Infringir vs. romper vs. violar vs. quebrantar
The Spanish language has several words that can be translated to to break or to violate, particularly when referring to laws or rules. These words include infringir, romper, violar, and quebrantar. Each of these words has nuanced meanings and specific contexts in which they are used.
Infringir
C1Infringir means to infringe or to break a law, rule, regulation, or agreement typically in a formal context.
Infringió el acuerdo de confidencialidad.
(He infringed the confidentiality agreement.)
No debemos infringir las reglas del concurso.
(We must not infringe the contest rules.)
Romper
A2Romper generally means to break something physically, but it can also be used metaphorically to mean breaking a rule or promise.
Rompió el vaso al caer.
(He broke the glass when it fell.)
Ha roto la promesa que me hizo.
(She has broken the promise she made to me.)
Violar
B2Violar means to violate or breach something, often with a connotation of forceful or serious transgression such as laws, rights, or personal space.
Violar la ley puede tener graves consecuencias.
(Violating the law can have serious consequences.)
El acusado fue condenado por violar los derechos humanos.
(The defendant was convicted of violating human rights.)
Quebrantar
C1Quebrantar means to break or violate something in a more abstract sense like a resolution, oath, or even moral/ethical principles.
Quebrantó su juramento de servir siempre la verdad.
(He broke his vow always to tell the truth.)
No puedo quebrantar mi promesa de honestidad.
(I cannot break my promise of honesty.)
Summary
In summary, while all these Spanish verbs can mean to break or to violate, their use depends on context. Infringir is used for formal violations like regulations. Romper is more general and covers both physical and metaphorical breaking. Violar implies serious breaches often related to laws and rights. Lastly, quebrantar is used for abstract violations such as breaking oaths or principles.