Inklingo
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respaldo

/rehs-PAHL-doh/

backrest

A close-up of a wooden chair focusing on its sturdy vertical backrest.

In this context, 'respaldo' refers to the backrest of a chair.

respaldo(noun)

mA2

backrest

?

the part of a chair you lean against

Also:

back

?

physical support of a seat

📝 In Action

El respaldo de esta silla de oficina es ajustable.

A2

The backrest of this office chair is adjustable.

Me duele la espalda porque el respaldo del sofá es muy duro.

B1

My back hurts because the back of the sofa is very hard.

Word Connections

Synonyms

Antonyms

Common Collocations

  • respaldo ergonómico – ergonomic backrest

💡 Grammar Points

Masculine Ending

This word ends in -o, making it a masculine noun. Always use 'el' or 'un' with it.

⭐ Usage Tips

Think of 'Espalda'

The word 'respaldo' comes from 'espalda' (back). If it helps your back, it's probably a 'respaldo'!

A person placing a supportive hand on a friend's shoulder to show encouragement.

'Respaldo' can also mean the emotional or moral support given to someone.

respaldo(noun)

mB1

support

?

moral, emotional, or political backing

Also:

endorsement

?

formal approval of a person or idea

📝 In Action

El proyecto cuenta con el respaldo de la comunidad.

B1

The project has the support of the community.

Agradezco tu respaldo en estos momentos difíciles.

B1

I appreciate your support in these difficult moments.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • apoyo (support/help)
  • aval (guarantee/backing)

Antonyms

  • oposición (opposition)
  • rechazo (rejection)

Common Collocations

  • brindar respaldo – to provide backing
  • respaldo político – political support

💡 Grammar Points

Using the Verb 'Contar con'

We often say 'contar con el respaldo' (to count on the support) when describing someone who has backing.

⭐ Usage Tips

Stronger than 'Apoyo'

While 'apoyo' is general help, 'respaldo' feels more like someone is standing behind you as a shield or foundation.

A small external hard drive connected to a glowing computer folder.

In a digital context, 'respaldo' refers to a backup of files.

respaldo(noun)

mB2

backup

?

a copy of digital files

📝 In Action

No olvides hacer un respaldo de tus fotos en la nube.

B2

Don't forget to make a backup of your photos in the cloud.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • copia de seguridad (security copy/backup)

Common Collocations

  • disco de respaldo – backup drive

✏️ Quick Practice

💡 Quick Quiz: respaldo

Question 1 of 2

If you are buying a chair to fix your posture, what part are you most concerned with?

📚 More Resources

Word Family

respaldar(to back up / to support) - verb
espalda(back (body part)) - noun

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 'respaldo' the same as 'apoyo'?

Mostly, yes! 'Apoyo' is more general (help, support). 'Respaldo' specifically implies backing or endorsement—like someone standing behind you to give you strength.

Can I use 'respaldo' for a person?

No, you use 'respaldo' for the *concept* of support. If you want to say someone is your 'backup' or 'support person,' you'd use 'apoyo' or 'aliado'.