Alto el fuego vs. tregua
The Spanish words 'alto el fuego' and 'tregua' both refer to the cessation of warfare or conflict, generally translated in English as 'ceasefire' or 'truce'. However, they are used in slightly different contexts. Let's inspect them more thoroughly.
Alto el fuego
This phrase is typically used to describe a temporary stop in active warfare, often due to negotiations or enforced by an outside authority. The term 'ceasefire' is the most common English translation.
El alto el fuego se acordó para permitir la entrega de ayuda humanitaria.
(The ceasefire was agreed to allow the delivery of humanitarian aid.)
El consejo de seguridad de la ONU llamó a un alto el fuego global en respuesta al COVID-19.
(The UN Security Council called for a global ceasefire in response to COVID-19.)
Tregua
'Tregua' often refers to an agreement between parties in conflict to pause their dispute for a period of time, typically for specific occasions, festive periods, or negotiations. It is commonly translated in English as 'truce'.
Ambas partes acordaron una tregua durante las celebraciones navideñas.
(Both sides agreed on a truce during the Christmas celebrations.)
Durante la tregua, los soldados enemigos intercambiaron regalos y jugaron partidos de fútbol.
(During the truce, enemy soldiers exchanged gifts and played football matches.)
Summary
'Alto el fuego' and 'tregua' both imply pauses in conflict but are typically used in different contexts. 'Alto el fuego' normally describes a pause in warfare, often commanded by an external authority or due to negotiations, while 'tregua' refers to an agreed pause between conflicting parties often for specific occasions or negotiations.