buena voluntad
/ˌbwena bolunˈtad/
The English phrase "good will" is translated into Spanish as buena voluntad.
buena voluntad refers to a friendly and helpful attitude toward others. It is used in the expression actuar de buena voluntad, which means to act out of good will or with good intentions.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the adjective buena (good) and the noun voluntad (will/volition).
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, you may also hear the phrase buena predisposición used to express the idea of good will.
How does it change in a sentence?
To express the opposite concept of "ill will" or "bad will," you should use mala voluntad.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˌbwena bolunˈtad/
Did you know?
- In Spanish, the concept of 'good will' is tied strictly to the internal 'will' or 'disposition' of a person, whereas in English, 'goodwill' (one word) often refers specifically to a business's reputation.
- In Spanish, the word voluntad is almost never used to refer to a 'Last Will and Testament'.
- The phrase mala voluntad is used not only for 'ill will' but also to describe a specific type of stubborn refusal to be helpful.
Examples in context
- No hay escasez de buena voluntad, solo de valor.There is no dearth of good will, only of courage.This sentence shows how to use buena voluntad when discussing the availability of good will versus courage.Tatoeba #10243774 by Seael, translation #10243770 by shekitten
- Su trabajo no fue más que un gesto de buena voluntad.His work was merely a gesture of good will.This sentence demonstrates using buena voluntad to describe a gesture made with good intentions.Tatoeba #2253958 by carlosalberto, translation #2253956 by _undertoad
- Le agradezco su buena voluntad para colaborar en este proyecto.I appreciate your good will to collaborate on this project.
- Ella siempre actúa con mucha buena voluntad.She always acts with a lot of good will.
Example conversation
Two colleagues discuss a conflict in the office.
- SofíaDaniel, creo que debemos hablar con el equipo.Daniel, I think we should talk to the team.
- DanielTienes razón, pero ellos están muy molestos.You are right, but they are very upset.
- SofíaSi mostramos buena voluntad, ellos aceptarán negociar.If we show good will, they will agree to negotiate.
- DanielEstá bien, intentémoslo mañana.Alright, let's try it tomorrow.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry buena voluntad, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
