If you’re trying to learn Spanish to communicate with your Latin American in-laws, you’ll need to know the words for different family members in Spanish. Spanish speakers around the world share a common set of basic vocabulary words for immediate family members such as padres, madres, hijos, hijas, and hermanos. However, the words they use for in-laws vary from country to country and region to region.
In some Spanish-speaking countries, you can use the plural form of hermano or hermana to refer to your brother-in-law or sister-in-law. In other countries, you would use cuñado for brother-in-law and cuñada for sister-in-law. If you want to be more specific, you could add the word político or política to clarify that you’re talking about your spouse’s brother or sister.
To learn more about the words for family members in Spanish, continue reading to see several examples of in-laws in Spanish and English.
parents in law in spanish
Spanish words for in-laws vary by region.
- suegros
- padres políticos
- papás políticos
- suegro
- suegra
- yerno
- nuera
- cuñado
- cuñada
- hermano político
Use "político" or "política" to clarify spouse's sibling.
suegros
The most common word for "in-laws" in Spanish is "suegros." This word is used in Spain and most Latin American countries. It is the plural form of "suegro" and "suegra," which mean "father-in-law" and "mother-in-law," respectively.
You can use "suegros" to refer to your spouse's parents, or to your own parents-in-law. For example, you could say "Mis suegros viven en México" ("My in-laws live in Mexico") or "Los suegros de mi esposo son muy amables" ("My husband's parents-in-law are very kind").
In some Spanish-speaking countries, you may also hear the word "padres políticos" used to refer to in-laws. This term is more formal than "suegros," and it is often used in legal or official documents.
If you want to be more specific, you can use the terms "suegro" and "suegra" to refer to your father-in-law and mother-in-law, respectively. For example, you could say "Mi suegro es un hombre muy sabio" ("My father-in-law is a very wise man") or "Mi suegra es una excelente cocinera" ("My mother-in-law is an excellent cook").
No matter which term you use, it is important to be respectful of your in-laws. They are your spouse's family, and they deserve your love and respect.
padres políticos
The term "padres políticos" is another common way to say "in-laws" in Spanish. This term is more formal than "suegros," and it is often used in legal or official documents.
- More formal than "suegros"
The term "padres políticos" is more formal than "suegros." It is often used in legal or official documents, or when speaking to someone in a position of authority.
- Literally means "political parents"
The term "padres políticos" literally means "political parents." This is because, in Spanish, the word "político" can also mean "related to marriage." For example, you can say "mi primo político" to refer to your cousin-in-law.
- Can be used for both spouse's parents and your own
The term "padres políticos" can be used to refer to both your spouse's parents and your own. For example, you could say "Mis padres políticos viven en España" ("My in-laws live in Spain") or "Los padres políticos de mi esposo son muy amables" ("My husband's in-laws are very kind").
- Can be used in a variety of contexts
The term "padres políticos" can be used in a variety of contexts, both formal and informal. For example, you could use it when introducing your in-laws to someone, or when talking about them with your friends or family.
No matter which term you use, it is important to be respectful of your in-laws. They are your spouse's family, and they deserve your love and respect.
papás políticos
The term "papás políticos" is a more informal way to say "in-laws" in Spanish. It is often used in everyday conversation, especially among friends and family.
- Informal term for "in-laws"
The term "papás políticos" is an informal term for "in-laws." It is often used in everyday conversation, especially among friends and family. It is not as formal as "suegros" or "padres políticos," and it is not typically used in legal or official documents.
- Literally means "political parents"
The term "papás políticos" literally means "political parents." This is because, in Spanish, the word "político" can also mean "related to marriage." For example, you can say "mi primo político" to refer to your cousin-in-law.
- Can be used for both spouse's parents and your own
The term "papás políticos" can be used to refer to both your spouse's parents and your own. For example, you could say "Mis papás políticos viven en México" ("My in-laws live in Mexico") or "Los papás políticos de mi esposo son muy amables" ("My husband's in-laws are very kind").
- Can be used in a variety of contexts
The term "papás políticos" can be used in a variety of contexts, both formal and informal. For example, you could use it when introducing your in-laws to someone, or when talking about them with your friends or family.
No matter which term you use, it is important to be respectful of your in-laws. They are your spouse's family, and they deserve your love and respect.
suegro
The term "suegro" is used to refer to your father-in-law. It is the singular form of "suegros," which means "in-laws."
- Means "father-in-law"
The term "suegro" literally means "father-in-law." It is used to refer to your spouse's father.
- Can be used in both formal and informal contexts
The term "suegro" can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is appropriate to use it when speaking to your father-in-law, or when talking about him with your friends or family.
- Can be used with or without the definite article
The term "suegro" can be used with or without the definite article "el." For example, you could say "Mi suegro es un hombre muy amable" or "El suegro de mi esposa es muy amable." Both of these sentences mean "My father-in-law is a very kind man."
