cómplice
/ˈkompliθe/
The English phrase 'partner in crime' can be translated into Spanish as cómplice.
While the literal meaning of cómplice refers to a criminal accomplice, it is frequently used figuratively to describe a close friend or partner in mischief, much like the English idiom 'partner in crime'.
Meaning: close associate (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
The word cómplice is gender-neutral, meaning it remains the same whether you are referring to a male or a female partner. To talk about more than one person, use the plural form cómplices.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈkompliθe/
Did you know?
- The word cómplice shares the same Latin root as the English 'complex', referring to things that are woven or intertwined together.
- In romantic relationships, describing a partner as a cómplice often implies the couple shares a private language or secret world that excludes everyone else.
- While cómplice can sound legal, the word compinche is used in casual conversation to describe a sidekick or a buddy in mischief without any risk of sounding like a criminal.
Examples in context
- Ana es mi cómplice en todos los proyectos.Ana is my partner in crime in all projects.
- ¡Juan es mi compañero de fechorías!Juan is my partner in crime!
- Laura es mi aliada en todas las travesuras.Laura is my partner in crime for all the mischief.
- ¡Oye compadre, somos cómplices de toda la vida!Hey buddy, we have been partners in crime for a lifetime!
- Ella siempre ha sido mi cómplice.She has always been my partner in crime.
- Buscamos un cómplice para la travesura.We are looking for a partner in crime for the prank.
- No tengo ningún cómplice en este plan.I don't have any partner in crime for this plan.
Example conversation
Javier and Elena are planning a surprise party.
- JavierNecesito un cómplice para comprar el pastel.I need a partner in crime to buy the cake.
- ElenaYo puedo ser tu cómplice, Javier.I can be your partner in crime, Javier.
- Javier¡Perfecto! No le digas nada a nadie.Perfect! Don't tell anyone anything.
- ElenaNo te preocupes, el secreto está a salvo.Don't worry, the secret is safe.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry cómplice, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries cómplice, CC BY-SA 4.0.
