Inklingo

How to Say "proud" in Spanish

English → Spanish

orgulloso

/or-goo-YOH-soh//oɾ.ɣuˈʎo.so/

adjectiveA2general
Use 'orgulloso' when expressing a positive feeling of satisfaction or deep pleasure derived from one's own or another's achievements, qualities, or possessions.
A young child standing proudly next to a large, colorful block tower they just built, beaming with satisfaction.

Examples

Estoy muy orgulloso de tus logros académicos.

I am very proud of your academic achievements.

Mi abuela siempre fue una mujer muy orgullosa de su familia.

My grandmother was always a woman very proud of her family.

Los padres estaban orgullosos de ver a su hija graduarse.

The parents were proud to see their daughter graduate.

Agreement is Key

Since 'orgulloso' is a descriptive word, it must change its ending to match the person feeling the emotion: orgulloso (male), orgullosa (female), orgullosos (plural male), orgullosas (plural female).

Use 'Estar', Not 'Ser'

When talking about feeling proud (a temporary emotion or state), you must use the verb 'estar'. (e.g., 'Estoy orgulloso de ti.')

Wrong Preposition

Mistake: “Estoy orgulloso por ti.”

Correction: Estoy orgulloso de ti. ('Orgulloso' is always followed by the preposition 'de' (of) to introduce the reason for the pride.)

ancho

/AHN-cho//ˈantʃo/

adjectiveB2informal
Use 'ancho' to describe someone acting overly self-satisfied, unconcerned, or nonchalant, often in a way that implies they are unaffected by criticism or negative situations.
A person standing tall with their chest out and a satisfied smile on their face.

Examples

Le dijo que no pensaba volver y se quedó tan ancho.

He told her he wasn't planning to return and acted completely unbothered.

Confusing satisfaction with nonchalance

The most common mistake is using 'ancho' when you mean 'orgulloso'. Remember, 'orgulloso' is about positive pride in accomplishments, while 'ancho' implies an unbothered, almost smug, attitude.

Related Translations

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