Inklingo

How to Say "password" in Spanish

English → Spanish

contraseña

nounA1digital access
Use 'contraseña' specifically for digital access, such as your email, social media, or website login.

Examples

Olvidé mi contraseña para acceder al correo electrónico.

I forgot my password to access the email.

clave

KLAH-vehˈklaβe

nounA2for access to a device or account
Use 'clave' for a general access code to a device, account, or system, often implying a physical or less strictly digital context than 'contraseña'.
A cartoon hand typing on a brightly colored padlock-shaped keyboard, causing the lock to click open.

Examples

Olvidé la clave de mi correo electrónico.

I forgot the password to my email.

Por seguridad, cambia tu clave cada mes.

For security, change your code every month.

Always Feminine

Even though 'clave' refers to a code or password, it is always a feminine noun: 'la clave'.

Gender Confusion

Mistake: “El clave (using the masculine article)”

Correction: La clave (always use the feminine article 'la' or 'una').

consigna

kon-SEEG-nahkonˈsiɣna

nounB2watchword or secret phrase
Use 'consigna' for a watchword, slogan, or a secret phrase that carries an instruction or motto, not typically for digital logins.
A person in a uniform handing a folded piece of paper with a wax seal to another person.

Examples

La consigna del jefe era no molestar a los clientes.

The boss's instruction was not to disturb the customers.

El guardia no nos dejó pasar porque no sabíamos la consigna.

The guard didn't let us through because we didn't know the password.

Siga las consignas de seguridad en caso de incendio.

Follow the safety instructions in case of fire.

Specific Orders

Unlike a general rule, a 'consigna' is usually a specific task or behavior assigned for a particular situation.

Password usage

Mistake: “Using 'consigna' for a website password.”

Correction: Use 'contraseña' for digital passwords. Use 'consigna' for a verbal secret word used with a guard or group.

Contraseña vs. Clave

The most common confusion is between 'contraseña' and 'clave'. While both can refer to access codes, 'contraseña' is almost exclusively used for digital logins (websites, apps, email). 'Clave' is broader and can include device passcodes or other access methods, but 'contraseña' is the safest bet for online accounts.

Related Translations

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