sorteo
/soɾˈteo/
The Spanish word for giveaway is sorteo.
Sorteo is the standard term used for promotional giveaways or raffles, especially on social media. If you are specifically referring to Christmas giveaways, you may use the phrase regalos navideños.
Meaning: event where something is given away for free (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of sorteo is sorteos.
How do you pronounce it?
/soɾˈteo/
Did you know?
- The noun sorteo comes from the verb sortear, which in a completely different context means to dodge, evade, or bypass an obstacle or a problem.
- In some Spanish-speaking countries, a sorteo can refer to a formal government lottery or a mandatory military draft, not just a promotional gift.
- While sorteo is perfect for a raffle, if you are talking about a giveaway in the sense of a 'freebie' or a complimentary item at a hotel, Spanish speakers often use the word cortesía.
Examples in context
- Participa en el sorteo para ganar un iPhone.Participate in the giveaway to win an iPhone.
- El sorteo es mañana por la tarde.The giveaway is tomorrow afternoon.
- Participo en el sorteo de Instagram.I am participating in the Instagram giveaway.
- Ganamos el sorteo de la tienda.We won the store giveaway.
Example conversation
Daniel and María are talking about a social media contest.
- Daniel¿Viste el sorteo de Instagram?Did you see the Instagram giveaway?
- MaríaSí, quiero ganar esa bicicleta.Yes, I want to win that bike.
- DanielTienes que seguir la cuenta para el sorteo.You have to follow the account for the giveaway.
- MaríaYa lo hice, Daniel.I already did it, Daniel.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry sorteo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries sorteo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
