Inklingo

How to Say "compensation" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “compensation” is “compensación” — use this general term for any money or benefit received as a result of a loss, damage, or injury, or for work performed.

English → Spanish

compensación

nounB1general
Use this general term for any money or benefit received as a result of a loss, damage, or injury, or for work performed.

Examples

Recibí una compensación por el vuelo cancelado.

I received compensation for the canceled flight.

indemnización

nounB2formal, legal
This word specifically refers to a sum of money paid to compensate for a loss or injury, often in a more formal or legal context.

Examples

La aerolínea me dio una indemnización por el retraso del vuelo.

The airline gave me compensation for the flight delay.

recompensa

reh-kohm-PEHN-sahre.komˈpen.sa

nounB1general
Use this word when the compensation is a reward for a service, effort, or completing a task, rather than solely for a loss.
A tall, gleaming golden trophy sitting on a small pedestal, signifying a prize for achievement.

Examples

La recompensa por trabajar horas extras será un día libre.

The reward for working overtime will be a day off.

Ofrecieron una gran recompensa por información sobre el robo.

They offered a large reward for information about the robbery.

Ver a mis estudiantes triunfar es mi mejor recompensa.

Seeing my students succeed is my best reward.

Always Feminine

Since 'recompensa' ends in -a, it is a feminine noun, so you must use 'la' or 'una' before it: 'La recompensa es justa' (The reward is fair).

Gender Confusion

Mistake: “El recompensa”

Correction: La recompensa. Remember to use the feminine article 'la' or 'una' since this word is feminine.

reparación

nounB2formal, ethical
This term implies making amends for harm or loss, which can include financial payment or specific actions to rectify a wrong.

Examples

Las víctimas exigen una reparación justa.

The victims demand just reparation.

General vs. Specific Compensation

Learners often confuse 'compensación' and 'indemnización'. While 'compensación' is a broad term for any compensation, 'indemnización' is more specific to financial payments for damages or losses, often in legal or official situations.

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