Background
Infante/a is Spanish title/rank that is used to denote a child of the monarch (or former monarch). It is also used by grandchildren down the male-line.
In terms of rank, a Infante/a holds the same position as other Prince/ss in Europe. However, in Spain, they only use the term “Príncipe/Princesa” (Spanish for Prince/ss) for the heir to the throne and their spouse.
How can Infante/a be translated into English?
We have seen the Spain Palace & Government use both Infante/a and Prince/ss when posting in English. Therefore, we know either are acceptable translations.
Using “Infante/a”, in English, is the more literal (word-for-word) translation. And is more formal and correct.
Using “Prince/ss”, in English, is the conceptual (sense-for-sense) translation. A infante/a holds the same position as other “Prince/ss,” so that is the closet equivalent in English. (You will sometimes see people use Crown Prince/ss for the Heir, as a way of maintaining the distinction between the Heir and other family members)
We list, at the bottom of the page, some examples of Sofia being referred to as “Princess Sofia” during King Felipe’s reign.
Princess vs. Infanta – Toggle
This toggle can be found in the “Setting” panel. The toggle allows you to choose how the Spain title Infante/a is translated into English, either as Infante/a or Prince/ss.
The toggle works via Javascript code. When Gert’s Royals writes a post, we use a codeword, in this case “Prince” or “Princess” with either an asterisk* at the end. The Javascript see the codeword and will then display the appropriate term depending on the toggle position.
Because the Javascript is looking for a specific codeword, we have to specially insert it everywhere we want the toggle to have an effect.
Code Words
Use of Princess Sofia in English
2014
- The booklet for the press created by the Palace and Spain government for the abdication of King Juan Carlos/accession of King Felipe refers to Sofia as “Infanta” most of the time. But there is a reference to “Princess Sofia” on page 10.
- Official English translation of King Felipe’s speech at Prince of Asturias awards refers to her as “Princess Sofia. (This was the final Prince of Asturias awards before the name change.)
- Book of Prince of Asturias Awards’ speeches refers to her as “Princess Sofia.”
2015
2016
2017
- The official English translation of King Felipe’s Christmas Address refers to her as “Princess Sofia.
2018
2019
- Post on President of Spain’s website about National Day refers to her as “Princess Sofia.” The bottom of the post states “Non official translation,” as is done on all the English news posts on the website.
- The official English translation of King Felipe’s Christmas Address refers to her as “Princess Sofia.
2020
- Post on President of Spain’s Website on State Opening of Parliament refers to her as “Princess Sofia”. The bottom of the post states “Non official translation,” as is done on all the English news posts on the website.
- The official English translation of King Felipe’s Christmas Address refers to her as “Princess Sofia.
2021
2022
2023
- Press Release from Princess of Asturias Foundation about 2023 awards refers to her as “Princess Sofia.”
- The official English translation of King Felipe’s Christmas Address refers to her as “Princess Sofia.”
2024
2025
- Spain Embassy in UK refers to her as “Princess Sofia” in tweet about Sofia’s graduation from UWC Atlantic College.
- The official English translation of King Felipe’s Christmas Address refers to her as “Princess Sofia.”
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