Inklingo

How to Say "elders" in Spanish

English → Spanish

ancianos

ahn-SYAH-nohs/anˈsjanos/

nounA1respectful
Use 'ancianos' when referring to elderly people in a respectful manner, often emphasizing their wisdom or importance within a community.
A diverse group of three smiling elderly people sitting on a park bench, looking friendly and relaxed.

Examples

Los ancianos de la comunidad merecen nuestro respeto.

The elders of the community deserve our respect.

Hay un centro especial para los ancianos en el barrio.

There is a special center for elders in the neighborhood.

Masculine Plural

Even when referring to a mixed group of older men and women, the masculine plural form ('ancianos') is traditionally used in Spanish.

Using 'Viejos'

Mistake: “Usar 'viejos' para referirse a la gente mayor.”

Correction: Use 'ancianos' or 'mayores'. 'Viejos' (old ones) can sometimes sound rude or disrespectful, especially when speaking about people.

mayores

mah-YOH-rehs/maˈʝoɾes/

nounA2general
Use 'mayores' to talk about older people in general, or to refer to one's parents, superiors, or those who hold a position of authority in a family or social group.
A group of three senior citizens with kind faces sitting together on a park bench, illustrating the concept of elders.

Examples

Debemos escuchar los consejos de nuestros mayores.

We must listen to the advice of our elders.

La entrada al museo es gratuita para los mayores.

Museum entry is free for seniors.

El club organiza actividades solo para mayores de edad.

The club organizes activities only for adults (people of legal age).

Adjective acting as Noun

When you put the article 'los' or 'las' in front of 'mayores', it automatically turns the adjective into a noun meaning 'the older people' or 'the seniors'.

superiores

soo-peh-ree-OH-rehs/supeˈɾjoɾes/

nounB2formal/religious
Choose 'superiores' specifically for a religious or monastic context, referring to those who are in charge or have higher authority within that institution.
A central, stylized figure holding a clipboard and wearing a distinct uniform, giving directions to two smaller figures who are listening intently.

Examples

Debemos informar a nuestros superiores sobre el cambio de planes.

We must inform our superiors about the change in plans.

Los superiores del monasterio tomaron la decisión final.

The superiors of the monastery made the final decision.

Ella siempre obedece a sus superiores en el trabajo.

She always obeys her bosses at work.

The Noun Form

When used as a noun, 'superiores' acts like 'the bosses' or 'the higher-ups,' meaning it refers directly to people, often preceded by 'los' or 'mis/tus'.

Choosing Between 'Ancianos' and 'Mayores'

Learners often confuse 'ancianos' and 'mayores'. Remember that 'ancianos' is more specific to the elderly with a tone of deep respect, while 'mayores' is broader, referring to older people generally or those in a position of authority like parents.

Related Translations

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