How to Say "relevance" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “relevance” is “actualidad” — use 'actualidad' when referring to something that is current, topical, or happening right now, often translated as 'the present time' or 'news'..
actualidad
/ak-twah-lee-dahth//aktwaliˈðad/
Examples
En la actualidad, muchas personas prefieren trabajar desde casa.
Currently, many people prefer to work from home.
Me gusta leer el periódico para estar al tanto de la actualidad.
I like to read the newspaper to keep up with current events.
Es un tema de gran actualidad en nuestra sociedad.
It is a very topical issue (a theme of great relevance) in our society.
Always Feminine
This word is always feminine. You should always use 'la' or 'una' with it, even though it ends in '-dad'.
The '-dad' Pattern
Most Spanish words ending in '-dad' correspond to English words ending in '-ty' (like 'city' / 'ciudad'), but be careful—this one doesn't match 'actuality'!
The 'Actuality' Trap
Mistake: “Using 'en actualidad' to mean 'actually' or 'in reality'.”
Correction: Use 'en realidad' for 'actually.' Use 'en la actualidad' only when you mean 'in the present day'.
relevancia
/reh-leh-bahn-syah//releˈβansja/
Examples
Esta información no tiene relevancia para el caso.
This information has no relevance to the case.
El tema ha cobrado gran relevancia en los últimos días.
The topic has gained great significance in recent days.
Es un asunto de suma relevancia para el futuro del país.
It is a matter of utmost importance for the country's future.
Always Feminine
This word ends in '-ia,' which usually means it is a feminine noun. You should always use 'la' or 'una' with it.
Using 'para'
When you want to say something is relevant 'to' or 'for' something, Spanish usually uses the word 'para'.
Spelling with 'v'
Mistake: “relebancia”
Correction: relevancia (it is always written with a 'v', like 'relevant' in English).
conexión
Examples
Sentí una fuerte conexión emocional con el personaje del libro.
I felt a strong emotional connection with the character in the book.
vigencia
/bee-HEN-syah//biˈxenθja/
Examples
El pasaporte tiene una vigencia de diez años.
The passport has a validity of ten years.
Esa ley ya no tiene vigencia en este país.
That law is no longer in effect in this country.
Sus teorías científicas aún mantienen su vigencia.
His scientific theories still remain relevant today.
Using 'tener' vs. 'estar'
To say something is currently valid, we usually say it 'has validity' (tiene vigencia) rather than 'is validity'.
Abstract Noun Usage
This word describes the state of being active or 'alive' for a rule or document. It is always feminine.
Validity vs. Validation
Mistake: “La validación del pasaporte es de cinco años.”
Correction: La vigencia del pasaporte es de cinco años. 'Validación' is the act of making something valid; 'vigencia' is the time it stays valid.
significación
Examples
Este descubrimiento tiene una gran significación para la medicina.
This discovery has great significance for medicine.
Actualidad vs. Relevancia
Related Translations
Learn Spanish with Inklingo
Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.