How to Say "violation" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “violation” is “infracción” — use this word when referring to the breaking of a specific rule, regulation, or minor law, often in a formal or legal context.
infracción
Examples
No puedes estacionar aquí, es una infracción.
You can't park here; it's a violation.
violación
Examples
La violación de los derechos humanos es un problema global.
The violation of human rights is a global problem.
abuso
ah-BOO-sohaˈβuso
Examples
La organización denunció el abuso infantil.
The organization reported child abuse.
El director fue acusado de abuso de autoridad.
The director was accused of abuse of authority (misuse of power).
Noun/Adjective Combinations
When using 'abuso' in a serious context, it is almost always followed by an adjective or another noun (connected by 'de') to specify the type of mistreatment: 'abuso verbal', 'abuso físico'.
ofensa
oh-FEN-sahoˈfensa
Examples
No fue mi intención causarte ninguna ofensa.
It wasn't my intention to cause you any offense.
Él tomó su silencio como una ofensa personal.
He took her silence as a personal insult.
Proferir una ofensa contra el rey es un asunto serio en algunos países.
Uttering an insult against the king is a serious matter in some countries.
Gender and Articles
This is a feminine noun. Even though the person receiving the offense might be a man, the word always uses 'la' or 'una' (e.g., 'la ofensa').
Verbs that pair with ofensa
To say 'to give/cause an offense,' Spanish speakers usually use 'hacer' (to make) or 'causar' (to cause).
Ofensa vs. Delito
Mistake: “Using 'ofensa' to describe a car accident or a theft.”
Correction: In Spanish, 'ofensa' usually refers to pride or feelings. For legal crimes or breaking laws, use 'delito' or 'infracción'.
lesión
Examples
Hubo una lesión de sus derechos fundamentales.
There was a violation of their fundamental rights.
Confusing 'Infracción' and 'Violación'
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