Inklingo

How to Say "strain" in Spanish

English → Spanish

esfuerzo

es-FWEHR-soh/esˈfweɾso/

nounA2general
Use 'esfuerzo' when referring to a physical exertion or a significant mental or emotional effort made to achieve something.
A small, determined cartoon character is straining visibly, using all its strength to push a massive gray boulder up a gentle green slope, illustrating intense physical effort.

Examples

Hicimos un gran esfuerzo para terminar el proyecto a tiempo.

We made a great effort to finish the project on time.

Con mucho esfuerzo, logró levantar la caja pesada.

With a lot of exertion, he managed to lift the heavy box.

Su esfuerzo constante en los estudios dio frutos.

Her constant endeavor in her studies paid off.

The 'hacer' connection

In Spanish, we usually 'make' effort, using the verb 'hacer' (to do/make). So, 'I made an effort' is 'Hice un esfuerzo.' This is the most common way to use it.

Confusing Noun and Verb

Mistake: “Yo esfuerzo mucho.”

Correction: Yo hago mucho esfuerzo (I make a lot of effort) or Yo me esfuerzo mucho (I exert myself a lot). Remember 'esfuerzo' is the noun (the thing), not the action itself.

estrés

nounA2general
Use 'estrés' to describe a state of mental or emotional tension and pressure caused by difficult circumstances.

Examples

Tengo mucho estrés por los exámenes finales.

I have a lot of stress because of final exams.

tensión

nounB1general
Use 'tensión' to refer to a feeling of unease or conflict between people or groups, or a physical pulling or stretching, like a muscle strain.

Examples

Sufrió una tensión en los isquiotibiales mientras corría.

He suffered a strain in his hamstrings while running.

carga

/KAR-gah//ˈkaɾ.ɣa/

nounB2general
Use 'carga' to describe a burden or heavy load, especially emotional or mental weight, like a demanding workload.
A small, simple character is hunched over, struggling under the weight of a massive, rough, gray stone block strapped to their shoulders, symbolizing a heavy responsibility or burden.

Examples

La carga de trabajo es insoportable este mes.

The workload (burden) is unbearable this month.

Ella sintió una gran carga de culpa después del accidente.

She felt a great burden of guilt after the accident.

Effort vs. Stress

Learners often confuse 'esfuerzo' (effort) with 'estrés' (stress). Remember that 'esfuerzo' is about the action of trying hard, while 'estrés' is the feeling of being overwhelmed by pressure.

Related Translations

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