If you’re looking to expand your Spanish vocabulary and want to know how to say “criminal record” in Spanish, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we will explore different formal and informal ways to express this term, providing you with useful tips, examples, and insight into any regional variations that may exist. So, let’s get started and enhance your language skills!
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Formal Ways to Say “Criminal Record” in Spanish
In formal contexts, it is important to use the appropriate terminology when referring to a “criminal record.” Here are a few phrases commonly used in Spanish:
- Antecedentes penales: This is the most common formal way to refer to a criminal record in Spanish. It directly translates to “criminal background” or “criminal history.” For example, you could say: “El solicitante tiene antecedentes penales” (The applicant has a criminal record).
- Registro de delincuentes: This phrase translates to “criminal registry” or “criminal offenders register.” It refers specifically to a document or database that records criminal convictions. You could use it in a sentence like this: “Consultaremos el registro de delincuentes antes de tomar una decisión” (We will check the criminal registry before making a decision).
- Hoja de antecedentes criminales: This phrase translates literally to “criminal record sheet.” It implies a formal document that displays someone’s criminal history. An example sentence could be: “Al solicitar empleo, es posible que te pidan una hoja de antecedentes criminales” (When applying for a job, you may be asked for a criminal record sheet).
Informal Ways to Say “Criminal Record” in Spanish
In more casual settings or when speaking with friends, you might prefer to use a more informal way of expressing “criminal record.” Here are some commonly used phrases in informal Spanish:
- Ficha policial: This phrase translates to “police record” or “police file” and refers to the record of an individual kept by the police. It is commonly used in informal conversations. For example: “No puedo creer que tenga una ficha policial” (I can’t believe he has a criminal record).
- Pasado delictivo: This phrase literally translates to “criminal past.” Although it sounds less formal than the previous options, it is still used in spoken language to refer to someone’s criminal history. An example sentence could be: “Él tiene un pasado delictivo” (He has a criminal past).
- Haber estado en cana: This phrase is slang for having been in jail or prison. It is a more colloquial way to refer to a criminal record. For instance: “No contrates a esa persona, ha estado en cana” (Don’t hire that person, they have a criminal record).
Regional Variations
While the formal and informal phrases listed above are widely understood throughout the Spanish-speaking world, it’s important to note that there can be some regional variations. Let’s take a look at a couple of examples:
Note: In some Latin American countries, the term “antecedentes penales” may also be known as “prontuario penal.”
It’s always beneficial to be aware of these minor differences when communicating with native speakers from different regions.
Key Tips and Examples
Now that we have covered various ways to say “criminal record” in Spanish, here are some additional tips and examples to help you incorporate this vocabulary into your conversations effectively:
- Contextual understanding: When using these phrases, it’s essential to consider the context and adjust the level of formality accordingly.
- Usage in sentences: To provide you further clarity, let’s see these phrases in action within example sentences:
- “Puedo acceder a tus antecedentes penales para el trámite de inmigración?” (Can I access your criminal record for the immigration process?)
- “No confíes en él, tiene un pasado delictivo poco confiable” (Don’t trust him, he has an unreliable criminal past).
- “Preferiría contratar a alguien sin ficha policial” (I would prefer to hire someone without a criminal record).
- Respectful communication: Always ensure you use these terms with respect and sensitivity, as discussing criminal records can be delicate.
- Practice and immersion: To become more comfortable using these phrases, try practicing them in different contexts and engage in conversations with native Spanish speakers.
By familiarizing yourself with these phrases and practicing their usage, you’ll be well-equipped to discuss “criminal records” in Spanish confidently and effectively.
Remember to aim for natural incorporation of these phrases in your conversations. Vocabulary acquisition takes time, but with practice, you’ll become increasingly fluent and comfortable expressing yourself in Spanish!
