Spanish Conversation · Level 119
60 words
Spanish word
élite
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈelite/
Meaning
- feminine nounelite
Example
La élite controla la economía.
The elite controls the economy.
More examples
La élite política suele influir en las decisiones del gobierno.
The political elite often influences government decisions.
Core concept
A selected few who occupy positions of privilege in society.
Common phrases
la élite política
the political elite
la élite económica
the economic elite
Similar words
clase alta: Upper social class characterized by economic advantage and high standing.
gente adinerada: Individuals with large amounts of money and material assets.
grupo selecto: Exclusive handful chosen for membership based on particular qualifications.
dirigencia: Leadership body responsible for directing policies and organizational decisions.
Definition in Spanish
Personas destacadas por su alto estatus o habilidades que ocupan posiciones de privilegio en distintos ámbitos.
Word origin
Via French from Latin eligere 'to choose', the word originally described those chosen and now denotes a small group with superior status or skills.
Usage tips
- Often treated as a collective singular (la élite) rather than a regular plural, with élites used mainly when contrasting distinct elite groups.