"Legal" vs. "jurídico" in Spanish: Understanding the Difference Between These Key Concepts
In Spanish legal language, the terms «legal» and «jurídico» are often used as if they were interchangeable. However, they are not always true synonyms. While both relate to the field of law, they carry different nuances and are used in different contexts. This article explains the distinction as it exists in Spanish, clarifying how and when each term should be used. Where relevant, we will also refer to English equivalents to help translators and bilingual legal professionals better understand the contrast.
Table of contents
What Does “Legal” Mean in Spanish?
The term «legal» refers to something that is directly related to the law refers to something that is directly related to the law, or that is permitted, prohibited, or regulated by it. It describes situations, acts, or documents that are grounded in the written rules of a specific legal system.
Main Characteristics of “Legal” in Spanish:
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- It refers to compliance with the law (conforme a la ley).
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- It has a practical and concrete meaning, focused on on the application and effects of legal rules..
Examples:
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- Este contrato es legalmente vinculante: This contract is legally binding.
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- La edad legal para votar es 18 años: Legal age to vote is 18.
What Does “Jurídico” Refer To?
Carlos Nino in Introducción al análisis del derecho highlights the difficulty of defining law itself. Following his approach, the word “law” is ambiguous because it has several meanings. It may refer to: a legal system or set of rules (objective law, A right, entitlement, or permission (subjective right, or the study of law or the analysis of legal reality.
Key Differences Between “Legal” and “Jurídico” in Spanish
Although both adjectives belong to the legal domain, their uses differ significantly:
| Aspect | Legal | Sistema jurídico |
|---|---|---|
| Approach | Practical: what is permitted, prohibited, or regulated by law | Theoretical or structural: related to law as a system |
| Use | Everyday, administrative, or professional contexts | Academic, doctrinal, or specialized contexts |
| Example in context | Asesoramiento legal (legal advice) | Teoría jurídica (juridical / legal theory) |
Why Is This Distinction Important?
For legal translators, lawyers, and legal professionals working between Spanish and English, understanding this distinction is essential.
- In Legal Translation: translating "legal system" into Spanish as "sistema jurídico" is often correct, but it is not always interchangeable with sistema legal. The choice depends on whether the focus is on the body of laws or on the broader legal structure and principles.
- In Academic Writing: A text dealing with juridical theory/legal doctrine (teoría jurídica) differs from one that addresses specific legal rules or obligations, which would normally be described as legal..
Practical Examples
- In contracts:
A contract is described aslegalmente vinculante (legally binding)because its enforceability derives from the law. However, an analysis of its wording, structure, or concepts may be part of juridical language (lenguaje jurídico). - In legal systems:
- Legal system (sistema legal) usually refers to the set of laws and regulations in force in a country.
- Sistema jurídico has a broader meaning, encompassing not only rules but also institutions, principles, and the underlying legal philosophy.
Conclusión:
Although “legal” and “jurídico” are closely related in Spanish, they are not interchangeable. “Legal” focuses on the practical application of the law, while “jurídico” refers to law as a system, a discipline, and a conceptual framework. Understanding this distinction is crucial for accurate legal writing, translation, and professional communication in bilingual legal contexts.
If you are interested in exploring Spanish legal terminology in greater depth—or in understanding how these concepts are rendered in English—check out our specialized Legal English and legal translation resources.
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