How to Say "repayment" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “repayment” is “retorno” — use 'retorno' when referring to the financial gain or outcome received in exchange for an investment or effort.
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retorno
reh-TOR-noreˈtoɾno
nounB1general
Use 'retorno' when referring to the financial gain or outcome received in exchange for an investment or effort.
Examples
El retorno de la inversión fue del diez por ciento.
The return on investment was ten percent.
No espero ningún retorno por mi ayuda.
I don't expect any repayment for my help.
redención
nounC1formal
Use 'redención' specifically when talking about the act of paying off a debt, freeing oneself from an obligation, or redeeming something.
Examples
Pagaron una gran suma por la redención del cautivo.
They paid a large sum for the ransom of the captive.
Retorno vs. Redención
Learners often confuse 'retorno' and 'redención' because both can imply getting something back. Remember that 'retorno' is about the positive outcome of an action (like investment), while 'redención' is about settling a debt or obligation.
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