Universal Spanish

We recently received a question regarding Universal Spanish and realized that a wider audience may have a similar question. Universal Spanish, also known as neutral Spanish, may be understood by a wider audience. By definition, it is not localized or targeted. Interestingly (and paradoxically), there is no universal standard for Universal Spanish. The term is used more to describe an approach to translation, rather than to describe its own language.

The approach to creating a translation in universal Spanish is to avoid regionalisms, colloquialisms, slang, etc., which may be particular to a Spanish speaking country or region. An example is that in Spanish that is used in Spain, the word vosotros is the plural form of you. To use a universal Spanish translation, the plural form of you is ustedes.

While it seems like Universal Spanish may be the best way to ask for a translation, it may seem flat or lacking in expression.

When something needs to be standardized, such as safety instructions for machines sold in multiple Spanish speaking countries, Universal Spanish is more cost-effective and the tone is more formal.

For advertising, storytelling, marketing, and other creative material aimed at a targeted audience, localization may be the preferred option.