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How to Say "insignia" in Spanish

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distintivo

/dees-teen-TEE-boh//dis.tin.ˈti.βo/

nounB2general
Use 'distintivo' when referring to a physical badge, emblem, or mark that signifies office, rank, membership, or achievement, such as an employee ID or a military patch.
A shiny gold star-shaped emblem pinned to a blue fabric.

Examples

Todos los empleados deben llevar su distintivo en la solapa.

All employees must wear their badge on their lapel.

El oficial mostró su distintivo antes de entrar al edificio.

The officer showed his badge before entering the building.

La calidad es el distintivo de nuestra empresa.

Quality is the hallmark of our company.

Always Masculine

As a noun meaning 'badge' or 'emblem,' it is always masculine: 'el distintivo,' even if a woman is wearing it.

Badge of Honor

Mistake: “Using 'distintivo' for a police badge in a very casual way.”

Correction: While 'distintivo' is correct, many people use 'placa' specifically for a police shield or metal badge.

divisa

/dee-BEE-sah//diˈβisa/

nounC1formal, heraldic
Use 'divisa' when referring to a symbolic emblem, motto, or crest that represents a family, organization, or ideal, often found in heraldry or as a guiding principle.
A colorful shield with a simple ribbon wrapped around it representing a family crest or motto.

Examples

La divisa de la familia era 'Siempre adelante'.

The family motto was 'Always forward'.

Los soldados llevaban una divisa roja en el uniforme.

The soldiers wore a red insignia on their uniforms.

Abstract vs. Concrete

This meaning can be abstract (a motto) or concrete (a physical badge or ribbon worn on clothing).

Distintivo vs. Divisa

Learners often confuse 'distintivo' and 'divisa' because both can mean 'badge'. Remember that 'distintivo' usually refers to a tangible item like an ID or patch, while 'divisa' is more often a symbolic motto or crest.

Related Translations

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