malestar
“malestar” means “discomfort” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
discomfort
Also: malaise, feeling under the weather
📝 In Action
Siento un malestar general por la gripe.
A2I feel a general discomfort because of the flu.
El paciente describió un leve malestar en el estómago.
B1The patient described a slight discomfort in their stomach.
A pesar de su malestar físico, fue a la fiesta.
B2Despite her physical discomfort, she went to the party.
unrest
Also: discontent, unease
📝 In Action
Hay mucho malestar social por la subida de los precios.
B2There is a lot of social unrest due to the price increases.
Sus palabras crearon malestar entre los empleados.
B2His words created unease among the employees.
El malestar político se nota en las calles.
C1The political discontent is noticeable in the streets.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: malestar
Question 1 of 3
Which of these would you use to describe a society angry about taxes?
📚 More Resources
📚 Etymology▼
Formed by combining the Spanish words 'mal' (bad) and 'estar' (to be). It literally describes the state of 'being bad' or 'being in a bad way'.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'dolor' and 'malestar'?
'Dolor' is a specific, sharp pain (like a cut or a headache). 'Malestar' is a vague, general feeling of being unwell or uncomfortable.
Can 'malestar' be plural?
Yes, 'malestares' exists, but it's much more common to use the singular form even when talking about several different symptoms or problems.
Is it a formal word?
It's neutral! You can use it with your doctor, your boss, or your best friend.