Inklingo

How to Say "to violate" in Spanish

English → Spanish

romper

/rrohm-pehr//roˈmpeɾ/

verbB1general
Use this word when referring to breaking a rule, law, or agreement in a general sense.
A small, friendly character deliberately stepping over a thick, bright red line painted on a green ground, symbolizing crossing a boundary.

Examples

Si rompes el código de conducta, serás sancionado.

If you violate the code of conduct, you will be penalized.

Ella rompió el silencio con una pregunta incómoda.

She broke the silence with an awkward question.

Lamento romper mi promesa, pero es necesario.

I regret breaking my promise, but it is necessary.

Transitive Use

In this context, 'romper' requires a direct object—you must break something (a rule, a promise, silence).

ofender

oh-fen-DEHR/o.fenˈdeɾ/

verbB2formal
This is used when someone infringes upon or disrespects a rule, law, or norm, often implying a transgression.
A storybook illustration of a curious fox deliberately stepping over a thick, bright red line painted on the ground, illustrating the violation of a boundary or rule.

Examples

El conductor fue multado por ofender las normas de tráfico.

The driver was fined for violating the traffic rules.

La empresa fue acusada de ofender los derechos laborales.

The company was accused of violating labor rights.

violar

/bee-oh-LAHR//bjoˈlaɾ/

verbB2formal
This term specifically refers to the violation of treaties, laws, or sacred spaces; it can also mean to rape.
A person's legs stepping over a low wooden fence next to a red circle symbol with a white bar.

Examples

La empresa violó el contrato de exclusividad.

The company violated the exclusivity contract.

Nadie tiene derecho a violar tu privacidad.

Nobody has the right to violate your privacy.

Using the Direct Object

When you use 'violar' to mean breaking a rule, the thing being broken (like 'the law') comes directly after the verb without any special connectors.

Choosing the right 'Break'

Mistake: “Using 'romper' for laws.”

Correction: Use 'violar' or 'quebrantar' for laws and rules; 'romper' is usually for physical objects.

violentar

verbB2informal
Use this word when something infringes on someone's privacy, principles, or causes them discomfort or unease.

Examples

Esa pregunta me violenta un poco.

That question makes me feel a bit uneasy/awkward.

Distinguishing 'violar' from other terms

Learners often confuse 'violar' with 'romper' or 'ofender'. Remember that 'violar' is typically used for more serious legal or treaty breaches, or in the context of sexual assault, whereas 'romper' and 'ofender' are more general for rules and laws.

Related Translations

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.