How to Say "bankruptcy" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “bankruptcy” is “quiebra” — use 'quiebra' specifically when referring to the legal and financial declaration of insolvency by a business or individual..
quiebra
/KYEH-brah//ˈkje.βɾa/
Examples
La empresa se declaró en quiebra tras acumular deudas impagables.
The company declared bankruptcy after accumulating unpayable debts.
La aerolínea se declaró en quiebra después de la crisis.
The airline declared bankruptcy after the crisis.
Muchos negocios pequeños temen la quiebra.
Many small businesses fear bankruptcy.
Using the word 'en'
To say a company is 'bankrupt,' Spanish uses the phrase 'en quiebra' (in bankruptcy) rather than using it as a simple adjective.
Quiebra vs. Bancarrota
Mistake: “Using 'bancarrota' exclusively.”
Correction: While 'bancarrota' is understood, 'quiebra' is the more standard legal and professional term in most Spanish-speaking countries.
ruina
RWE-nahˈrwi.na
Examples
La mala gestión financiera llevó al negocio a la ruina.
Poor financial management led the business to ruin.
La crisis llevó a muchos pequeños negocios a la ruina.
The crisis led many small businesses to ruin.
Su adicción al juego fue su ruina personal.
His gambling addiction was his personal downfall.
No puedo comprar eso; me dejaría en la ruina.
I can't buy that; it would leave me broke/ruined.
Saying 'Broke'
Mistake: “Using a literal translation like 'Estoy roto' to mean 'I am broke' (financially).”
Correction: The correct, common way to say you are financially ruined is 'Estoy en la ruina.' ('Roto' usually means physically broken or emotionally devastated.)
Quiebra vs. Ruina
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