Inklingo

How to Say "emotions" in Spanish

English → Spanish

emociones

/eh-moh-see-OH-nes//emoˈθjones/

nounA1general
Use 'emociones' when referring to feelings in a general, abstract, or psychological sense, like the broad spectrum of human emotional experiences.
A simple illustration showing three stylized characters side by side: one yellow and happy, one blue and sad, and one red and angry, representing various emotions.

Examples

Las emociones son una parte natural de la vida.

Emotions are a natural part of life.

Es importante aprender a gestionar tus emociones en momentos difíciles.

It is important to learn how to manage your emotions in difficult moments.

El discurso del presidente despertó una oleada de emociones encontradas en la audiencia.

The president's speech stirred a wave of mixed emotions in the audience.

Feminine Noun Rule

This word is the plural form of 'emoción.' Remember that almost all Spanish nouns ending in '-ción' (like nación, acción, or emoción) are always feminine, so you use 'las' or 'unas' before them.

Using the wrong article

Mistake: “Los emociones son difíciles.”

Correction: Las emociones son difíciles. (Use 'las' because 'emociones' is feminine.)

sentimientos

/sen-tee-mee-EN-tohs//sentimjentos/

nounA1general
Use 'sentimientos' when talking about specific emotional reactions, affections, or the personal feelings you have towards someone or something.
A high quality storybook illustration showing four simple, colorful, floating objects: a red heart, a bright yellow star, a blue raindrop, and a stylized green spiral, symbolizing different emotions.

Examples

No puedo ocultar mis sentimientos hacia ella.

I can't hide my feelings for her.

¿Cuáles son tus sentimientos sobre este nuevo plan?

What are your feelings (or thoughts) about this new plan?

Expresar los sentimientos es vital para la salud mental.

Expressing emotions is vital for mental health.

Always Plural

Even when referring to the general concept of 'emotion,' the plural 'sentimientos' is often used, similar to how we use 'emotions' in English.

Gender Check

This is a masculine plural noun, so it must be paired with masculine plural words, like 'los sentimientos' (the feelings) or 'muchos sentimientos' (many feelings).

Feeling vs. Sensation

Mistake: “Using 'sensaciones' when you mean 'sentimientos.'”

Correction: 'Sensación' is usually for physical feelings (like 'a tingly sensation'). Use 'sentimientos' only for emotional states.

Emociones vs. Sentimientos

The most common confusion is using 'emociones' when you mean personal, directed feelings. While 'emociones' is broad, 'sentimientos' is better for specific affections or emotional states towards others.

Related Translations

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