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How to Say "objection" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “objection” is “inconveniente” — use this word when expressing a mild disagreement or a reason why something might be problematic or inconvenient, often in everyday conversation..

English → Spanish

inconveniente

/een-kon-be-nyen-te//inkombeˈnjente/

nounB1informal
Use this word when expressing a mild disagreement or a reason why something might be problematic or inconvenient, often in everyday conversation.
A large, heavy boulder blocking a narrow path in a lush green forest.

Examples

¿Tienes algún inconveniente en que nos reunamos mañana?

Do you have any problem with us meeting tomorrow?

El único inconveniente del hotel es que está lejos del centro.

The only drawback of the hotel is that it is far from the center.

Hubo un pequeño inconveniente con el sistema de pagos.

There was a small hitch with the payment system.

Using 'en que'

When you follow this word with an action, use 'en que' followed by a special verb form (the subjunctive) to express doubt or requests, like 'inconveniente en que vengas'.

Don't just use 'problema'

Mistake: “Using 'problema' for everything.”

Correction: Use 'inconveniente' to sound more polite and sophisticated, especially in business or with strangers.

objeción

nounB1formal
Choose this translation for formal or legal contexts, referring to a direct challenge or a formal statement of disagreement, especially in debates or court.

Examples

El abogado levantó una objeción durante el juicio.

The lawyer raised an objection during the trial.

pero

/peh-roh//'pe.ɾo/

nounB2
Use 'pero' (as a noun) to refer to a specific drawback or a single, significant point that goes against something, often implying a limitation.
A person's hand holding a magnifying glass over a shiny red apple, as if looking for a small flaw or objection.

Examples

El plan es casi perfecto, solo tiene un pero.

The plan is almost perfect, it just has one drawback.

No le pongas peros a todo lo que digo.

Don't find fault with everything I say.

Todo muy bonito, ¿dónde está el pero?

Everything is very nice, so where's the catch?

A Word for an Idea

When 'pero' is used like this, it's a noun—a word for a thing or an idea. Because it's a masculine noun, you'll see it with words like 'un', 'el', or 'ningún'.

protesta

proh-TESS-tah/proˈtesta/

nounB1formal
This word refers to a strong, often public, expression of disapproval or disagreement, frequently used for organized actions or demonstrations.
A group of diverse, stylized people walking together in a line, holding up blank, colorful signs, illustrating a public demonstration or protest.

Examples

La protesta de los estudiantes llenó las calles.

The students' protest filled the streets.

Presentamos una protesta escrita al gerente por el mal servicio.

We filed a written complaint with the manager about the poor service.

Hubo una pequeña protesta frente al ayuntamiento.

There was a small demonstration in front of the city hall.

Gender Reminder

Even though it ends in '-a,' remember that the word 'protesta' is always feminine, so you use 'la' (la protesta) or 'una' (una protesta).

Avoiding 'inconveniente' vs. 'objeción'

Learners often confuse 'inconveniente' and 'objeción'. Remember that 'inconveniente' is for everyday, mild issues, while 'objeción' is for formal challenges or legal arguments. Using 'objeción' in a casual setting can sound overly dramatic or misplaced.

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