Inklingo

How to Say "prominence" in Spanish

English → Spanish

protagonismo

/pro-ta-go-NEE-smo//pɾotaɣoˈnizmo/

nounB2general
Use 'protagonismo' when referring to having a leading role or being the main focus in a situation, event, or field.
A lead performer standing in the center of a stage under a bright yellow spotlight while others stand in the dim background.

Examples

El actor principal tuvo un gran protagonismo en la película.

The main actor had great prominence in the movie.

Las redes sociales han cobrado un gran protagonismo en la política actual.

Social media has taken on a prominent role in modern politics.

No quiero quitarte el protagonismo en tu día especial.

I don't want to take the spotlight away from you on your special day.

El delantero recuperó su protagonismo tras marcar tres goles.

The forward regained his leading role after scoring three goals.

Nouns ending in -ismo

Words ending in '-ismo' in Spanish are almost always masculine, just like this one (el protagonismo).

Abstract vs. Concrete

This word describes the 'state' of being a leader or focus. If you want to talk about the person themselves, use 'protagonista'.

Person vs. Role

Mistake: “Él es el protagonismo de la película.”

Correction: Él es el protagonista de la película. Use 'protagonista' for the person and 'protagonismo' for the importance or attention they receive.

relieve

/reh-LYEH-beh//reˈljeβe/

nounB2general
Use 'relieve' when you want to emphasize or highlight something, making it stand out or become noticeable, often in the context of information or findings.
A single bright red bird sitting on a branch among many grey birds.

Examples

La conferencia puso de relieve la importancia de la sostenibilidad.

The conference highlighted the importance of sustainability.

El informe puso de relieve la falta de inversión en educación.

The report highlighted the lack of investment in education.

Sus logros científicos le dieron un gran relieve internacional.

Her scientific achievements gave her great international prominence.

El problema cobró relieve tras las protestas del lunes.

The problem gained importance after Monday's protests.

The phrase 'poner de relieve'

This is a very common way to say 'to highlight' or 'to emphasize' an idea. Think of it as 'lifting' an idea so everyone can see it.

Missing the 'de'

Mistake: “Poner relieve los problemas.”

Correction: Poner de relieve los problemas. (In this specific phrase, the word 'de' is always required).

Protagonismo vs. Relieve

Learners often confuse 'protagonismo' and 'relieve' by using 'protagonismo' when something is merely highlighted, rather than actively taking a leading role. Remember, 'protagonismo' implies agency or a central function, while 'relieve' is about making something noticeable.

Related Translations

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