Inklingo

How to Say "poignant" in Spanish

English → Spanish

conmovedor

kon-mo-beh-DORkommoðeˈðoɾ

adjectiveB1general
Use 'conmovedor' when 'poignant' refers to something that evokes a strong emotional response, often sadness, tenderness, or deep feeling, in a touching way.
A small, fluffy kitten being gently cradled in the hands of a person, showing a moment of tenderness.

Examples

La historia de la amistad entre los dos personajes fue increíblemente conmovedora.

The story of the friendship between the two characters was incredibly moving.

La película tuvo un final muy conmovedor.

The movie had a very touching ending.

Escuchamos un relato conmovedor sobre la vida de los refugiados.

We heard a moving story about the lives of the refugees.

Fue conmovedor ver a los dos hermanos reunirse después de tantos años.

It was heart-stirring to see the two brothers reunite after so many years.

Adding 'a' for Feminine

Unlike adjectives ending in 'e' (like 'triste'), words ending in 'dor' need an 'a' at the end when describing feminine things. Use 'conmovedor' for masculine and 'conmovedora' for feminine.

Placement for Emphasis

Usually, this word goes after the thing it describes (un libro conmovedor). If you put it before (un conmovedor libro), it sounds more poetic and emphasizes the emotion.

Using 'emocionante' for 'moving'

Mistake: “La película fue muy emocionante (when you mean it made you cry).”

Correction: La película fue muy conmovedora.

patético

adjectiveC1general
Use 'patético' when 'poignant' implies evoking sadness or regret, often with a sense of pity or being pathetic; it carries a stronger negative connotation than 'conmovedor'.

Examples

Su intento fallido de impresionar a la audiencia resultó ser un momento patético.

His failed attempt to impress the audience turned out to be a pathetic moment.

Choosing Between 'Conmovedor' and 'Patético'

Learners often confuse 'conmovedor' and 'patético' because both can relate to sadness. Remember that 'conmovedor' is generally positive or neutral, focusing on being deeply touching, while 'patético' leans towards evoking pity or a sense of something being pitifully sad.

Related Translations

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