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How to Say "earned" in Spanish

English → Spanish

ganado

/gah-NAH-doh//ɡaˈnaðo/

Past ParticipleA1General
Use 'ganado' when referring to something that has been won or acquired, particularly money or respect, often as part of a compound verb tense like 'haber ganado'.
A high-quality illustration of a large, shiny gold trophy cup standing prominently on a simple wooden pedestal, symbolizing victory.

Examples

Hemos ganado el partido por dos puntos.

We have won the game by two points.

Es el dinero que has ganado con tu esfuerzo.

It is the money that you have earned with your effort.

La medalla ganada era de oro.

The medal won was gold. (Here, it acts like an adjective)

Forming Perfect Tenses

The past participle ('ganado') never changes when used with the verb 'haber' (to have) to create perfect tenses: 'Yo he ganado' (I have won), 'Ellas han ganado' (They have won).

Adjective Use

When 'ganado' is used as a standalone adjective (like 'won' or 'earned'), it MUST match the thing it describes in number and gender: 'Las batallas ganadas' (The won battles).

Changing Gender in Perfect Tenses

Mistake: “Hemos ganada la copa.”

Correction: Hemos GANADO la copa. The participle is fixed when used with 'haber', regardless of the noun's gender.

ganó

VerbA2General
Use 'ganó' (the preterite tense of 'ganar') when talking about someone who earned or won something specific, like money, a salary, or income in the past.

Examples

Ella ganó un buen sueldo en su trabajo anterior.

She earned a good salary in her previous job.

sacó

VerbA2General
Use 'sacó' (the preterite tense of 'sacar') specifically when referring to earning or obtaining grades or profits, implying achievement through effort.

Examples

Ella estudió mucho y sacó la mejor nota de la clase.

She studied a lot and got the best grade in the class.

Distinguishing 'Ganar' from 'Sacar' for Achievements

Learners often confuse 'ganó' (from ganar) and 'sacó' (from sacar) when referring to achievements. Remember that 'ganó' is generally for money, salary, or winning things, while 'sacó' is specifically for grades or profits, indicating attainment.

Related Translations

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