penalidad
/penaliˈdad/
The Spanish word for penalty (in the sense of a punishment for violating rules of procedure) is penalidad.
penalidad is used specifically to describe a punishment resulting from a violation of procedural rules. In legal or regulatory contexts, you might see the phrase imponer una multa to mean to impose a fine or recibir una sanción to mean to receive a sanction.
Meaning: punishment for violating rules of procedure (noun)
Which one should you use?
While penalidad refers to a procedural penalty, the word pena is the standard term used when discussing a criminal sentence or a feeling of sorrow. Additionally, the term penalización can be used as a more formal way to express the concept of a penalty.
How do you pronounce it?
/penaliˈdad/
Did you know?
- In some Latin American countries, the phrase dar pena is used to describe something that is cringeworthy or embarrassing. This shifts the meaning of pena from 'penalty' or 'sorrow' to social awkwardness.
- In a sports context, such as football, you would almost never use penalidad to describe a penalty kick. Instead, you would use the term penalti or simply penal.
- In Spanish, the word pena is used for both a prison sentence and the feeling of grief. This means a judge can hand down a pena while the defendant feels pena.
Examples in context
- El incumplimiento de las reglas conlleva una penalización.Non-compliance with the rules incurs a penalty.
- El castigo por ese delito es una multa considerable.The penalty for that offense is a substantial fine.
- Si conduces a exceso de velocidad, te pueden poner una multa.If you drive over the speed limit, you can get a ticket.
Example conversation
Lucía and Alejandro are discussing a late contract submission.
- LucíaAlejandro, ¿entregaste el documento a tiempo?Alejandro, did you hand in the document on time?
- AlejandroNo, lo envié ayer por la tarde.No, I sent it yesterday afternoon.
- LucíaAhora tendremos que pagar una penalidad.Now we will have to pay a penalty.
- AlejandroLo siento mucho, Lucía.I am very sorry, Lucía.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry penalidad, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
