Inklingo

How to Say "loss" in Spanish

English → Spanish

pérdida

per-DEE-dah/peɾˈðiða/

nounB1general
Use 'pérdida' for financial or military losses, such as a company's deficit or casualties in war.
A ceramic piggy bank shattered on the ground next to a small pile of spilled coins, symbolizing financial damage or loss.

Examples

La compañía reportó una gran pérdida este trimestre.

The company reported a great loss this quarter.

Una sola pérdida de tiempo puede arruinar el proyecto.

A single loss (waste) of time can ruin the project.

La pérdida de vidas fue lamentable en aquel desastre.

The loss of life was regrettable in that disaster.

Using the Article

When used as a noun, 'pérdida' (with an accent) often uses the definite article 'la' (la pérdida) and usually refers to an abstract concept of loss or a measurable amount lost.

daño

nounA2general
Use 'daño' to refer to physical or abstract harm, damage, or injury, often caused by an event or action.

Examples

La tormenta causó mucho daño a los cultivos.

The storm caused a lot of damage to the crops.

derrota

/deh-RROH-tah//deˈro.ta/

nounA2general
Use 'derrota' specifically for the outcome of a competition or conflict where one side is beaten or defeated.
A sad cartoon rabbit sits slumped on the ground, holding a broken trophy, symbolizing defeat.

Examples

La derrota en la final fue muy dolorosa para los aficionados.

The defeat in the final was very painful for the fans.

El general aceptó la derrota con dignidad.

The general accepted the loss with dignity.

Después de la derrota, el equipo tuvo que reorganizarse.

After the defeat, the team had to reorganize.

Gender Check

Remember that 'derrota' is always feminine, so you must use 'la derrota' or 'una derrota'.

Pérdida vs. Daño

Learners often confuse 'pérdida' and 'daño.' Remember that 'pérdida' typically relates to quantifiable losses like money or military strength, while 'daño' refers more to general harm or damage.

Related Translations

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