Spanish vocabulary · Beginner
How to Say Commitment in Spanish
Compromiso · noun · com-pro-MEE-so
The Spanish word compromiso translates to commitment, meaning a binding obligation, promise, or deep dedication. Be careful: compromiso does not mean compromise in English—it means commitment or obligation.
com-pro-MEE-so
Su compromiso con el proyecto fue admirable.
His commitment to the project was admirable.
Commitment in Spanish: Quick Reference
Below are the most common Spanish words for commitment, with pronunciation and regional usage notes.
| Spanish | English | Pronunciation | Region / Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| compromiso | commitment | com-pro-MEE-so | Default, widely understood |
| dedicación | commitment | General | |
| obligación | commitment | General | |
| empeño | commitment | General |
How Native Speakers Use Compromiso
Real example sentences across three contexts you'll actually run into.
Workplace dedication
Ella demuestra un gran compromiso con su trabajo todos los días.
She demonstrates a great commitment to her work every day.
Describing someone's dedication in a professional setting.
Relationship promise
El matrimonio es un compromiso serio entre dos personas.
Marriage is a serious commitment between two people.
Talking about commitment in the context of a relationship.
Social engagement
Tengo un compromiso esta noche y no puedo cancelarlo.
I have a commitment tonight and I cannot cancel it.
Using compromiso to refer to a scheduled obligation or engagement.
Avoid These Mistakes When Using Compromiso
False cognate with compromise
Incorrect: Llegamos a un compromiso después de la discusión.
Correct: Llegamos a un acuerdo después de la discusión.
Compromiso means commitment or obligation, not compromise. The correct Spanish word for compromise (a mutual agreement) is acuerdo or solución intermedia.
Confusing compromiso with promesa
Incorrect: Le hice un compromiso de que vendría temprano.
Correct: Le hice una promesa de que vendría temprano.
While both involve pledges, promesa specifically means a promise made to someone. Compromiso refers to an obligation or commitment, not a verbal promise.
Lock in Commitment Vocabulary with the Parrot Method
Why word lists alone don't stick
Memorizing a translation feels productive, but most learners forget 70% of what they studied within 48 hours. Vocabulary needs spaced repetition AND real-world exposure to transfer to long-term memory.
See Compromiso used by native speakers
Parrot's short-form videos feature native speakers using compromiso in real situations. Context-based exposure beats flashcards, you hear Su compromiso con el proyecto fue admirable. while watching someone live the moment, connecting meaning, sound, and rhythm at once.
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Common Questions About Commitment in Spanish
- Is compromiso really a false cognate with compromise?
- Compromiso is indeed a well-known false cognate — in Spanish it means commitment or obligation, not a mutual concession. To express the English idea of compromise, use acuerdo (agreement) or término medio (middle ground).
- When should I use dedicación instead of compromiso?
- Use dedicación when emphasizing personal devotion and effort toward something, such as a passion or craft. Compromiso is better suited for formal obligations, pledges, or binding agreements.
- Can compromiso mean an engagement or appointment?
- Compromiso often refers to a social engagement or scheduled obligation in everyday Spanish, such as a dinner or meeting you are expected to attend. Tengo un compromiso is a polite way to say you have a prior engagement.