- Can be used to show respect
Using the term "suegro" is a way to show respect to your father-in-law. It shows that you recognize and value his role in your family.
No matter how you choose to address your father-in-law, it is important to be respectful and kind. He is your spouse's father, and he deserves your love and respect.
suegra
The term "suegra" is used to refer to your mother-in-law. It is the singular form of "suegros," which means "in-laws."
The term "suegra" can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is appropriate to use it when speaking to your mother-in-law, or when talking about her with your friends or family. It can be used with or without the definite article "la." For example, you could say "Mi suegra es una mujer muy amable" or "La suegra de mi esposo es muy amable." Both of these sentences mean "My mother-in-law is a very kind woman."
Using the term "suegra" is a way to show respect to your mother-in-law. It shows that you recognize and value her role in your family. It is important to be respectful and kind to your mother-in-law, even if you do not always agree with her. She is your spouse's mother, and she deserves your love and respect.
In some cultures, there may be some jokes or stereotypes about mothers-in-law. However, it is important to remember that these are just stereotypes. Every mother-in-law is different, and it is important to treat her with the same respect and kindness that you would show to your own mother.
No matter how you choose to address your mother-in-law, it is important to be respectful and kind. She is your spouse's mother, and she deserves your love and respect.
yerno
The term "yerno" is used to refer to your son-in-law. It is the masculine form of "yerna," which means "daughter-in-law."
The term "yerno" can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is appropriate to use it when speaking to your son-in-law, or when talking about him with your friends or family. It can be used with or without the definite article "el." For example, you could say "Mi yerno es un hombre muy trabajador" or "El yerno de mi hija es muy trabajador." Both of these sentences mean "My son-in-law is a very hard-working man."
Using the term "yerno" is a way to show respect to your son-in-law. It shows that you recognize and value his role in your family. It is important to be respectful and kind to your son-in-law, even if you do not always agree with him. He is your daughter's husband, and he deserves your love and respect.
In some cultures, there may be some jokes or stereotypes about sons-in-law. However, it is important to remember that these are just stereotypes. Every son-in-law is different, and it is important to treat him with the same respect and kindness that you would show to your own son.
No matter how you choose to address your son-in-law, it is important to be respectful and kind. He is your daughter's husband, and he deserves your love and respect.
nuera
The term "nuera" is used to refer to your daughter-in-law. It is the feminine form of "yerno," which means "son-in-law."
The term "nuera" can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is appropriate to use it when speaking to your daughter-in-law, or when talking about her with your friends or family. It can be used with or without the definite article "la." For example, you could say "Mi nuera es una mujer muy inteligente" or "La nuera de mi hijo es muy inteligente." Both of these sentences mean "My daughter-in-law is a very intelligent woman."
Using the term "nuera" is a way to show respect to your daughter-in-law. It shows that you recognize and value her role in your family. It is important to be respectful and kind to your daughter-in-law, even if you do not always agree with her. She is your son's wife, and she deserves your love and respect.
In some cultures, there may be some jokes or stereotypes about daughters-in-law. However, it is important to remember that these are just stereotypes. Every daughter-in-law is different, and it is important to treat her with the same respect and kindness that you would show to your own daughter.
No matter how you choose to address your daughter-in-law, it is important to be respectful and kind. She is your son's wife, and she deserves your love and respect.
cuñado
The term "cuñado" is used to refer to your brother-in-law. It is the masculine form of "cuñada," which means "sister-in-law."
The term "cuñado" can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is appropriate to use it when speaking to your brother-in-law, or when talking about him with your friends or family. It can be used with or without the definite article "el." For example, you could say "Mi cuñado es un hombre muy amable" or "El cuñado de mi hermana es muy amable." Both of these sentences mean "My brother-in-law is a very kind man."
Using the term "cuñado" is a way to show respect to your brother-in-law. It shows that you recognize and value his role in your family. It is important to be respectful and kind to your brother-in-law, even if you do not always agree with him. He is your spouse's brother, and he deserves your love and respect.
In some cultures, there may be some jokes or stereotypes about brothers-in-law. However, it is important to remember that these are just stereotypes. Every brother-in-law is different, and it is important to treat him with the same respect and kindness that you would show to your own brother.
No matter how you choose to address your brother-in-law, it is important to be respectful and kind. He is your spouse's brother, and he deserves your love and respect.
cuñada
The term "cuñada" is used to refer to your sister-in-law. It is the feminine form of "cuñado," which means "brother-in-law."
- Means "sister-in-law"
The term "cuñada" literally means "sister-in-law." It is used to refer to your spouse's sister.
- Can be used in both formal and informal contexts
The term "cuñada" can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is appropriate to use it when speaking to your sister-in-law, or when talking about her with your friends or family.
- Can be used with or without the definite article
The term "cuñada" can be used with or without the definite article "la." For example, you could say "Mi cuñada es una mujer muy inteligente" or "La cuñada de mi hermano es muy inteligente." Both of these sentences mean "My sister-in-law is a very intelligent woman."
