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How to Say "lady" in Spanish

English → Spanish

señora

nounA2general
Use 'señora' as a general, polite, and common way to refer to an adult woman, similar to 'ma'am' or 'madam' in English.

Examples

Una señora me preguntó la hora en la calle.

A lady asked me for the time on the street.

dama

DAH-mah/ˈda.ma/

nounA2formal/literary
Use 'dama' in more formal or literary contexts, often implying elegance or a noble status, or when referring to a woman in a game like chess.
A woman wearing an elegant dress and holding a small handbag, smiling politely.

Examples

La joven dama esperó pacientemente en la entrada.

The young lady waited patiently at the entrance.

Mi abuela siempre fue considerada una gran dama de la sociedad.

My grandmother was always considered a great lady of society.

El mesero preguntó: "¿Qué desea la dama?"

The waiter asked, "What does the lady wish?"

Respectful Reference

'Dama' is often used to refer to a woman respectfully or formally, similar to how you might use 'lady' in English.

doña

nounA1very formal/traditional
Use 'doña' before a woman's first name in very formal or traditional settings, often implying respect for age or social standing; it functions like 'Mrs.' but is more formal.

Examples

Necesito hablar con Doña Isabel sobre el contrato.

I need to speak with Mrs. Isabel about the contract.

Confusing 'Señora' and 'Dama'

Learners often confuse 'señora' and 'dama' because both can refer to a woman. Remember that 'señora' is the everyday, neutral term, while 'dama' is more elevated and less common in casual conversation.

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