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How to Say "honor" in Spanish

English → Spanish

honor

/oh-NOR//oˈnoɾ/

nounB1
Use 'honor' when referring to a good reputation, integrity, or a sense of respect that is upheld, often in a formal or serious context.
A solemn person standing on a grassy hill at sunrise, holding a clean, illuminated shield, symbolizing integrity and honor.

Examples

Luchó por el honor de su familia.

He fought for his family's honor.

Es un hombre de honor.

He is a man of honor.

Prefiero morir con honor que vivir con vergüenza.

I prefer to die with honor than live with shame.

Es un honor estar aquí con ustedes.

It's an honor to be here with you.

A Masculine Word That Doesn't End in -O

Even though it ends with an '-r', 'honor' is a masculine word. Always say 'el honor' (the honor) or 'un honor' (an honor).

Using 'la' instead of 'el'

Mistake: “La honor de mi país es importante.”

Correction: El honor de mi país es importante. Remember that 'honor' is masculine, so it needs 'el'.

privilegio

/pree-bee-LEH-heeoh//pɾi.βiˈle.xjo/

nounB2
Choose 'privilegio' when 'honor' implies a special advantage, a rare opportunity, or a distinction that sets someone apart.
A joyful cartoon character proudly wearing a large, golden laurel wreath on their head, symbolizing honor and distinction.

Examples

Fue un privilegio asistir a la ceremonia de graduación de mi hija.

It was an honor/a privilege to attend my daughter's graduation ceremony.

Tuve el privilegio de trabajar junto a la famosa chef durante un mes.

I had the honor of working alongside the famous chef for a month.

Using 'De'

When using 'privilegio' to mean 'honor' and following it with an action, you almost always need the preposition 'de' (of): 'Tengo el privilegio de ayudarte' (I have the honor of helping you).

orgullo

or-GOO-yoh/oɾˈɣuʎo/

nounA2
Use 'orgullo' when 'honor' is used to express a deep sense of satisfaction or pride derived from an achievement or a person.
A happy young girl stands next to a simple, colorful drawing she just completed, smiling widely with a sense of accomplishment.

Examples

Siento mucho orgullo por haber terminado la carrera.

I feel a lot of pride for having finished the degree.

Mi hijo es mi mayor orgullo.

My son is my greatest pride (or: my greatest source of pride).

Es un orgullo representar a mi país.

It is an honor/a source of pride to represent my country.

Using 'Orgullo' with Verbs

You typically use 'sentir' (to feel) or 'tener' (to have) with 'orgullo': 'Siento orgullo' or 'Tengo orgullo'.

Confusing the Adjective

Mistake: “Using *orgullo* (the noun) instead of *orgulloso* (the adjective) to describe a person, e.g., 'Yo soy orgullo.'”

Correction: Use the adjective: 'Yo soy orgulloso/a' (I am proud).

Distinguishing 'honor' from 'privilegio'

Learners often confuse 'honor' and 'privilegio' when the English word implies a special opportunity. Remember that 'privilegio' specifically highlights the advantage or rarity of the situation, while 'honor' can also refer to reputation or integrity.

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