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How to Say "patron" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “patron” is “cliente” — use 'cliente' when referring to someone who regularly buys goods or services from a business, like a customer in a shop or restaurant..

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cliente

/klee-EN-teh//kliˈente/

nounA1general
Use 'cliente' when referring to someone who regularly buys goods or services from a business, like a customer in a shop or restaurant.
A colorful illustration of a smiling customer receiving a brown shopping bag from a cashier across a wooden counter.

Examples

El cliente siempre tiene la razón.

The customer is always right.

Soy cliente habitual de esta cafetería.

I am a regular customer of this coffee shop.

La abogada está esperando a su próximo cliente.

The lawyer is waiting for her next client.

Gender: 'cliente' and 'clienta'

The word 'cliente' refers to a male customer or is used when the gender isn't known. For a female customer, you must use the word 'clienta'.

Mixing up 'Cliente' and 'Huésped'

Mistake: “El hotel tiene muchos clientes nuevos.”

Correction: It's more natural to say, 'El hotel tiene muchos huéspedes nuevos.' Use 'huésped' for a hotel guest and 'cliente' for almost everyone else who buys something.

protector

/pro-tek-TOR//pɾoteɣˈtoɾ/

nounB1general
Choose 'protector' when referring to someone who actively supports or defends a cause, institution, or person, especially in the arts or sciences.
A tall, strong figure holds the hand of a small figure, guiding them safely across a narrow wooden bridge.

Examples

El duque era el protector de la ciudad durante la guerra.

The duke was the protector of the city during the war.

Buscan un protector para financiar la nueva fundación.

They are looking for a patron to finance the new foundation.

The Female Form

To refer to a female person who protects, use the feminine noun: la protectora (the protectress/female patron).

padrino

pah-DREE-noh/paˈðɾino/

nounB2formal
Use 'padrino' when referring to someone who provides significant financial or influential support, acting as a sponsor or mentor, particularly in professional or artistic fields.
An established, well-dressed person placing a supportive hand on the shoulder of a younger person holding a briefcase, symbolizing a powerful patron.

Examples

En el mundo del arte, ella encontró un padrino que financió su exposición.

In the art world, she found a patron who financed her exhibition.

Se dice que el jefe de la mafia es el padrino de toda la ciudad.

They say the mafia boss is the 'godfather' (protector/patron) of the entire city.

Figurative Use

This meaning extends the idea of the ceremonial 'godfather' to mean anyone who holds power and gives protection or assistance to another person or project.

guardián

/gwar-dee-AHN//ɡwaɾˈðjan/

nounC1general
Opt for 'guardián' when the meaning is closer to a keeper or guardian of something valuable, like traditions, secrets, or a place.
An elderly woman with kind eyes gently holds a large, antique rolled parchment scroll close to her chest, symbolizing the protection of tradition.

Examples

El anciano era el guardián de los secretos del pueblo.

The old man was the guardian of the town's secrets.

La iglesia se considera el guardián de la fe.

The church is considered the custodian of the faith.

Metaphorical Use

This definition of 'guardián' is often used to refer to non-people (like organizations or concepts) that protect something abstract.

Cliente vs. Protector/Padrino

The most common mistake is using 'cliente' when you mean someone who supports or sponsors you. Remember, 'cliente' specifically refers to a customer in a business transaction. Use 'protector' or 'padrino' for financial or influential backing.

Related Translations

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