Denominados

Denominados is a Spanish term that functions as the past participle of denominar and as an adjective meaning “the so-called” or “the named.” It agrees in gender and number with the noun it modifies (denominado, denominada, denominados, denominadas). In neutral usage it simply notes that a label has been applied. In journalistic and academic contexts, it often carries a hedging nuance, signaling that the label may be disputed or controversial. It can introduce a phrase such as lo denominado, meaning “that which is called” or “what is called.”

Common uses include:

- Los denominados expertos advierten de la falta de evidencia. (The so-called experts warn of the lack of evidence.)

- Las denominadas reformas no han logrado el objetivo. (The so-called reforms have not achieved the objective.)

Notes:

- While frequently neutral, the expression can imply skepticism or disparagement depending on context and tone.

- It is distinct from denominación or denominaciones, which are nouns meaning names or denominations; also from denominations in religious contexts, which are typically rendered as denominaciones.

Usage tips:

- Use with a noun to signal that the term is a label assigned by others, not necessarily a universally accepted designation.

- Avoid overuse in straightforward statements where the label adds no clarity; reserve for contexts discussing controversy, critique, or labeling practices.

Translations:

- The standard English rendering is “the so-called.” The literal past participle “denominated” is uncommon outside technical or formal writing.