abuela política
/aˌbwela poˈlitika/
The Spanish phrase for grandmother-in-law is abuela política.
abuela política is the specific term used to refer to the grandmother of one's spouse.
Meaning: grandmother of one's spouse (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The term abuela política literally translates to 'political grandmother'. In this context, política is used in the sense of 'legal' or 'by law' rather than relating to government politics.
Which one should you use?
While abuela política is the precise term for a grandmother-in-law, in casual conversation, many Spanish speakers simply use abuela to refer to their spouse's grandmother.
How does it change in a sentence?
To make the phrase plural, change both the noun and the adjective to match: abuelas políticas.
How do you pronounce it?
/aˌbwela poˈlitika/
Did you know?
- The word abuela originates from the Late Latin aviola, which was a diminutive form of the Latin word avia.
- If you are describing a grandmother-in-law in a very formal legal setting, you might see the term abuela por afinidad, which specifically denotes the relationship created through marriage affinity.
- When Spanish speakers use abuela política instead of just abuela, they may be intentionally signaling that the person is not a blood relative.
Examples in context
- Le presento a mi abuela política.I present to you my grandmother-in-law.
Example conversation
María and Mateo are talking about their family holiday plans.
- MaríaVoy a visitar a mi abuela política.I am going to visit my grandmother-in-law.
- Mateo¿Ella vive lejos de aquí, María?Does she live far from here, María?
- MaríaSí, vive en un pueblo pequeño.Yes, she lives in a small town.
- MateoEspero que tengas un buen viaje.I hope you have a good trip.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “grandmother-in-law” translations and entries abuela política, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries abuela, CC BY-SA 4.0.
