fracaso
“fracaso” means “failure” in Spanish (general lack of success).
failure, fiasco
Also: setback, bust
📝 In Action
El proyecto fue un fracaso total después de dos años.
B1The project was a total failure after two years.
No tengas miedo al fracaso, es parte del aprendizaje.
B2Don't be afraid of failure; it's part of learning.
Su matrimonio terminó en fracaso.
B1His marriage ended in failure.
La fiesta de lanzamiento resultó ser un fracaso.
B2The launch party turned out to be a flop (a fiasco).
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: fracaso
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence correctly uses 'fracaso'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from the Italian 'fracasso,' meaning 'noise,' 'uproar,' or 'crash.' This sense of a loud, sudden break or collapse eventually evolved in Spanish to mean a complete collapse of plans or an effort, hence 'failure.'
First recorded: 17th century (in Spanish with the meaning of failure)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use 'fracaso' to describe a person?
Yes, but it is extremely harsh and negative. Saying 'Él es un fracaso' (He is a failure) is much stronger than using the related adjective/noun 'fracasado' (a failed person or person who failed). Stick to describing events or plans with 'fracaso' unless you want to be very critical.