Inklingo

How to Say "unauthorized" in Spanish

English → Spanish

irregular

ee-rre-goo-larireɣuˈlaɾ

adjectiveB2official status
Use 'irregular' when referring to something that lacks official sanction, is not in accordance with rules or regulations, or is improper in a formal or official setting.
A person wearing a dark cloak sneaking past a closed gate with a large lock.

Examples

La policía investiga una situación irregular en la empresa.

The police are investigating an improper situation at the company.

Muchos inmigrantes están en situación irregular.

Many immigrants are in an undocumented/unauthorized status.

Hubo un manejo irregular de los fondos públicos.

There was a mishandling of public funds.

Softening Legal Terms

In Spanish, 'irregular' is often used as a slightly softer or more technical way to say 'illegal' when talking about paperwork or immigration status.

pirata

pee-RAH-tahpiˈɾata

adjectiveB2general illegal activity
Use 'pirata' when referring to something that is illegally copied or distributed, especially in contexts like software, media, or counterfeit goods.
A pile of cheap, identical, unlabeled DVD cases stacked haphazardly on a wooden crate, representing pirated goods.

Examples

Compró una copia pirata de la película en el mercado.

He bought a pirated copy of the movie at the market.

Ese taxista es un pirata; no tiene licencia para trabajar.

That taxi driver is unauthorized; he doesn't have a license to work. (Figurative: acting like a rogue/outlaw)

Adjective Agreement

When used as an adjective, 'pirata' is one of those words that stays the same regardless of whether the thing it describes is masculine (software pirata) or feminine (copia pirata). It also stays the same in plural (películas piratas).

Changing the Ending

Mistake: “Usando un software pirato.”

Correction: The word is 'pirata' whether the noun is masculine or feminine: 'Usando un software pirata'.

Irregular vs. Pirata

Learners often confuse 'irregular' and 'pirata' because both imply something is not legitimate. Remember that 'irregular' relates to a breach of rules or improper conduct in a formal context, while 'pirata' specifically refers to illegal copying or distribution.

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