Knowing how to express yourself in various languages is a valuable skill. If you’re looking to enhance your Spanish vocabulary, learning how to say “juvenile” is a great place to start. In this guide, we’ll explore different ways to say “juvenile” in Spanish, covering both formal and informal variations. While regional variations may exist, we’ll focus on widely accepted and commonly used terms. So, vamos a empezar (let’s get started)!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Juvenile” in Spanish
When addressing juvenile-related topics formally, it’s important to use appropriate language. Here are some formal equivalents of “juvenile” in Spanish:
- Menor – This word is frequently used to describe someone under the age of majority or legal adulthood. For example, “juvenile justice” can be translated as “justicia para menores.”
- Infante – While mainly used to refer to infants or very young children, “infante” can also be employed in certain formal contexts to indicate “juvenile.” However, it is more commonly used in a different sense unrelated to adolescence.
- Joven – Although “joven” generally translates to “young” or “youth,” it is an acceptable and broadly used formal term for a juvenile. For instance, you might say “una persona joven” to refer to a young person in a legal or formal setting.
Informal Ways to Say “Juvenile” in Spanish
Conversational Spanish often differs from formal language, and when it comes to speaking informally about juveniles, alternative terms may be preferred. Here are some casual expressions you can use:
- Pibe/a – This is a commonly used expression in many Spanish-speaking regions to refer to a young individual. For instance, “los pibes del barrio” means “the kids from the neighborhood.” It’s important to note that pibe/a could also refer to someone slightly older, depending on the context.
- Chico/a – Used in many Spanish-speaking countries, “chico/a” is an everyday term for “boy” or “girl.” In a relaxed conversation, you can refer to a “juvenile” as “un chico” or “una chica.”
- Muchacho/a – Similar to “chico/a,” this term is more commonly used in Mexico and Central America. It can be employed informally to refer to boys or girls.
Regional Variations
While the terms mentioned above are widely accepted, it’s worth noting that regional variations may exist within the Spanish-speaking world. In some areas, local slang or colloquial expressions might be used to refer to juveniles. Here are a couple of examples:
Morrillo/a – Commonly used in Caribbean countries such as Puerto Rico, this term refers to a young boy or girl. It carries a warm and endearing undertone.
Guachimán/a or Guachinear – Used in some parts of the Caribbean and Central America, these terms are derived from English (watchman) and can refer to young individuals hanging out or misbehaving on the streets.
Remember, these regional variations should be used with caution, and it’s generally best to rely on the more widely understood terms mentioned previously.
Conclusion
Now that you have familiarized yourself with numerous ways to say “juvenile” in Spanish, you can confidently express yourself in both formal and informal contexts. Whether you’re discussing juvenile justice matters or simply engaging in a casual conversation, these terms will undoubtedly prove useful. Remember to choose an appropriate term based on the level of formality and regional variations, if necessary. Keep practicing your Spanish skills, and enjoy exploring the richness of this beautiful language!
