How to Say "they misplace" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “they misplace” is “pierden” — A2 level. This is a very common word in everyday Spanish.
Examples
Mis hijos siempre pierden sus juguetes nuevos.
My children always lose their new toys.
Si no se apuran, pierden el avión.
If they don't hurry up, they will miss the plane. (Used in the present tense to indicate future certainty)
Ellos pierden mucho dinero en apuestas.
They lose a lot of money on bets.
Losing Things vs. Losing Yourself
When someone loses an object, use 'pierden' directly (Ellos pierden las llaves). If they lose themselves (get lost), Spanish uses the reflexive form: 'Se pierden' (They get lost).
Using 'Perder' for 'To Miss' People
Mistake: “Ellos pierden a su abuela. (Meaning: They miss their grandmother.)”
Correction: Ellos extrañan a su abuela. Use 'extrañar' or 'echar de menos' when you feel the absence of a person; use 'perder' only for missing transportation or opportunities.
Related Translations
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