prenda
/ˈpɾenda/feminine
The English word 'collateral' can be translated into Spanish as prenda or aval.
Meaning: security or guarantee (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| prenda | /ˈpɾenda/ | feminine |
| aval | /aˈbal/ | masculine |
In a financial context, 'collateral' refers to the security or guarantee provided for a loan. You can use the phrase de prenda to describe something that is collateralized or pledged.
Which one should you use?
The choice between the two terms depends on the type of security being discussed. Use prenda when referring to a physical object or asset pledged as security for a loan. Use aval when referring to a guarantee or a person/entity acting as a guarantor rather than a physical object.
How does it change in a sentence?
prenda is a feminine noun, and its plural form is prendas. aval is a masculine noun, and its plural form is avales.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈpɾenda/
Did you know?
- The word prenda shares the same Latin root as the English word 'pledge', but in modern Spanish, it is more commonly used to describe a 'piece' of clothing or jewelry.
- In romantic or archaic Spanish poetry, prenda can be used as a term of endearment to describe a 'beloved' or 'treasure'.
- The word prenda originates from the Latin pignus, which referred to both a pledge of property and a 'hostage' given as a guarantee.
Examples in context
- Deberás proporcionar una garantía para obtener un préstamoYou will need to provide collateral to obtain a loan
- Necesito un aval para firmar este contratoI need a guarantor to sign this contract
- Quiero empeñar esta joya como prendaI want to pawn this piece of jewelry as collateral
- Señor, ¿cuenta con algún tipo de garantía para obtener el préstamo?Sir, do you have any kind of collateral to obtain the loan?
- Sí, puedo ofrecer mi automóvil como garantía.Yes, I can offer my car as collateral.
- Dejé mi reloj como prenda para el préstamo.I left my watch as collateral for the loan.
- Necesitamos una prenda para asegurar el contrato.We need a security to secure the contract.
- La joya es la prenda del préstamo.The jewel is the collateral for the loan.
Example conversation
María is talking to Javier about a business loan.
- MaríaJavier, ¿tienes algo que sirva como prenda?Javier, do you have something that works as collateral?
- JavierPuedo usar mis joyas como prenda.I can use my jewelry as collateral.
- MaríaEso sería suficiente para el banco.That would be enough for the bank.
- JavierPerfecto, lo organizaré mañana mismo.Perfect, I will organize it tomorrow.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “collateral” translations and entries prenda, aval, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries aval, prenda, CC BY-SA 4.0.
