descuida
/des-KWEE-dah/
don't worry
A reassuring gesture to show that everything is under control.
descuida(verb)
don't worry
?reassuring someone that everything is under control
,never mind
?telling someone not to bother with something
rest assured
?a more formal way of saying don't worry
📝 In Action
—¿Te acuerdas de traer las llaves? —Sí, descuida.
A2—Will you remember to bring the keys? —Yes, don't worry.
Descuida, yo me encargo de la cena esta noche.
A2Don't worry, I'll take care of dinner tonight.
Si no puedes venir, descuida, lo haremos otro día.
B1If you can't come, never mind, we'll do it another day.
💡 Grammar Points
Using it as a Command
Even though it's technically a command (imperative), it sounds very friendly and soft, not like you're bossing someone around.
The 'You' form
'Descuida' is used when talking to a friend (tú). If you are being very formal with someone (usted), you should say 'descuide'.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Confusing with 'Disculpa'
Mistake: "Using 'descuida' to mean 'excuse me'."
Correction: Use 'disculpa' to say sorry or get attention; use 'descuida' to tell someone else not to worry.
⭐ Usage Tips
When to use it
Use it when someone apologizes to you for a small mistake. It tells them 'it's okay, no harm done!'
A neglected plant showing what happens when care is forgotten.
descuida(verb)
neglects
?when someone doesn't take care of their duties
,gets distracted
?losing focus on a task
is careless
?lacking proper attention
📝 In Action
Ella descuida sus plantas y por eso se mueren.
B1She neglects her plants and that's why they die.
Si uno descuida su salud, acaba enfermando.
B1If one neglects their health, they end up getting sick.
💡 Grammar Points
Stating a Fact
In this sense, 'descuida' is just a normal statement about what someone (he, she, or you formal) does.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: descuida
Question 1 of 2
If a friend says '¡Descuida!' after you apologize for being late, what do they mean?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'descuida' the same as 'no te preocupes'?
Yes, they are very similar! 'Descuida' is slightly more concise and specifically implies 'don't bother yourself with this detail, I have it handled.'
Can I use 'descuida' in a formal business email?
It is better to use 'no se preocupe' or 'descuide' (the formal version) if you are writing to a client or a boss you don't know well.