espíritu
/esˈpiɾitu/masculine
The English word 'spirit' can be translated into Spanish as espíritu. Wiktionary also lists alma.
Meaning: soul (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| espíritu | /esˈpiɾitu/ | masculine |
| alma | /ˈalma/ | masculine |
For example, you can use the related adjective espiritual to describe things that are spiritual.
Which one should you use?
While espíritu is a general term for spirit, alma is used more specifically when referring to the soul in deep philosophical or religious contexts.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico, the specific religious phrase espíritu santo is used to refer to the Holy Spirit. In Argentina and Uruguay, onda is the common informal way to say 'spirit' or 'vibe'.
How does it change in a sentence?
Although alma is a feminine noun, it uses the masculine article el in the singular (el alma) to avoid a hiatus between the stressed 'a' and the article. However, the feminine gender returns in the plural form las almas.
How do you pronounce it?
/esˈpiɾitu/
Did you know?
- The word espíritu comes from the Latin verb spirare, which means 'to breathe', linking the concept of spirit to the breath of life.
- In Spanish, the word ánima is frequently used specifically to refer to the souls of people in Purgatory, rather than a general 'spirit'.
- While espíritu describes the essence of a person, the word ánimo is used to describe a person's current mood or the 'spirit' they have to tackle a task.
Examples in context
- Ese es el espíritu.That's the spirit.This sentence shows how to use espíritu to express 'that's the spirit'.Tatoeba #1717714 by marcelostockle, translation #45027 by CM
- Tom es un espíritu malvado.Tom is an evil spirit.This sentence uses espíritu to describe an evil spirit.Tatoeba #10031521 by manufrutos, translation #10028616 by shekitten
- Debemos invocar a un espíritu.We have to summon a spirit.This sentence demonstrates the use of espíritu when summoning a spirit.Tatoeba #1002822 by hayastan, translation #12231184 by Miktsoanit
- El espíritu humano es infinitamente poderoso.The human spirit is infinitely powerful.
- La paz interior se encuentra en el alma.Inner peace is found in the spirit.
- ¡Ánimo! No te rindas nunca.Cheer up! Never give up.
- Hay muy buena onda en esta fiesta.There's a great vibe at this party.
- 44 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Daniel and Lucía are discussing a book about philosophy.
- DanielCreo que el espíritu es inmortal.I believe the spirit is immortal.
- Lucía¿Tú crees que el espíritu sobrevive a la muerte?Do you think the spirit survives death?
- DanielSí, el espíritu viaja a otro lugar.Yes, the spirit travels to another place.
- LucíaEs una idea muy interesante, Daniel.It is a very interesting idea, Daniel.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “spirit” translations and entries espíritu, alma, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
