caridad
/kaɾiˈdad/feminine
The English word 'charity' is translated into Spanish as caridad.
caridad refers to the virtue of benevolence or the act of giving to those less fortunate. It is important to note that while it describes the concept of charity, it is not the word typically used to refer to a 'charity organization'. For an organization, you would usually use organización benéfica or ONG.
Meaning: benevolence to less fortunate (noun)
Which one should you use?
caridad refers to the virtue of benevolence or the act of giving, whereas other terms may be used for different nuances. For example, Benevolencia emphasizes goodwill and kindness and Filantropía is used in a broader or more formal sense.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Latin America, the word beneficencia is used as a formal alternative when referring to charitable acts or charitable organizations.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
caridad is a feminine noun and is used with the feminine article la (e.g., la caridad).
How do you pronounce it?
/kaɾiˈdad/
Did you know?
- While caridad is a virtue, using it to describe a gift can sometimes sound condescending in modern Spain, implying the receiver is inferior.
- In Spanish, the expression por caridad is often used as a plea for mercy or a desperate request, similar to the English 'for mercy's sake'.
- The Spanish word caridad shares the same Latin root, carus, as the English word 'dear'.
Examples in context
- ¿Tú das a caridad?Do you give to charity?This sentence shows how to ask if someone gives to charity using caridad.Tatoeba #1239390 by marcelostockle, translation #953188 by CK
- No quiero tu caridad.I don't want your charity.This sentence uses caridad to express a refusal of someone's charity.Tatoeba #2087331 by hayastan, translation #2012440 by CK
- No necesito tu caridad.I don't need your charity.This sentence uses caridad to state that someone's charity is not needed.Tatoeba #2375714 by hayastan, translation #2276149 by CK
- Estoy involucrado/a en labores de caridad local.I'm involved in local charity work.
- Necesitamos tu ayuda para apoyar a las personas necesitadas.We need your help to support those in need.
- Esta organización se dedica a la filantropía y al bienestar comunitario.This organization is dedicated to philanthropy and community welfare.
- 19 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Daniel and Elena are talking about volunteering at a food bank.
- DanielEste centro funciona gracias a la caridad.This center operates thanks to charity.
- ElenaEs increíble cuánta gente ayuda.It is incredible how many people help.
- DanielLa caridad puede cambiar muchas vidas.Charity can change many lives.
- ElenaTienes razón, Daniel.You are right, Daniel.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “charity” translations and entries caridad, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries caridad, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
