Inklingo

How to Say "step down" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “step down” is “bajar” — use 'bajar' when 'step down' refers to physically moving from a higher place to a lower place, like descending from a bus or stairs..

English → Spanish

bajar

verbA1general
Use 'bajar' when 'step down' refers to physically moving from a higher place to a lower place, like descending from a bus or stairs.

Examples

Por favor, bajen con cuidado del tren.

Please step down carefully from the train.

renunciar

reh-noon-see-AR/renunˈsjaɾ/

verbB1formal
Use 'renunciar' when 'step down' means to officially give up a job or position of authority, similar to 'resign'.
A person in professional attire dropping a large, ceremonial key into a return box near an office door, symbolizing resignation from a position.

Examples

El CEO tuvo que renunciar después del escándalo.

The CEO had to step down after the scandal.

Ella renunció a su trabajo para viajar por el mundo.

She resigned from her job to travel the world.

Si no estás feliz, debes renunciar a ese puesto.

If you are not happy, you should quit that post.

El director ha decidido renunciar a la presidencia.

The director has decided to step down from the presidency.

The 'A' Connection

When you specify what you are quitting, 'renunciar' almost always needs the little word 'a' (to/from) right before the thing you are giving up: 'Renunciar al trabajo' (Quit the job).

Forgetting the Preposition

Mistake: “Voy a renunciar el trabajo.”

Correction: Voy a renunciar *al* trabajo. (Remember 'al' is 'a' + 'el'.)

Physical vs. Formal Action

The most common mistake is using 'bajar' when you mean to resign from a position. Remember, 'bajar' is for physical descent, while 'renunciar' is for leaving a formal role or job.

Related Translations

Learn Spanish with Inklingo

Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.