Inklingo

How to Say "victory" in Spanish

English → Spanish

victoria

bik-TO-ree-ah/bikˈto.ɾja/

nounA1general
Use 'victoria' for a general triumph, especially one achieved against opposition or in a contest, like winning a battle or a significant match.
A smiling, triumphant character stands on a small, simple winner's podium, holding a large, shiny gold trophy high above their head.

Examples

El equipo celebró una gran victoria después del partido.

The team celebrated a great victory after the match.

La victoria sobre la enfermedad fue su mayor logro.

The triumph over the illness was her greatest achievement.

Necesitamos esta victoria para pasar a la final.

We need this win to get to the final.

Always Feminine

'Victoria' is always a feminine noun, so you must use the feminine articles 'la' (the) or 'una' (a/an) before it, and feminine adjectives to describe it (e.g., 'una victoria clara', a clear victory).

triunfo

TREE-oon-foh/ˈtɾiunfo/

nounB1general
Choose 'triunfo' when referring to a success or win, particularly in sports, games, or any kind of competition where a clear winner emerges.
A storybook illustration showing a person standing on the highest step of a winner's podium, holding a gold cup high above their head, signifying victory.

Examples

El equipo celebró el triunfo con una fiesta enorme.

The team celebrated the victory with a huge party.

Su mayor triunfo fue terminar la universidad mientras trabajaba a tiempo completo.

His greatest triumph was finishing university while working full-time.

Obtener la beca fue un triunfo personal para ella.

Getting the scholarship was a personal triumph for her.

Gender Check

Remember that 'triunfo' is a masculine noun, so you must always use 'el' or 'un' before it: 'el triunfo'.

palma

/PAHL-mah//ˈpalma/

nounC1figurative
Use 'palma' metaphorically to signify being the best or winning a top prize, often used when something stands out as the ultimate achievement.
A gold trophy cup standing on a podium.

Examples

Esta película se llevó la palma en el festival.

This movie took the prize at the festival.

Historical Symbolism

This meaning comes from ancient times when a palm branch was given as a symbol of victory.

General vs. Specific Wins

Learners often confuse 'victoria' and 'triunfo'. While both mean 'victory' or 'win', 'victoria' is more general and can apply to overcoming opposition, whereas 'triunfo' is more specific to competitive successes like in sports. 'Palma' is usually figurative, meaning 'the prize' or 'the best'.

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