Spanish vocabulary · Beginner
How to Say Marriage in Spanish: Matrimonio
Matrimonio · noun (masculine) · mah-tree-MOH-nyoh
The Spanish word for marriage is 'matrimonio,' referring to the legal and social institution of being married. 'Casamiento' is a widely used synonym, particularly in Argentina, that focuses more on the act or ceremony of getting married. Both words are considered standard and interchangeable in most contexts.
Pronounce it mah-tree-MOH-nyoh, with four syllables and stress on the third. The 'ni' creates a soft 'ny' sound similar to the 'ñ.'
Llevan treinta años de matrimonio y siguen tan unidos como al principio.
They have been in their marriage for thirty years and remain as close as the beginning.
Marriage in Spanish: Quick Reference
Below are the most common Spanish words for marriage, with pronunciation and regional usage notes.
| Spanish | English | Pronunciation | Region / Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| matrimonio | marriage | mah-tree-MOH-nyoh | Default, widely understood |
| casamiento | marriage | common in Argentina and other South American countries |
How Native Speakers Use Matrimonio
Real example sentences across three contexts you'll actually run into.
Legal context
El certificado de matrimonio es necesario para los trámites de visa.
The marriage certificate is required for visa paperwork.
Gathering documents for immigration.
Relationship milestone
Celebramos nuestro aniversario de matrimonio con una cena especial.
We celebrated our marriage anniversary with a special dinner.
Marking a wedding anniversary.
Social commentary
El concepto de matrimonio ha evolucionado significativamente en las últimas décadas.
The concept of marriage has evolved significantly in recent decades.
Discussing social change.
Avoid These Mistakes When Using Matrimonio
Confusing matrimonio with boda
Incorrect: Nuestro matrimonio será en la playa (meaning the ceremony).
Correct: Nuestra boda será en la playa.
'Matrimonio' refers to the ongoing institution or state of being married, while 'boda' refers to the wedding ceremony and celebration.
Wrong gender
Incorrect: La matrimonio es sagrada.
Correct: El matrimonio es sagrado.
'Matrimonio' is a masculine noun requiring the article 'el' and masculine adjective endings.
Lock in Marriage Vocabulary with the Parrot Method
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See Matrimonio used by native speakers
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Common Questions About Marriage in Spanish
- What is the difference between 'matrimonio' and 'boda'?
- A 'boda' is the wedding event or ceremony, while 'matrimonio' refers to the legal bond and ongoing relationship between spouses that begins after the wedding.
- How do I say 'married couple' in Spanish?
- A married couple can be called 'matrimonio' (the marriage) or 'pareja casada' (married couple), with 'matrimonio' being commonly used to refer to the couple themselves.
- What is the verb for 'to marry' in Spanish?
- The verb is 'casarse' (reflexive), used as 'se casaron en junio' (they married in June), while 'contraer matrimonio' is the formal legal expression.