How to Say "deterioration" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “deterioration” is “deterioro” — use this general term for the physical decay or worsening of something, like an object, building, or even a person's health..
deterioro
/deh-teh-ryoh-roh//deteˈɾjoɾo/
Examples
El deterioro de la vieja casa es muy evidente.
The deterioration of the old house is very obvious.
Fumar causa un grave deterioro de los pulmones.
Smoking causes a serious worsening of the lungs.
Debemos evitar el deterioro de nuestras relaciones diplomáticas.
We must avoid the worsening of our diplomatic relations.
Always Masculine
This word is always masculine. You should always use 'el' or 'un' with it (el deterioro, un deterioro).
Noun vs. Action
'Deterioro' is the thing or the state of being bad. If you want to describe the action of getting worse, use the verb 'deteriorar'.
Confusing with 'Daño'
Mistake: “El terremoto causó un deterioro en la pared.”
Correction: El terremoto causó un 'daño' en la pared. Use 'daño' for sudden breaks and 'deterioro' for things that get worse slowly over time.
degradación
Examples
La degradación del suelo afecta a los agricultores de la región.
Soil degradation affects the farmers in the region.
decadencia
/deh-kah-DEN-syah//dekaˈdenθja/
Examples
La decadencia del Imperio Romano duró varios siglos.
The decline of the Roman Empire lasted several centuries.
El barrio ha entrado en una fase de decadencia.
The neighborhood has entered a phase of decay.
El edificio muestra signos claros de decadencia física.
The building shows clear signs of physical deterioration.
Always Feminine
This word is a feminine naming word. You must always use feminine markers like 'la' or 'una' with it.
Describing the Cause
When you want to say what is declining, use the word 'de' (of) immediately after 'decadencia'.
Don't use it as an action
Mistake: “La ciudad decadencia mucho.”
Correction: La ciudad está en decadencia.
General vs. Specific Deterioration
Related Translations
Learn Spanish with Inklingo
Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.