Spanish vocabulary · Beginner
How to Say Joy in Spanish: Alegría
Alegría · noun (feminine) · ah-leh-GREE-ah
The Spanish word for joy is 'alegría,' a feminine noun that encompasses feelings of happiness, delight, and elation. It derives from the adjective 'alegre' (cheerful). The word 'gozo' is a more literary or spiritual synonym, while 'júbilo' suggests intense public celebration. 'Alegría' is one of the most expressive emotion words in Spanish.
Pronounce it ah-leh-GREE-ah, with four syllables and stress on the third. The accent mark ensures the stress falls on the 'i.'
La alegría de ver a mi familia después de tanto tiempo fue indescriptible.
The joy of seeing my family after so long was indescribable.
Joy in Spanish: Quick Reference
Below are the most common Spanish words for joy, with pronunciation and regional usage notes.
| Spanish | English | Pronunciation | Region / Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| alegría | joy | ah-leh-GREE-ah | Default, widely understood |
| gozo | joy | literary or religious register, emphasizing deep spiritual joy | |
| júbilo | joy | formal term for jubilation or intense collective joy |
How Native Speakers Use Alegría
Real example sentences across three contexts you'll actually run into.
Expressing emotion
Sentí una gran alegría cuando me dieron la noticia.
I felt great joy when they gave me the news.
Receiving exciting personal news.
Celebrating together
La alegría del público era contagiosa durante el desfile.
The joy of the crowd was contagious during the parade.
Describing a festive atmosphere.
Philosophical reflection
La verdadera alegría viene de las relaciones, no de las posesiones.
True joy comes from relationships, not possessions.
Sharing a life perspective.
Avoid These Mistakes When Using Alegría
Confusing alegría with felicidad
Incorrect: Le deseo mucha alegría (intending lifelong happiness).
Correct: Le deseo mucha felicidad.
'Alegría' refers to a feeling of active joy or delight, while 'felicidad' encompasses overall happiness and well-being as a broader state.
Wrong gender article
Incorrect: El alegría de vivir es hermosa.
Correct: La alegría de vivir es hermosa.
'Alegría' is a feminine noun that takes the article 'la,' not 'el,' despite ending in '-ía.'
Lock in Joy 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 Alegría used by native speakers
Parrot's short-form videos feature native speakers using alegría in real situations. Context-based exposure beats flashcards, you hear La alegría de ver a mi familia después de tanto tiempo fue indescriptible. while watching someone live the moment, connecting meaning, sound, and rhythm at once.
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Common Questions About Joy in Spanish
- What is the difference between 'alegría' and 'felicidad'?
- The word 'alegría' describes an active, visible emotion of joy or delight, often triggered by a specific event, while 'felicidad' refers to a deeper, sustained state of overall happiness and contentment.
- Is 'alegría' also a name?
- Alegría is used as a given name for girls in Spanish-speaking countries and is also the title of a famous Cirque du Soleil show, reflecting the word's positive cultural associations.
- How do I say 'tears of joy' in Spanish?
- Tears of joy translates as 'lágrimas de alegría,' a phrase commonly used when describing overwhelming emotional moments at weddings, graduations, and reunions.