- Can be used to show respect
Using the term "cuñada" is a way to show respect to your sister-in-law. It shows that you recognize and value her role in your family.
No matter how you choose to address your sister-in-law, it is important to be respectful and kind. She is your spouse's sister, and she deserves your love and respect.
hermano político
The term "hermano político" is used to refer to your brother-in-law or sister-in-law. It is a more formal term than "cuñado" or "cuñada," and it is often used in legal or official documents.
The term "hermano político" can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is appropriate to use it when speaking to your brother-in-law or sister-in-law, or when talking about them with your friends or family. It can be used with or without the definite article "el" or "la." For example, you could say "Mi hermano político es un hombre muy amable" or "La hermana política de mi esposo es muy inteligente." Both of these sentences mean "My brother-in-law is a very kind man" and "My husband's sister-in-law is very intelligent."
Using the term "hermano político" is a way to show respect to your brother-in-law or sister-in-law. It shows that you recognize and value their role in your family. It is important to be respectful and kind to your brother-in-law or sister-in-law, even if you do not always agree with them. They are your spouse's sibling, and they deserve your love and respect.
In some cultures, there may be some jokes or stereotypes about brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law. However, it is important to remember that these are just stereotypes. Every brother-in-law and sister-in-law is different, and it is important to treat them with the same respect and kindness that you would show to your own siblings.
No matter how you choose to address your brother-in-law or sister-in-law, it is important to be respectful and kind. They are your spouse's sibling, and they deserve your love and respect.
FAQ
Do you have questions about your spouse's parents? Here are some frequently asked questions and answers to help you navigate your relationship with your in-laws:
Question 1: How can I show respect to my in-laws?
Answer 1: Showing respect to your in-laws is essential for maintaining a healthy relationship with them. Some ways to show respect include:
- Use polite language and address them with their proper titles (e.g., Mr. and Mrs.).
- Listen to them attentively and value their opinions.
- Be respectful of their cultural and religious beliefs, even if they are different from your own.
- Avoid making critical or negative comments about them or their family.
Question 2: How can I build a good relationship with my in-laws?
Answer 2: Building a good relationship with your in-laws takes time and effort. Here are some tips:
- Make an effort to get to know them better. Ask them about their lives, their interests, and their family.
- Spend time with them regularly. Invite them over for dinner, go on outings together, or simply chat over the phone.
- Be supportive and understanding. Be there for them when they need you, and try to understand their perspective, even if you don't always agree with them.
- Be yourself. Don't try to be someone you're not just to impress them. They'll appreciate you more if they know the real you.
Question 3: What should I do if I have a disagreement with my in-laws?
Answer 3: Disagreements are a normal part of any relationship. When you have a disagreement with your in-laws, it's important to:
- Stay calm and respectful. Avoid raising your voice or making personal attacks.
- Listen to their point of view and try to understand their perspective.
- Express your own point of view in a clear and respectful manner.
- Be willing to compromise and find a solution that works for both of you.
These are just a few tips for navigating your relationship with your in-laws. Remember, the most important thing is to be respectful, understanding, and supportive. With time and effort, you can build a strong and lasting relationship with them.
In addition to the tips above, here are some additional things you can do to make a good impression on your in-laws:
Tips
Here are a few practical tips for building and maintaining a good relationship with your in-laws:
Tip 1: Be respectful and polite.
This means using polite language, addressing them with their proper titles (e.g., Mr. and Mrs.), and listening attentively to what they have to say. It also means respecting their opinions, even if you don't agree with them.
Tip 2: Make an effort to get to know them.
Ask them about their lives, their interests, and their family. Show genuine interest in what they have to say. The more you know about them, the easier it will be to build a relationship with them.
Tip 3: Be supportive and understanding.
Be there for them when they need you, and try to understand their perspective, even if you don't always agree with them. Offer your help and support whenever you can, and let them know that you're always there for them.
Tip 4: Be yourself.
Don't try to be someone you're not just to impress them. They'll appreciate you more if they know the real you. Be genuine and authentic, and let your personality shine through.
By following these tips, you can build a strong and lasting relationship with your in-laws. Remember, the most important thing is to be respectful, understanding, and supportive. With time and effort, you can create a positive and loving relationship with them.
Building a good relationship with your in-laws is an important part of creating a happy and harmonious family life. By following these tips, you can lay the foundation for a strong and lasting relationship with your spouse's parents.
Conclusion
Building a good relationship with your in-laws is an important part of creating a happy and harmonious family life. It can be challenging at times, but it is definitely worth the effort. By following the tips in this article, you can lay the foundation for a strong and lasting relationship with your spouse's parents.
Remember, the most important thing is to be respectful, understanding, and supportive. Be yourself, and make an effort to get to know them. Be there for them when they need you, and always treat them with kindness and compassion.
With time and effort, you can build a strong and loving relationship with your in-laws. This will not only benefit you and your spouse, but it will also create a positive and supportive environment for your entire family.