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How to Say "satisfaction" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word forsatisfactionis satisfacciónuse 'satisfacción' when referring to a personal feeling of fulfillment or accomplishment, often internal..

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satisfacción

nounB1general
Use 'satisfacción' when referring to a personal feeling of fulfillment or accomplishment, often internal.

Examples

Sentí una enorme satisfacción al ver que mis alumnos aprobaron el examen.

I felt enormous satisfaction seeing that my students passed the exam.

contento

kohn-TEHN-toh/konˈtento/

nounB1general
Use 'contento' to describe a state of joy or contentment, often observable in a group or as a general atmosphere.
A person sitting peacefully in a comfortable armchair next to a window, holding a cup of tea, expressing deep contentment.

Examples

El contento de la multitud era visible tras la victoria.

The contentment/joy of the crowd was visible after the victory.

Busca el contento en las cosas sencillas.

Seek satisfaction/joy in simple things.

Abstract Noun Usage

As a noun, 'el contento' refers to the general, abstract feeling of contentment and always stays in the masculine singular form.

Direct vs. Expressed Fulfillment

Learners often confuse 'satisfacción' and 'contento' by using 'contento' for any feeling of satisfaction. Remember that 'satisfacción' is the more direct translation for the abstract feeling, while 'contento' often implies a more visible or shared sense of joy or happiness.

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