle que guardara el secreto.

He tested her loyalty by asking her to keep the secret.

Jurar lealtad a la bandera es un acto solemne.

To swear allegiance to the flag is a solemn act.

Always Feminine

Remember that 'lealtad' is a feminine noun, so you must always use the feminine articles: 'la lealtad' or 'una lealtad'.

Using 'de' instead of 'a'

Mistake: “Lealtad de la empresa.”

Correction: Lealtad a la empresa. (Loyalty to the company). Spanish generally uses the preposition 'a' (to) when specifying the target of the loyalty.

piedad

pee-eh-DAHD/pjeˈðað/

nounC1religious
Choose 'piedad' specifically for deep religious commitment, piety, and a strong sense of spiritual devotion.
A solitary person kneeling on the ground with their hands pressed together and eyes closed in a gesture of deep reverence and prayer.

Examples

La abuela era conocida por su profunda piedad y asistencia diaria a misa.

The grandmother was known for her deep piety and daily attendance at mass.

El cuadro representa las siete obras de piedad.

The painting represents the seven acts of piety (or 'works of mercy').

Historical Meaning

Historically, 'piedad' also meant 'dutifulness' or 'reverence' toward one's parents or gods, which is where both the compassion and religious meanings come from.

religión

nounC1figurative
Use 'religión' metaphorically to describe an intense, almost religious-like commitment or passion for a cause, hobby, or activity.

Examples

Para muchos aficionados, el fútbol es una religión.

For many fans, football (soccer) is a religion.

Lealtad vs. Piedad

The most common mistake is using 'lealtad' for religious feelings or 'piedad' for general faithfulness. Remember, 'lealtad' is about loyalty and commitment, while 'piedad' is specifically about religious devotion.

Related Translations

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.