Gaining a new family through marriage is a significant event in life, and being able to communicate effectively with your spouse’s relatives is essential. In Spanish, the term “in-laws” can be translated in several ways depending on the context, formality, and regional variations. Whether you want to address your in-laws formally or informally, this guide will provide you with the knowledge and examples you need to communicate with grace and respect.
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Formal Ways to Say “In-Laws” in Spanish
When speaking formally, it is essential to use respectful language to address your in-laws. Here are some common formal ways to express the term “in-laws” in Spanish:
Suegros
The most common and widely used term for in-laws is “suegros.” This word is a general term that encompasses both your spouse’s parents. For example:
Mi esposa y yo vamos a visitar a mis suegros este fin de semana.
(My wife and I are going to visit my in-laws this weekend.)
Suegro y Suegra
If you want to be more specific and address your father-in-law and mother-in-law individually, you can use “suegro” for father-in-law and “suegra” for mother-in-law. Here is an example:
Voy a llamar a mi suegra para felicitarla por su cumpleaños.
(I’m going to call my mother-in-law to wish her a happy birthday.)
Informal Ways to Say “In-Laws” in Spanish
When addressing your in-laws informally, you can use the following terms, keeping in mind the specific regional variations and the comfort level within your relationship:
Los Viejos
This term is commonly used in informal settings in some Latin American countries to refer to in-laws. It literally translates to “the old ones.” However, it’s crucial to consider the regional variations and the dynamics of your relationship with your in-laws to ensure it is appropriate. Here’s an example:
Vamos a pasar el fin de semana en casa de los viejos.
(We’re going to spend the weekend at the in-laws’ place.)
Los Padres de mi Pareja
In a more formal informal setting, you can also use the phrase “los padres de mi pareja” meaning “the parents of my partner.” Although it is a lengthier expression, it can be a suitable alternative. For instance:
Los padres de mi pareja nos invitaron a cenar mañana.
(The parents of my partner invited us for dinner tomorrow.)
Regional Variations
Spanish is spoken across various countries, and each region may have its own colloquial or regional expressions for in-laws. It is essential to be aware of these differences to ensure effective communication. Here are a couple of examples:
Los Consuegros
In some Latin American countries like Mexico, “los consuegros” is used to describe the relationship between a person’s parents and their spouse’s parents. However, it is not widely used in all regions. Here is an example:
Los consuegros de mi hijo son muy amables.
(My son’s in-laws are very kind.)
Los Parientes Políticos
In Spain, the term “parientes políticos” is used to refer to in-laws. This phrase translates to “political relatives” and is a formal way of addressing your spouse’s family. An example in this context would be:
Vamos a pasar las vacaciones con los parientes políticos en la costa.
(We’re going to spend the holidays with the in-laws on the coast.)
Tips for Addressing In-Laws in Spanish
When communicating with your in-laws in Spanish, consider these tips to ensure respectful and warm interactions:
- Familiarize Yourself with Cultural Differences: Each family has its own customs and cultural practices. Take the time to learn about your in-laws’ traditions and show interest in understanding and respecting them.
- Use Titles and Honorifics: Addressing your in-laws with proper titles, such as “señor” (sir) or “señora” (ma’am), shows respect. In some cases, you may also use “don” for a gentleman or “doña” for a lady, followed by their first name.
- Show Appreciation and Affection: Express gratitude towards your in-laws for their kindness and hospitality. Demonstrating affection through gestures, such as hugs or kisses on the cheek, can strengthen your relationship with them.
- Ask for Guidance: If you have doubts about proper etiquette or addressing your in-laws, don’t hesitate to ask them for guidance. Your efforts to learn and improve your Spanish will likely be appreciated.
Remember, building a strong and respectful relationship with your in-laws is an ongoing process. Embracing their language and customs is one way to foster a positive connection with your extended family.
