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How to Say "prince" in Spanish

English → Spanish

príncipe

nounA1formal
Use 'príncipe' for the general royal title of a prince, especially a crown prince or a son of a monarch, in most contexts.

Examples

El príncipe heredero asistió a la ceremonia.

The crown prince attended the ceremony.

infante

een-FAHN-tehinˈfante

nounB2formal
Use 'infante' specifically for a prince who holds the historical title 'Infante' in the royal families of Spain or Portugal.
A young royal boy wearing a simple golden crown and a red velvet cape, standing in a regal pose.

Examples

El infante saludó a los ciudadanos desde el balcón.

The prince greeted the citizens from the balcony.

En España, el hijo del rey que no es heredero recibe el título de infante.

In Spain, the king's son who is not the heir receives the title of prince.

Los documentos históricos mencionan la importancia del infante en la corte.

Historical documents mention the importance of the prince in the court.

Titles and Articles

When talking about a specific royal, use 'el' before 'infante' (e.g., 'el infante Don Juan'). You only drop the 'el' when you are speaking directly to him.

Prince vs. Infante

Mistake: “Calling the direct heir to the Spanish throne 'el infante'.”

Correction: The direct heir is called 'el Príncipe de Asturias'. Use 'infante' for the other siblings.

General vs. Specific Royal Titles

Learners often mistakenly use 'infante' for any prince. Remember that 'príncipe' is the standard term for 'prince' in most situations, while 'infante' is a specialized historical title used only in Spain and Portugal.

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