How to Say "liberal" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “liberal” is “liberal” — use 'liberal' as a noun when referring to a person who supports the political ideology of liberalism..
liberal
lee-beh-RAHL/li.βeˈɾal/
Examples
Los liberales proponen bajar los impuestos.
The liberals propose lowering taxes.
Él se define como un liberal convencido.
He defines himself as a convinced liberal.
El partido de los liberales ganó las elecciones.
The liberal party won the elections.
Fue muy liberal con las propinas durante su viaje.
He was very generous with tips during his trip.
Using the Article
When using this as a noun to talk about a person, you must use 'el' or 'la' (el liberal / la liberal).
Context is Key
This meaning is quite formal. In 90% of cases, Spanish speakers will use 'generoso' instead.
Confusing with 'Libre'
Mistake: “Saying 'Él es libre' when you mean 'He is a liberal.'”
Correction: 'Libre' means 'free' (not in jail or not busy). 'Liberal' describes political or social beliefs.
liberal
lee-beh-RAHL/li.βeˈɾal/
Examples
Fue muy liberal con las propinas durante su viaje.
He was very generous with tips during his trip.
Los liberales proponen bajar los impuestos.
The liberals propose lowering taxes.
Él se define como un liberal convencido.
He defines himself as a convinced liberal.
El partido de los liberales ganó las elecciones.
The liberal party won the elections.
Using the Article
When using this as a noun to talk about a person, you must use 'el' or 'la' (el liberal / la liberal).
Context is Key
This meaning is quite formal. In 90% of cases, Spanish speakers will use 'generoso' instead.
Confusing with 'Libre'
Mistake: “Saying 'Él es libre' when you mean 'He is a liberal.'”
Correction: 'Libre' means 'free' (not in jail or not busy). 'Liberal' describes political or social beliefs.
progresista
/pro-gre-SEES-tah//pɾoɣɾeˈsista/
Examples
Los progresistas de la ciudad se reunieron para protestar.
The progressives of the city gathered to protest.
Él siempre se ha considerado un progresista.
He has always considered himself a progressive.
Como progresista, ella apoya la igualdad total.
As a progressive, she supports total equality.
Use the article to show gender
Since the word 'progresista' doesn't change, we use 'el' for a man and 'la' for a woman to know who we are talking about.
Watch the plural
Mistake: “Los progresistos.”
Correction: Los progresistas. To make it plural, just add 's', don't change the 'a'.
Liberal vs. Progresista in Politics
Related Translations
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