• 16 June, 21
• |Schools

Differences between Latin American Spanish and Spanish from Spain

Spanish is one of the oldest and most historically rich languages in existence. This Romance language has gone through many changes over the years to become the language we speak today. However, even today, there are differences in Spanish depending on where it is spoken. That is why today we have decided to explain to you the differences between Latin American Spanish and Spanish from Spain..

Importance of knowing the differences between the Spanish of both regions

The dialectal variants of the same language have existed for many years. They are different versions of the same language that tend to present changes, mainly in terms of pronunciation and variants of certain words.

This is something that happens both within the same country and in different countries that speak the same language. In the case of Spanish-speaking countries, there are key differences that appear at first glance. Spanish spoken in Spain is not at all the same as Spanish spoken in Latin America.

Such variations in the language can arise for many reasons. Especially the influence of foreign immigrants with their mother tongues.

However, this is something totally normal that has been happening for many years and not only with Spanish. Every language can have variants depending on where it is spoken. That is why there are also differences between American and British English.

Principal differences between Latin American and Spanish

Now, for today's article we will focus only on the differences between Latin American and Spanish. We will explain what the main differences are according to various factors that make up the language so that you can easily understand the distinctions.

Differences in pronunciation

One of the main distinguishing features that can be noticed as soon as you hear a Spaniard and a Latino speak has to do with pronunciation. The way in which certain words and letters are pronounced in each of these variants is extremely different.

One of the clearest differences of all has to do with the pronunciation of letters such as "S" and "Z". In many regions of Latin America the letter "S", especially when it is at the end of words, is often aspirated or even omitted. Whereas in Spain it is always pronounced concisely, at least in most of the country.

On the other hand, as far as the "Z" is concerned, in Latin America it is a sound that is pronounced in the same way as the "S". Whereas in Spain it is more similar to the way "TH" is pronounced in English.

However, the sound of "LL" in words is also quite different. Within Spain, a sound similar to "Y" is used, but in some Latin American countries, especially within Uruguay and Argentina, the sound is more like "SH".

Similarly, in regions closer to the Caribbean in Latin America, many of the words with "R" are pronounced with "L". Although the reason for this is unknown, many linguists claim that it is due to easiness of pronunciation.

Differences in grammar

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Another aspect in which there are differences in the Spanish language has to do with grammar. Particularly with regard to the way of referring to people when speaking.

The main difference in this has to do with the use of personal pronouns such as "Ustedes" and "Vosotros". While in Spain "Vosotros" is used for the second person plural, in Latin America "Ustedes" is used. In Spain, this is only used in extremely formal situations.

On the other hand, there is the case of voseo. Although it is true that the use of "Vos" as the second personal of the singular came to Latin America during the Spanish conquest, today it is a term in disuse in Spain.

Even within Latin America, only in countries such as Argentina, Uruguay and other specific regions of Latin American countries, "Vos" is used. Whereas in the rest of the continent and in Spain the "Tú" is used.

Differences in vocabulary

Finally, vocabulary also changes significantly in both regions. A word in Latin America may not mean the same thing in Spain. Therefore, here is a table with the main differences in vocabulary.

Do you want to learn Spanish correctly?

Now that you know the differences between Latin American Spanish and Spanish from Spain, you are undoubtedly much more prepared to speak it. Whether you are going to travel to one or the other of these countries. Of course, if you want to learn the language much better, you need to attend Spanish classes or hire the services of a private tutor.

If you are more interested in the latter option, you should know that through WeSmartly you can get in touch with a wide variety of tutors willing to help you. Among them you are sure to find a Spanish tutor who will teach you the best way possible. So don't wait any longer and start learning and practising Spanish.