Inklingo

How to Say "oath" in Spanish

English → Spanish

juramento

hoo-rah-MEN-toh/xuɾaˈmento/

nounB1formal
Use 'juramento' when referring to a solemn promise or declaration, especially one made in a legal setting like a court of law or during a formal ceremony.
A close-up storybook illustration showing a single adult hand raised vertically into the air, palm facing forward, signifying the act of taking an oath or making a solemn promise.

Examples

El presidente hizo un juramento al asumir su cargo.

The president took an oath upon taking office.

El testigo tuvo que hacer un juramento antes de declarar.

The witness had to take an oath before testifying.

Su juramento de fidelidad a la causa era inquebrantable.

His solemn promise of loyalty to the cause was unbreakable.

El nuevo alcalde tomó juramento en una ceremonia pública.

The new mayor was sworn in (took the oath) at a public ceremony.

Using 'Hacer' vs. 'Tomar'

Use the verb 'hacer' (to make/do) when talking about the person who is giving the oath ('hacer un juramento'). Use 'tomar' (to take) when talking about the person who receives or administers the oath.

Confusing 'Juramento' and 'Jurar'

Mistake:Using 'jurar' when you mean the noun: 'Yo di un juramento.'

Correction: The correct verb to use with the noun is 'hacer': 'Yo hice un juramento.' 'Jurar' is the verb meaning 'to swear' or 'to take an oath'.

voto

VOH-toh/ˈbo.to/

nounB2formal
Choose 'voto' for a formal promise or pledge, particularly when it's a personal commitment, a religious vow, or a promise made for a specific cause.
An illustration showing two hands clasped together tightly, symbolizing a solemn promise or vow.

Examples

Muchos religiosos hacen un voto de castidad.

Many religious individuals take a vow of chastity.

Los monjes hicieron un voto de pobreza y humildad.

The monks took a vow of poverty and humility.

Ella cumplió su voto de visitar la iglesia todos los domingos.

She fulfilled her vow to visit the church every Sunday.

Romper un voto es considerado una falta grave.

Breaking a vow is considered a serious offense.

The Verb 'Hacer'

To express the act of taking or making a vow, Spanish uses the verb 'hacer' (to do/make): 'hacer un voto'.

Juramento vs. Voto

The main confusion arises between 'juramento' and 'voto' when a promise is involved. Remember that 'juramento' leans towards legal or public declarations, while 'voto' is more about personal or religious commitments.

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