clímax
/ˈklimaɡs/masculine
The English phrase "climax" can be translated into Spanish as clímax. If unsure, use clímax. Wiktionary also lists colofón.
Meaning: point of greatest intensity or force (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| clímax | /ˈklimaɡs/ | masculine |
| colofón | /koloˈfon/ | masculine |
The term is used to describe the point of greatest intensity or force in a situation.
Which one should you use?
While clímax refers to the peak of intensity, colofón is used to describe a final, often impressive, concluding event or detail that rounds something off.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Argentina, the term momento cumbre can be used to describe the highest point of a situation.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈklimaɡs/
Did you know?
- The Spanish clímax shares the same Greek root as the English word 'climate', as both come from the word for a 'ladder' or 'slope'.
- In many Spanish-speaking countries, clímax is used heavily in scientific and biological contexts, such as describing the peak of a cycle, whereas in English it is often associated with drama or sexuality.
- Although clímax is common, Spanish writers often prefer apogeo to describe the absolute zenith of a civilization or artistic period.
Examples in context
- La película alcanzó su clímax durante la persecución en el bosque.The movie reached its climax during the chase in the forest.
- El concierto tuvo su punto culminante cuando la banda tocó su canción más famosa.The concert had its climax when the band played their most famous song.
- La fiesta alcanzó su cumbre cuando comenzaron a bailar todos juntos.The party reached its climax when everyone started dancing together.
- La película llega a su punto de ebullición en la escena final de la batalla.The movie reaches its boiling point in the final battle scene.
- La obra de teatro alcanza su momento cumbre cuando el protagonista revela su verdadera identidad.The play reaches its climax when the main character reveals his true identity.
- El clímax de la película fue increíble.The climax of the movie was incredible.
- Esperamos el clímax de la tormenta.We are waiting for the climax of the storm.
- La historia llega a su clímax rápidamente.The story reaches its climax quickly.
Example conversation
Mateo and Sofía are discussing a novel they just finished reading.
- Mateo¿Qué te pareció el clímax de la novela?What did you think of the climax of the novel?
- SofíaFue muy emocionante, Mateo.It was very exciting, Mateo.
- MateoSí, el clímax fue muy intenso.Yes, the climax was very intense.
- SofíaNo esperaba un final así.I wasn't expecting an ending like that.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “climax” translations and entries clímax, colofón, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries clímax, colofón, CC BY-SA 4.0.
