Inklingo

How to Say "intimacy" in Spanish

English → Spanish

intimidad

een-tee-mee-DAHDinti.miˈðað

nounB1general
Use 'intimidad' when referring to a deep emotional bond, personal privacy, or a close, often romantic, relationship.
A person sitting comfortably in a cozy reading nook with a tall wooden fence and lush green bushes providing a secluded space.

Examples

La pareja compartía una profunda intimidad.

The couple shared a deep intimacy.

Es importante respetar la intimidad de las personas.

It is important to respect people's privacy.

Cenaron en la intimidad de su casa.

They had dinner in the privacy of their home.

Hay una gran intimidad entre los dos hermanos.

There is a great intimacy/closeness between the two brothers.

Always Feminine

Words ending in '-dad' are almost always feminine. Always use 'la' or 'una' with this word.

Intimidad vs. Privacidad

Mistake: “Using 'privacidad' for everything related to being alone.”

Correction: While 'privacidad' is common now (especially online), 'intimidad' is the more traditional Spanish word for your 'private life' or emotional closeness.

cercanía

nounA2general
Use 'cercanía' to describe physical proximity or a general feeling of emotional connection and friendliness, rather than deep personal privacy.

Examples

Sentí una gran cercanía con mis nuevos compañeros de trabajo.

I felt a great closeness with my new coworkers.

Confusing emotional vs. physical closeness

Learners often confuse 'cercanía' and 'intimidad' by using 'cercanía' for deep emotional bonds. Remember that 'intimidad' specifically refers to a more profound, personal, and private connection, while 'cercanía' can also mean simple physical proximity or general friendliness.

Related Translations

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.