Inklingo

How to Say "quitting" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “quitting” is “abandono” — use 'abandono' when referring to the act of giving up on a task, competition, or responsibility, often implying leaving something unfinished or neglected.

English → Spanish

abandono

ah-bahn-DOH-nohaβanˈdono

nounB1general
Use 'abandono' when referring to the act of giving up on a task, competition, or responsibility, often implying leaving something unfinished or neglected.
A single, worn-out teddy bear sitting alone on a wooden bench in an empty park.

Examples

El abandono del proyecto causó decepción en el equipo.

The abandonment of the project caused disappointment in the team.

El abandono de mascotas es un delito en este país.

The abandonment of pets is a crime in this country.

La casa vieja está en un estado de abandono total.

The old house is in a state of total neglect.

Su abandono de la carrera sorprendió a todos los fans.

His quitting the race surprised all the fans.

Using 'de' with Abandono

When you want to say what is being left behind, use 'de' right after 'abandono'. For example: 'abandono de los estudios' (leaving one's studies).

Abandonment vs. Abandon

Mistake: “Using 'el abandonar' when you mean the noun.”

Correction: Use 'el abandono' for the noun 'abandonment'. Use 'abandonar' only when you need the action word (the verb).

dimisión

nounB2formal
Use 'dimisión' specifically for the formal act of resigning from a job, official post, or position.

Examples

Tras la controversia, el ministro presentó su dimisión.

Following the controversy, the minister submitted his resignation.

Abandono vs. Dimisión

Learners often confuse 'abandono' and 'dimisión' by using 'abandono' for formal resignations. Remember, 'dimisión' is exclusively for quitting a job or formal role, while 'abandono' refers to abandoning a task or responsibility more broadly.

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