How to Say "protégé" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “protégé” is “protegido” — use 'protegido' when referring to someone who is being guided, helped, or looked after by an older or more experienced person, implying a broader sense of being under someone's care or influence..
protegido
proh-teh-HEE-doh/pɾoteˈxiðo/
Examples
El joven actor era el protegido de la directora de la compañía.
The young actor was the protégé of the company director.
El joven artista era el protegido de la famosa escultora.
The young artist was the protégé of the famous sculptress.
El director siempre defendía a su protegido en las reuniones.
The director always defended his ward (or protégé) in the meetings.
Feminine Form
The feminine form of the noun is 'la protegida' (the female protégé or ward). The meaning remains the same, only the gender changes.
protege
proh-TEH-heh/pɾoˈt̪exe/
Examples
El joven artista es el protege del famoso pintor.
The young artist is the protégé of the famous painter.
Ella fue su protege durante la última década.
She was his protégé during the last decade.
Gender Note
Although the noun is borrowed from French, it is commonly used for both men and women in Spanish. You can use 'el protege' or 'la protege' depending on the gender of the person.
Choosing between 'protegido' and 'protege'
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