Inklingo

How to Say "getaway" in Spanish

English → Spanish

escape

/es-KAH-peh//esˈka.pe/

nounA2
Use 'escape' when referring to a planned or actual departure from a place of confinement, like a prison or a difficult situation.
A small simplified character leaping over a low stone wall toward a bright green meadow, symbolizing freedom.

Examples

El plan de escape del prisionero falló en el último momento.

The prisoner's escape plan failed at the last minute.

Necesito un escape de la rutina, aunque sea solo un fin de semana.

I need a break (an escape) from routine, even if it's just for a weekend.

Masculine Noun

Even though it ends in '-e,' remember that 'escape' is always masculine: 'el escape' or 'un escape'.

fuga

FOO-gah/ˈfu.ɣa/

nounA2
Choose 'fuga' for a quick, often sudden departure or flight, especially when evading capture or pursuit.
A small cartoon figure scaling a tall, simple brick wall using a rope ladder, representing an escape from confinement.

Examples

La policía frustró la fuga de los ladrones por el tejado.

The police thwarted the thieves' escape across the roof.

El perro aprovechó la puerta abierta para darse a la fuga.

The dog took advantage of the open door to make its getaway (flee).

Hubo una fuga masiva de presos de la cárcel anoche.

There was a massive breakout of prisoners from the jail last night.

Using 'Darse a la Fuga'

This fixed phrase means 'to run away quickly.' It uses the verb 'dar' (to give) in a reflexive way, showing the action is focused on the subject.

Confusing 'Fuga' and 'Escapada'

Mistake: “Using 'fuga' for a short, planned trip or vacation.”

Correction: Use 'escapada' for a weekend trip or brief vacation. 'Fuga' implies running away from danger or confinement.

retiro

reh-TEE-roh/reˈtiɾo/

nounB2
Use 'retiro' when you mean a short trip taken for rest, relaxation, or a specific purpose like meditation or spiritual practice.
An illustration of a small, solitary wooden cabin nestled deep within a quiet, snowy mountain forest.

Examples

Pasamos el fin de semana en un retiro de meditación.

We spent the weekend at a meditation retreat.

El equipo directivo necesita un retiro para planificar el próximo año.

The management team needs a retreat to plan next year.

Escape vs. Retreat

The most common mistake is using 'escape' or 'fuga' when you actually mean a relaxing vacation. Remember that 'escape' and 'fuga' imply leaving confinement or evading something, while 'retiro' is for rest and rejuvenation.

Related Translations

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