Inklingo

How to Say "ghost" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “ghost” is “fantasma” — this is the most common and general term for a ghost, referring to a supernatural being or apparition, often in a spooky context.

fantasma🔊A2

This is the most common and general term for a ghost, referring to a supernatural being or apparition, often in a spooky context.

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aparecido🔊B2

Use this term for a ghost that has 'appeared' or manifested, often implying a localized or specific haunting, like in folklore.

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espectro🔊C1

This word refers to a more frightening or spectral apparition, often used for dramatic effect or in horror contexts.

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sombra🔊B2

While 'sombra' primarily means 'shadow,' it can be used figuratively for a ghost or a trace of something that once existed, implying a faint or lingering presence.

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espírituB1

This term is often used in a more literary or philosophical sense, referring to the non-physical essence of a person or a disembodied soul, rather than a visual apparition.

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English → Spanish

fantasma

fahn-TAHS-mahfanˈtasma

nounA2general
This is the most common and general term for a ghost, referring to a supernatural being or apparition, often in a spooky context.
A translucent white ghost figure with a flowing bottom edge floating in a dark blue, simple room.

Examples

Dicen que un viejo fantasma vive en ese castillo abandonado.

They say an old ghost lives in that abandoned castle.

Mi hermano vio el fantasma de una mujer en el espejo.

My brother saw the specter of a woman in the mirror.

Masculine Nouns Ending in -A

Even though 'fantasma' ends in -a, it is always a masculine noun, meaning you must use 'el' (the) and masculine adjectives with it: 'el fantasma blanco' (the white ghost).

Using the Wrong Article

Mistake: “La fantasma es aterradora.”

Correction: El fantasma es aterrador. (The ghost is terrifying.) Remember to use 'el' for this word.

aparecido

ah-pah-reh-SEE-dohapaɾeˈsiðo

nounB2general
Use this term for a ghost that has 'appeared' or manifested, often implying a localized or specific haunting, like in folklore.
A friendly, translucent white ghost figure floating gently in a dark blue nighttime setting.

Examples

Los abuelos contaban historias de un aparecido en la hacienda vieja.

The grandparents told stories about a ghost in the old ranch.

Vi una sombra, pero no sé si era un aparecido o solo mi imaginación.

I saw a shadow, but I don't know if it was an apparition or just my imagination.

Derived Noun

This noun literally means 'the one who has appeared.' Many Spanish nouns are formed this way by taking the past participle and treating it like a thing or person.

espectro

es-PEK-troesˈpektɾo

nounC1general
This word refers to a more frightening or spectral apparition, often used for dramatic effect or in horror contexts.
A translucent, friendly white ghost floating in a dimly lit room.

Examples

Un espectro apareció en medio de la niebla.

A ghost appeared in the middle of the fog.

El espectro de la guerra asusta a la población.

The specter of war scares the population.

Dicen que el castillo está habitado por espectros.

They say the castle is inhabited by phantoms.

Formal Tone

While 'fantasma' is the word kids use for ghosts, 'espectro' sounds more like something from a classic gothic novel.

Casual Conversation

Mistake: “Saying 'Vi un espectro' when telling a joke to friends.”

Correction: Use 'fantasma' for casual talk; 'espectro' is very serious or literary.

sombra

SOM-brahˈsom.bɾa

nounB2figurative
While 'sombra' primarily means 'shadow,' it can be used figuratively for a ghost or a trace of something that once existed, implying a faint or lingering presence.
A clear glass jar that is nearly empty, showing only a small trace of bright red sand remaining at the bottom.

Examples

No queda ni la sombra de lo que fue antes.

There is not even a trace of what it once was.

Tenía la sombra de la duda en su voz.

He had a hint of doubt in his voice.

Figurative Use

When used figuratively, 'sombra' often refers to something intangible, like a feeling, memory, or a slight presence.

espíritu

nounB1literary
This term is often used in a more literary or philosophical sense, referring to the non-physical essence of a person or a disembodied soul, rather than a visual apparition.

Examples

Dicen que el cuerpo muere, pero el espíritu es eterno.

They say the body dies, but the spirit is eternal.

Fantasma vs. the rest

Learners often overuse 'fantasma' for all types of ghosts. Remember that 'aparecido' implies manifestation, 'espectro' a scarier apparition, and 'sombra' a figurative trace. 'Espíritu' is usually more philosophical than a visible ghost.

Related Translations

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