Inklingo

How to Say "privilege" in Spanish

English → Spanish

privilegio

/pree-bee-LEH-heeoh//pɾi.βiˈle.xjo/

nounB1general
Use this word when referring to a special right or advantage that is often unearned or considered a benefit, like access to resources or a particular status.
A smiling cartoon figure standing on a small, brightly lit pedestal, signifying a special advantage or right.

Examples

El acceso al agua potable no debería ser un privilegio, sino un derecho universal.

Access to drinking water shouldn't be a privilege, but a universal right.

Solo los miembros de la junta directiva tienen el privilegio de usar el ascensor privado.

Only members of the board of directors have the privilege of using the private elevator.

Sus contactos políticos le dieron muchos privilegios.

His political contacts gave him many advantages (privileges).

Masculine Noun

Even though it ends in '-o', remember that 'privilegio' is always a masculine word, so you must use 'el' or 'un' before it.

Confusing Gender

Mistake: “La privilegio”

Correction: El privilegio. Spanish nouns have a set gender (masculine or feminine). This one is masculine.

lujo

/LOO-ho//ˈluxo/

nounB1general
Choose this word when 'privilege' refers to something very special, rare, or enjoyable that is not a basic necessity, similar to the English word 'luxury'.
A towering, decadent chocolate ice cream sundae in a fancy glass, topped with whipped cream and a bright red cherry.

Examples

Para un escritor, el silencio es un lujo.

For a writer, silence is a luxury/privilege.

Me di el lujo de dormir hasta tarde hoy.

I gave myself the treat/indulgence of sleeping in late today.

¿Trabajar cuatro días a la semana? ¡Qué lujo!

Working four days a week? What a privilege!

Using 'darse el lujo'

The phrase 'darse el lujo de...' means 'to allow yourself the treat of...' or 'to indulge in...'. The verb following 'de' is always in the base form (infinitive).

honor

/oh-NOR//oˈnoɾ/

nounA2general
Use this word when 'privilege' implies a special honor, distinction, or a matter of great pride, often associated with being recognized or esteemed.
A smiling character on a small stage receiving a golden, ornate scroll under a bright spotlight, symbolizing a special privilege or honor.

Examples

Es un honor estar aquí con ustedes.

It's an honor to be here with you.

El honor es todo mío.

The honor is all mine.

Tengo el honor de presentarles a nuestro próximo orador.

I have the honor of presenting our next speaker.

Privilegio vs. Lujo vs. Honor

Learners often confuse 'privilegio' with 'lujo'. Remember that 'privilegio' refers to a right or advantage, while 'lujo' implies something rare and enjoyable, like a luxury. 'Honor' is used when the privilege is a matter of great pride or distinction.

Related Translations

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