cónyuge
nounCEFR B2
What does “cónyuge” mean in English?
spouse, partner
spouse, partner (a legally married partner; el cónyuge; cónyuge de hecho in some regional legal registers)
Example sentences
el cónyuge titular del contrato
the policyholder's spouse
los derechos del cónyuge sobreviviente
the surviving spouse's rights
How to use it
'Cónyuge' is the formal/legal term for a married partner of either sex; avoid it in casual speech where 'marido/mujer' or 'pareja' is natural. The adjective 'conyugal' derives from it and appears in legal documents. Used in administrative, tax, and inheritance law contexts.
Common mistake
Don't use 'cónyuge' in everyday conversation — it sounds bureaucratic and cold. Reserve it for legal or administrative contexts; use 'pareja' or 'marido/mujer' informally.