Inklingo

How to Say "riches" in Spanish

English → Spanish

riqueza

ree-KEH-sah/riˈke.θa/

nounB1
Use 'riqueza' when referring to a general state of being wealthy or the accumulation of money and valuable assets over time, often through business or investment.
A large, open wooden treasure chest overflowing with shiny gold coins and sparkling colorful jewels.

Examples

La familia construyó su riqueza a través de la inversión inmobiliaria.

The family built their wealth through real estate investment.

No todo es la riqueza material; la felicidad es más importante.

It's not all about material riches; happiness is more important.

El país tiene una gran riqueza en recursos naturales.

The country has great wealth in natural resources.

Feminine Noun Rule

Even though 'riqueza' ends in -a, remember it is always feminine, so you must use 'la riqueza' or 'una riqueza'.

fortuna

for-TOO-nah/foɾˈtuna/

nounB1
Opt for 'fortuna' when emphasizing a vast amount of wealth, especially if it was acquired suddenly or is exceptionally large, like a windfall or a massive business success.
A huge overflowing pile of shining gold coins spilling out of a sturdy wooden treasure chest, representing great wealth.

Examples

El empresario amasó una gran fortuna vendiendo tecnología.

The businessman amassed a great fortune selling technology.

Cuesta una fortuna viajar en primera clase.

It costs a fortune to travel in first class.

Sus abuelos le dejaron una pequeña fortuna.

His grandparents left him a small fortune.

Context is Key

When 'fortuna' is used with verbs like 'gastar' (to spend) or 'costar' (to cost), it almost always refers to money or wealth, not luck.

Fortuna vs. Riqueza

Learners often use 'fortuna' for any kind of wealth, but it specifically denotes a very large or sudden accumulation. Use 'riqueza' for the general concept of being rich or for wealth built steadily over time.

Related Translations

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