How to Say "detriment" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “detriment” is “perjuicio” — use 'perjuicio' when referring to general harm, loss, or disadvantage, especially to financial interests, health, or well-being. It's the most common and versatile translation for 'detriment'.
perjuicio
per-HWEE-syohperˈxwi.sjo
Examples
El retraso del vuelo causó un gran perjuicio a los viajeros.
The flight delay caused great detriment to the travelers.
El tabaco causa un gran perjuicio a los pulmones.
Tobacco causes great harm to the lungs.
La huelga de transporte supuso un perjuicio económico para la ciudad.
The transport strike resulted in an economic loss for the city.
El juez ordenó el pago por daños y perjuicios.
The judge ordered the payment of damages and losses.
It's a Thing, Not an Action
Perjuicio is a noun (a thing). If you want to describe the action of harming someone, you should use the related verb 'perjudicar'.
Using 'En perjuicio de'
This phrase is used to show who is being hurt by an action. Think of it as 'at the expense of' or 'to the disadvantage of'.
The 'Prejuicio' Trap
Mistake: “Using 'perjuicio' when you mean 'prejudice' or 'bias'.”
Correction: Use 'perjuicio' for harm/damage. Use 'prejuicio' for a preconceived opinion or social bias.
lesión
Examples
La construcción sin permiso fue una lesión a las leyes ambientales.
The construction without a permit was a detriment to environmental laws.
Perjuicio vs. Lesión
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