Inklingo

How to Say "mankind" in Spanish

English → Spanish

humanidad

oo-mah-nee-DAHD/umaniˈðað/

nounA1general
Use 'humanidad' when referring to all people collectively, the human species as a whole, or the state of being human.
A stylized illustration showing a large, diverse group of people (various ages, skin tones, and genders) standing close together on a simplified representation of the Earth, symbolizing the collective human race.

Examples

La humanidad ha vivido en este planeta por miles de años.

Humanity has lived on this planet for thousands of years.

Necesitamos proteger el medio ambiente por el bien de toda la humanidad.

We need to protect the environment for the good of all humanity.

Always Singular

Even though 'humanidad' refers to billions of people, it is always treated as a singular noun in Spanish. Use singular verbs with it (e.g., 'La humanidad es...').

Using Plural Articles

Mistake: “Las humanidad”

Correction: La humanidad. Nouns ending in -dad are almost always feminine and singular when used collectively.

hombre

/OM-breh//ˈombɾe/

nounB1general
Use 'hombre' when referring to the human race, often in a more abstract or historical context, emphasizing achievements or characteristics of humanity.
A diverse group of people representing humanity, a broader meaning of 'hombre'.

Examples

El hombre ha logrado grandes avances tecnológicos.

Mankind has achieved great technological advances.

La historia del hombre es fascinante.

The history of humankind is fascinating.

Singular for the Whole Group

When talking about humanity, Spanish often uses the singular, masculine 'el hombre' to represent everyone. Don't be surprised to see it used this way, even though it refers to all people.

Choosing between 'hombre' and 'humanidad'

Learners often default to 'hombre' because it's a common word, but 'humanidad' is generally the safer and more direct translation for 'mankind' or 'humanity' in most contexts. Reserve 'hombre' for when you specifically want to talk about the human race in a broader, sometimes more philosophical sense.

Related Translations

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.