descanse
“descanse” means “rest” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
rest
Also: take a break, have a rest
📝 In Action
Por favor, descanse y recupere energías.
A2Please, rest and recover your energy.
Señora Pérez, descanse un poco antes de la reunión.
B1Mrs. Pérez, rest a little before the meeting.
No se preocupe, descanse tranquilo.
B1Don't worry, rest easy.
that he/she/it rests
Also: may he/she rest
📝 In Action
Es importante que la máquina descanse después de un uso prolongado.
B1It is important that the machine rests after prolonged use.
Espero que mi colega descanse durante sus vacaciones.
B1I hope my colleague rests during their vacation.
Que descanse en paz, abuelo.
B2May he rest in peace, grandfather.
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "descanse" in Spanish:
rest→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: descanse
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'descanse' as a polite command?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The verb 'descansar' comes from the Latin prefix 'dis-' (meaning 'away' or 'apart') and the word 'campus' (meaning 'field' or 'plain'). The original meaning was literally 'to cease activity in the field' or 'to stop working,' which evolved into the modern sense of resting.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does 'descanse' have two different uses (command and wish)?
'Descanse' is the same special verb form (the present subjunctive) that Spanish uses for two purposes: 1) to give formal, polite commands ('Usted, descanse') and 2) to talk about hopes, wishes, or necessities regarding someone else's action ('Espero que descanse'). The context tells you which meaning is intended.
How is 'descanse' different from 'descansa'?
'Descansa' is the regular present tense form (He/She rests) and the informal command (Tú, rest!). 'Descanse' is the formal command (Usted, rest!) and the special form needed when expressing wishes or doubt.