Inklingo

How to Say "losses" in Spanish

English → Spanish

pérdidas

nounB1general
Use 'pérdidas' for general financial or material setbacks, such as a company's financial reporting, or for family deaths.

Examples

La empresa reportó grandes pérdidas este trimestre.

The company reported big losses this quarter.

bajas

/BAH-has//ˈbaxas/

nounB2general
Use 'bajas' when referring to a reduction in personnel, casualties in a conflict or disaster, or a drop in stock value.
Several abandoned military helmets and boots scattered on a barren ground, symbolizing casualties.

Examples

El informe confirmó que hubo muchas bajas después del terremoto.

The report confirmed there were many casualties after the earthquake.

Tenemos que reducir las bajas escolares este año.

We have to reduce the school dropouts this year.

La empresa tiene un alto índice de bajas laborales por estrés.

The company has a high rate of sick leave due to stress.

Always Plural and Feminine

When used to mean 'casualties' or 'losses,' this word is always plural and feminine, so you must use 'las bajas' or 'muchas bajas'.

Confusing 'Baja' and 'Bajas'

Mistake: “Using 'una baja' when referring to multiple losses.”

Correction: Use 'bajas' (plural) for multiple casualties. 'Una baja' (singular) usually means a single discharge or cancellation.

daños

nounC1formal
Use 'daños' specifically for financial, economic, or physical harm, especially when discussing legal claims or compensation.

Examples

La empresa fue demandada por daños y perjuicios.

The company was sued for damages and losses.

General vs. Specific Loss

Learners often overuse 'pérdidas' when a more specific term like 'bajas' (for people/stock) or 'daños' (for harm/legal claims) is more appropriate. Always consider if the loss refers to people, stock, or actual harm before defaulting to 'pérdidas'.

Related Translations

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