Inklingo

How to Say "sorcery" in Spanish

English → Spanish

magia

MA-hiah (like mah-hee-ah)ˈma.xja

NounA1General
Use 'magia' when referring to magic in a general sense, especially in contexts like fiction, entertainment, or illusions, rather than historical or serious witchcraft.
A storybook illustration of a wizard in a blue hat and robes, standing in a forest clearing, holding a glowing green orb that emits bright sparks.

Examples

Creemos que la magia existe solo en las películas.

We believe that magic only exists in movies.

El niño se asombró con el truco de magia del payaso.

The boy was amazed by the clown's magic trick.

Ella estudió magia negra en secreto para volverse más fuerte.

She secretly studied black magic to become stronger.

Gender Rule

'Magia' is always feminine, so you must use 'la magia' or 'una magia'. Remember that most Spanish words ending in '-a' are feminine.

brujería

NounB1Formal/Historical
Choose 'brujería' when discussing witchcraft in a historical context, or when referring to the practice of magic with a negative or superstitious connotation.

Examples

En la Edad Media, mucha gente tenía miedo a la brujería.

In the Middle Ages, many people were afraid of witchcraft.

Magia vs. Brujería

Learners often use 'magia' for all types of sorcery. Remember that while 'magia' can mean 'magic' broadly, 'brujería' is specifically 'witchcraft,' often with historical or negative associations. Use 'magia' for fictional magic and 'brujería' for historical or superstitious witchcraft.

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