Inklingo

How to Say "motto" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “motto” is “lema” — use 'lema' for a formal motto that encapsulates the core beliefs or ideals of a group, institution, or historical movement.

lema🔊B1

Use 'lema' for a formal motto that encapsulates the core beliefs or ideals of a group, institution, or historical movement.

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consigna🔊B1

Choose 'consigna' when referring to a slogan or rallying cry, often used repeatedly by a group, especially in protest or political contexts.

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frase🔊B1

Use 'frase' for a concise guiding principle or favorite saying that is personal or widely known, like a quote.

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filosofíaB2

Opt for 'filosofía' when the motto represents the fundamental guiding principles or underlying philosophy of a business, organization, or even an individual's life approach.

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divisa🔊C1

Use 'divisa' specifically for a family motto or a motto that is a distinctive phrase expressing a guiding principle, often with a slightly more formal or traditional feel.

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English → Spanish

lema

LEH-mahˈlema

nounB1general
Use 'lema' for a formal motto that encapsulates the core beliefs or ideals of a group, institution, or historical movement.
A vibrant shield with a golden lion standing proudly in the center.

Examples

El lema de la Revolución Francesa era 'Libertad, Igualdad y Fraternidad'.

The motto of the French Revolution was 'Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity'.

La empresa cambió su lema para atraer a clientes más jóvenes.

The company changed its slogan to attract younger customers.

Nuestro lema familiar es 'siempre adelante'.

Our family motto is 'always forward'.

The 'Ma' Word Rule

Even though 'lema' ends in an 'a', it is masculine. You must say 'el lema' and 'los lemas'. This is common for Spanish words that come from Greek.

Adjective Agreement

Because the word is masculine, any describing words must also be masculine: 'un lema corto' (a short motto), not 'una lema corta'.

Using 'La' instead of 'El'

Mistake: “La lema es muy pegadizo.”

Correction: El lema es muy pegadizo. Why? Words ending in -ma like lema, problema, and sistema are almost always masculine.

consigna

kon-SEEG-nahkonˈsiɣna

nounB1general
Choose 'consigna' when referring to a slogan or rallying cry, often used repeatedly by a group, especially in protest or political contexts.
A group of people standing together holding blank colorful placards and megaphones.

Examples

Los manifestantes repetían la misma consigna una y otra vez.

The protesters repeated the same slogan over and over again.

Nuestra consigna para este año es 'innovación y calidad'.

Our motto for this year is 'innovation and quality'.

El sindicato lanzó una consigna de huelga general.

The union issued a call (slogan) for a general strike.

Always Feminine

Even though it ends in 'a', just remember it's always 'la consigna'. It doesn't change based on who is speaking.

Not just a 'slogan'

Mistake: “Using 'eslogan' for a military order.”

Correction: Use 'consigna' when referring to a specific instruction or a chant used by a group to show unity.

frase

FRAH-sehˈfɾase

nounB1general
Use 'frase' for a concise guiding principle or favorite saying that is personal or widely known, like a quote.
A wise, large brown owl sitting on a stack of books, looking thoughtful. A single, distinct, glowing golden orb is floating right above the owl's head, signifying a memorable saying or quote.

Examples

Su frase favorita es 'Carpe Diem'.

His favorite quote is 'Carpe Diem'.

El presidente terminó su discurso con una frase inspiradora.

The president finished his speech with an inspiring quote.

filosofía

nounB2general
Opt for 'filosofía' when the motto represents the fundamental guiding principles or underlying philosophy of a business, organization, or even an individual's life approach.

Examples

La filosofía de esta empresa es poner al cliente primero.

The philosophy of this company is to put the customer first.

divisa

dee-BEE-sahdiˈβisa

nounC1formal
Use 'divisa' specifically for a family motto or a motto that is a distinctive phrase expressing a guiding principle, often with a slightly more formal or traditional feel.
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).

Lema vs. Consigna vs. Frase

Learners often confuse 'lema' and 'consigna'. Remember that 'lema' is a broader term for a foundational motto of an entity, while 'consigna' is more like a repeated slogan or rallying cry, often in a specific context like a protest. 'Frase' is simpler, referring to any concise, memorable saying or quote.

Related Translations

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