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How to Say "breakup" in Spanish

English → Spanish

ruptura

roop-TOO-rah/rupˈtu.ɾa/

nounB1general
Use 'ruptura' to describe the end of a romantic relationship, such as a boyfriend-girlfriend or dating couple, emphasizing the emotional break.
A storybook illustration showing two simple, stylized figures standing far apart from each other on a plain background, symbolizing separation.

Examples

Su ruptura después de cinco años fue muy dolorosa.

Their breakup after five years was very painful.

La ruptura de las negociaciones sorprendió a todos los países.

The rupture of negotiations surprised all the countries.

Always Feminine

Since 'ruptura' ends in '-a' and is a feminine noun, you must always use feminine articles and adjectives with it (e.g., 'la ruptura', 'una ruptura difícil').

separación

nounB2formal
Use 'separación' primarily for the formal ending of a marriage or long-term legal partnership, often involving legal proceedings.

Examples

Tras veinte años de matrimonio, firmaron los papeles de separación.

After twenty years of marriage, they signed the separation papers.

Ruptura vs. Separación

Learners often confuse 'ruptura' and 'separación' by using 'ruptura' for formal marital splits. Remember that 'separación' is the more appropriate term when referring to the legal or formal dissolution of a marriage or civil union.

Related Translations

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