Inklingo

How to Say "privacy" in Spanish

English → Spanish

privacidad

pree-vah-see-DAHD/pɾi.βa.θiˈðað/

nounB2general
Use this word for the general concept of being undisturbed or keeping personal information safe, especially in digital contexts.
A peaceful scene showing a child sitting cross-legged inside a cozy blanket fort, reading a book by the light of a small, soft lantern. The child is completely undisturbed.

Examples

Tenemos que proteger nuestra privacidad en línea.

We have to protect our privacy online.

La ley garantiza el derecho a la privacidad de los ciudadanos.

The law guarantees the citizens' right to privacy.

Busco un lugar con más privacidad para hablar tranquilamente.

I am looking for a place with more privacy to talk quietly.

Always Feminine

Like most Spanish words that end in '-dad' (such as 'ciudad' or 'libertad'), 'privacidad' is always a feminine noun. You must use 'la' or 'una' with it.

Gender Confusion

Mistake: “El privacidad”

Correction: La privacidad. Remember the '-dad' ending is a strong clue that the word is feminine.

intimidad

/een-tee-mee-DAHD//inti.miˈðað/

nounB1general
Choose this term when referring to the right to keep your personal life, feelings, and private affairs secret from others.
A person sitting comfortably in a cozy reading nook with a tall wooden fence and lush green bushes providing a secluded space.

Examples

Es importante respetar la intimidad de las personas.

It is important to respect people's privacy.

Cenaron en la intimidad de su casa.

They had dinner in the privacy of their home.

Hay una gran intimidad entre los dos hermanos.

There is a great intimacy/closeness between the two brothers.

Always Feminine

Words ending in '-dad' are almost always feminine. Always use 'la' or 'una' with this word.

Intimidad vs. Privacidad

Mistake: “Using 'privacidad' for everything related to being alone.”

Correction: While 'privacidad' is common now (especially online), 'intimidad' is the more traditional Spanish word for your 'private life' or emotional closeness.

discreción

nounB1general
Use this word when you mean the act of keeping quiet about something or being discreet with sensitive information.

Examples

Valoro mucho tu discreción con este secreto.

I really value your discretion with this secret.

Privacidad vs. Intimidad

Learners often confuse 'privacidad' and 'intimidad'. 'Privacidad' is broader, covering online safety and general peace, while 'intimidad' focuses on personal, emotional, and intimate aspects of one's life.

Related Translations

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.