How To Say "Guilty" In Spanish
Learning a new language opens up a world of possibilities, enabling you to connect with people from different cultures and backgrounds. One essential aspect of any language is understanding and expressing emotions, including feelings of guilt. In this article, we will explore how to say the term "guilty" in Spanish, along with its meaning and usage.

What is "Guilty" in Spanish?
The term "guilty" in Spanish is translated as culpable (IPA: /kulˈpa.ble/). This word is used to describe the state of being responsible for wrongdoing or a sense of moral or legal obligation.
Meaning of "Guilty" in Spanish
"Culpable" carries the same weight in Spanish as its English counterpart. It refers to the feeling or acknowledgment of having committed an offense, mistake, or violation of a moral or legal standard. Understanding how to convey this emotion accurately in Spanish is crucial for effective communication.
Regional Variations
Just like in English, where regional dialects and nuances exist, Spanish also has variations across different countries and regions. While "culpable" is widely understood and used throughout the Spanish-speaking world, you might encounter regional alternatives or slight variations in pronunciation:
- In Mexico, you may hear culpado (IPA: /kulˈpaðo/) used informally to convey guilt.
- In Argentina, responsable (IPA: /responˈsaβle/) can sometimes be used interchangeably with "culpable" in informal contexts.
How to Say "Guilty" in Spanish: Sample Sentences
Here are five sample sentences you can use to say "guilty" in Spanish:
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Él se siente culpable por lo que hizo.
(He feels guilty for what he did.)
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Después de la confesión, ella se declaró culpable.
(After the confession, she pleaded guilty.)
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Los testigos lo identificaron como el culpable.
(The witnesses identified him as the guilty party.)
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Ellas se sienten culpables por no haber ayudado.
(They feel guilty for not having helped.)
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Después de un largo juicio, el jurado lo encontró culpable.
(After a long trial, the jury found him guilty.)
Conclusion
Understanding how to say the term "guilty" in Spanish, along with its meaning and usage, is crucial for effective communication in any Spanish-speaking context. Whether you find yourself in Mexico, Argentina, or any other Spanish-speaking country, knowing how to express guilt accurately will help you navigate conversations with confidence. Remember to consider regional variations, plural forms, and practice using "culpable" in context to master this important aspect of the Spanish language. Happy learning!