Inklingo

How to Say "reimbursement" in Spanish

English → Spanish

compensación

nounB1general
Use 'compensación' when you are receiving money back specifically for an expense you incurred, like travel costs or fees.

Examples

Recibí una compensación por el vuelo cancelado.

I received compensation for the canceled flight.

indemnización

nounB2general
Opt for 'indemnización' when the repayment is for damages, losses, or a significant inconvenience, often implying a more formal or legal context.

Examples

La aerolínea me dio una indemnización por el retraso del vuelo.

The airline gave me compensation for the flight delay.

pago

PAH-goˈpa.ɣo

nounA1general
While 'pago' means 'payment', it can sometimes refer to money paid back in a very general sense, though it's less specific for 'reimbursement' than the other options.
A close-up view of two hands performing a transaction: one hand is placing a stack of paper currency and a few coins into the open palm of the second hand.

Examples

El pago de la renta es el primer día del mes.

The rent payment is on the first day of the month.

Ella recibió el pago por su trabajo inmediatamente.

She received the payment for her work immediately.

Aceptamos el pago con tarjeta de crédito o en efectivo.

We accept payment by credit card or in cash.

Always Masculine

Even though money (la moneda) is feminine, 'pago' is a masculine noun, so use 'el pago' or 'un pago'.

Confusing Noun and Verb

Mistake: “Using 'pago' as the action when you mean the verb 'pagar' (to pay).”

Correction: Remember 'pago' is the thing (the payment), while 'pagar' is the action (to pay).

Choosing Between Compensación and Indemnización

Learners often confuse 'compensación' and 'indemnización'. Remember that 'compensación' is typically for direct expenses you paid, while 'indemnización' is usually for losses or damages suffered, which might be a larger sum or legally determined.

Related Translations

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