How to Say "deteriorated" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “deteriorated” is “complicada” — use 'complicada' when 'deteriorated' refers to a situation, especially a medical condition, that has become more difficult, complex, or serious..
complicada
/kom-pli-KAH-dah//kom.pliˈka.ða/
Examples
La herida se ha complicado y ahora requiere cirugía urgente.
The wound has worsened/become complicated and now requires urgent surgery.
La paciente fue trasladada porque su situación era muy complicada.
The patient was transferred because her situation was very serious/worsened.
As a Past Participle
When used after a form of 'haber' or 'estar,' 'complicada' acts like the past participle of the verb 'complicar' (to complicate), meaning something has been made difficult or worsened by an action.
degenerado
/deh-heh-neh-rah-doh//de̝xeneˈɾaðo/
Examples
El médico analizó el tejido degenerado bajo el microscopio.
The doctor analyzed the deteriorated tissue under the microscope.
Estamos viviendo en un ambiente político degenerado.
We are living in a degenerate political environment.
Su conducta mostró un gusto degenerado por el caos.
His behavior showed a depraved taste for chaos.
Matching the Noun
Even though we are looking at the word 'degenerado', you must change the ending to 'degenerada' if you are describing a feminine object or person.
Using with 'estar'
When describing a physical state that has changed over time (like health or a building), we usually use the verb 'estar' before this word.
Confusing with 'broken'
Mistake: “La silla está degenerada.”
Correction: La silla está rota. (Use 'degenerado' for things that have lost their quality or essence, not just simple mechanical failure.)
Complicada vs. Degenerado
Related Translations
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