Inklingo

How to Say "victor" in Spanish

English → Spanish

ganador

gah-nah-DOR/ga.naˈðoɾ/

nounA2formal/historical
Use 'ganador' for the person who wins a competition, game, or race in a general or slightly formal context.
A smiling athlete standing on the top step of a victory podium holding a large gold trophy above their head.

Examples

El ganador de la carrera levantó el trofeo.

The winner of the race lifted the trophy.

¿Quién fue el ganador del debate anoche?

Who was the winner of the debate last night?

El equipo necesita un ganador, no solo un buen jugador.

The team needs a winner, not just a good player.

Gender Change

This word changes gender to match the person: 'ganador' is for a masculine winner, and 'ganadora' is for a feminine winner.

Confusing Noun and Verb

Mistake: “Using the verb form when you need the noun: 'Él es el ganar.'”

Correction: Use the noun form: 'Él es el ganador.' (He is the winner.)

ganadora

/gah-nah-DOR-ah//ɡanaˈðoɾa/

nounA1more formal context for someone who triumphs
Use 'ganadora' specifically for a female winner in a context that might be more formal or emphasize triumph, such as a raffle or a significant award.
A happy woman holding a gold trophy over her head.

Examples

La ganadora del sorteo recibirá un viaje a España.

The winner of the raffle will receive a trip to Spain.

Ella fue la ganadora indiscutible de la carrera.

She was the undisputed winner of the race.

Feminine Ending

This word ends in 'a' because it specifically refers to a female winner. If you were talking about a male winner, you would use 'ganador'.

Gender Agreement

Mistake: “El ganadora”

Correction: La ganadora (or El ganador). Always match the 'the' (article) with the gender of the person.

victor

BEEK-tor/ˈbiktoɾ/

nounC1formal
Use 'victor' in very formal or literary contexts, often referring to a conqueror or someone who has achieved a major victory, especially in historical or epic settings.
A triumphant stylized figure standing on the highest step of a podium, raising a large golden trophy high above their head.

Examples

El victor fue recibido con honores a su regreso de la batalla.

The victor was received with honors upon his return from battle.

Solo un victor puede reclamar este premio.

Only a victor can claim this prize.

Masculine Noun

As a noun, 'victor' is always masculine, meaning you use 'el' before it (el victor) and the plural is 'los víctores'.

Choosing between 'ganador' and 'victor'

Learners often overuse 'victor' in everyday Spanish, mistaking its formality for a general term for 'winner.' Stick to 'ganador' for most situations; 'victor' is rare and sounds very literary or archaic.

Related Translations

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