Inklingo

How to Say "privilege" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “privilege” is “privilegio” — use 'privilegio' when referring to a special right or advantage that someone possesses, especially in a social or political context, or when discussing rights that should be universal.

English → Spanish

privilegio

pree-bee-LEH-heeohpɾi.βiˈle.xjo

nounB1
Use 'privilegio' when referring to a special right or advantage that someone possesses, especially in a social or political context, or when discussing rights that should be universal.
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.

honor

oh-NORoˈnoɾ

nounA2formal
Use 'honor' when the 'privilege' is about a feeling of deep respect or a special distinction being bestowed upon someone.
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.

honra

OHN-rahˈon.ra

nounB1formal
Use 'honra' when the 'privilege' is something that brings distinction and is a source of pride or recognition.
A person wearing traditional colorful clothing, smiling warmly while holding their national flower.

Examples

Es una honra para mí recibir este premio.

It is an honor/privilege for me to receive this award.

Soy campesino, a mucha honra.

I am a farmer, and proud of it.

Se celebraron las honras fúnebres en la catedral.

The funeral rites were held in the cathedral.

Using the plural

When talking about ceremonies or showing respect to someone who has passed away, the word usually changes to the plural form: 'honras'.

Translating 'Pride'

Mistake: “Always using 'orgullo' for pride.”

Correction: Use 'honra' (specifically 'a mucha honra') when you want to sound more defiant or deeply respectful of your roots.

lujo

LOO-hoˈluxo

nounB1
Use 'lujo' when the 'privilege' refers to something rare, special, or a great comfort that is not commonly available.
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).

Privilegio vs. Honor/Honra

Learners often confuse 'privilegio' with 'honor' or 'honra'. Remember that 'privilegio' refers to a specific right or advantage, while 'honor' and 'honra' emphasize the feeling of distinction or respect associated with an event or position.

Related Translations

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