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"Decreto" is a form of "decreto", a noun which is often translated as "decree". "Ley" is a noun which is often translated as "law". Learn more about the difference between "ley" and "decreto" below.
la ley(
ley
)A feminine noun is almost always used with feminine articles and adjectives (e.g., la mujer bonita, la luna llena).
1. (rule)
a. law
La nueva ley de atención médica ha resultado ser polémica.The new healthcare law has turned out to be controversial.
a. law (uncountable)
Todos deberíamos ser iguales ante la ley.We should all be equal in the eyes of the law.
a. law
¿Me puedes explicar la ley de la conservación de la energía?Can you explain the the law of conservation of energy to me?
el decreto(
deh
-
kreh
-
toh
)A masculine noun is used with masculine articles and adjectives (e.g., el hombre guapo, el sol amarillo).
1. (general)
a. decree
El gobierno emitió un decreto que regula la pornografía.The government issued a decree regulating pornography.
b. order
El Instituto Nacional se creó formalmente el 8 de diciembre de 1935 por decreto presidencial.The National Institute was formally created on December 8, 1935 by presidential decree.
