Inklingo

How to Say "pledge" in Spanish

English → Spanish

empeño

nounB2general
Use 'empeño' when referring to leaving an item as collateral for a loan, often implying a temporary exchange for money.

Examples

Dejé mi anillo en empeño para conseguir dinero rápido.

I left my ring in pawn to get quick money.

prenda

PREN-dahˈpɾenda

nounB2formal
Use 'prenda' specifically when an item is given as security or guarantee for a debt or loan, emphasizing its role as collateral.
A heavy golden key resting on a velvet cushion.

Examples

El coche sirve como prenda para el crédito hipotecario.

The car serves as collateral for the mortgage loan.

Dejó su reloj en prenda para pagar la deuda.

He left his watch as a pledge to pay the debt.

Te doy este anillo en prenda de mi amor.

I give you this ring as a token of my love.

En el juego, los que pierden tienen que entregar una prenda.

In the game, those who lose have to hand over a forfeit (an object).

Using 'en prenda'

Use the phrase 'en prenda' when you want to say something is being used as collateral or a guarantee.

voto

VOH-tohˈbo.to

nounB2formal
Choose 'voto' for a serious, often public or religious, commitment or promise, like a vow taken by monks or a promise made to oneself.
An illustration showing two hands clasped together tightly, symbolizing a solemn promise or vow.

Examples

Hizo un voto de silencio durante su peregrinación.

He made a vow of silence during his pilgrimage.

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'.

Empeño vs. Prenda

Learners often confuse 'empeño' and 'prenda' because both relate to using an item as security. Remember that 'empeño' is more common for pawning an item for cash, while 'prenda' is a more general term for collateral or security for a debt.

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