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How to Say "the elite" in Spanish

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poderosos

poh-deh-ROH-sohs/poðeˈɾosos/

nounB2general
Use 'los poderosos' to refer to the group of people who hold significant influence or control, often in politics or business, and are seen as a ruling or decision-making class.
Two figures wearing simple crowns and formal robes sitting on large, ornate thrones elevated above the ground, symbolizing their authority and rule.

Examples

Los poderosos del mundo se reunirán para discutir la crisis.

The world's powerful (leaders) will meet to discuss the crisis.

Es difícil luchar contra los intereses de los poderosos.

It is difficult to fight against the interests of the powerful.

Adjective as Noun

This happens when you put the definite article ('los' or 'las') right before an adjective. It means 'the [adjective] ones.' Here, 'los poderosos' stands for 'the powerful people' without needing to say the word 'people'.

burguesía

nounB2political, critical
Choose 'la burguesía' when referring specifically to the upper middle class or the wealthy capitalist class, often used in a critical or political context, especially when discussing historical or economic systems.

Examples

La burguesía surgió como una clase poderosa durante la Revolución Industrial.

The bourgeoisie emerged as a powerful class during the Industrial Revolution.

Distinguishing 'poderosos' from 'burguesía'

Learners often confuse 'los poderosos' and 'la burguesía'. Remember that 'los poderosos' is broader, referring to any influential group, while 'la burguesía' is more specific, denoting the wealthy capitalist class, often with political or critical undertones.

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