How to Say "to welcome" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “to welcome” is “acoger” — use 'acoger' when you are receiving someone warmly into your home, community, or group, often with a sense of protection or hospitality..
acoger
/ah-ko-HER//akoˈxeɾ/
Examples
La familia decidió acoger a un estudiante de intercambio.
The family decided to welcome an exchange student.
El público acogió la noticia con mucha alegría.
The public received the news with great joy.
Este centro acoge a perros abandonados.
This center takes in abandoned dogs.
The 'G' to 'J' spelling change
When 'acoger' is followed by an 'o' or 'a' sound (like in the first person 'I' form), the 'g' changes to 'j' to keep the raspy sound consistent: 'yo acojo'.
Using the reflexive form
When you use 'acogerse a', it usually means to rely on or take refuge in something official, like a law or a benefit: 'acogerse a una ley'.
Spelling 'acojo' with a 'g'
Mistake: “Yo acogo.”
Correction: Yo acojo. Remember, 'g' before 'o' sounds like the 'g' in 'go', but 'acoger' needs that raspy 'h' sound throughout its forms!
aplaudir
ah-plow-DEER/aplawˈðiɾ/
Examples
La ONU aplaudió el nuevo tratado de paz.
The UN praised the new peace treaty.
Muchos ciudadanos aplauden la bajada de impuestos.
Many citizens welcome the tax cut.
Abstract Clapping
This usage is metaphorical; you aren't literally hitting your hands, you are expressing verbal or written support.
Confusion with literal meaning
Acoger vs. Aplaudir
Related Translations
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