How to Say "to repay" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “to repay” is “devolver” — use 'devolver' when you are returning something that was borrowed or owed, such as money, an item, or even a favor in a transactional sense..
devolver
deh-bohl-VEHR/de.βolˈβeɾ/
Examples
Tengo que devolverle el libro a mi amigo mañana.
I have to return the book to my friend tomorrow.
El banco nos devolvió el dinero de la comisión.
The bank refunded us the money for the commission.
Nunca podré devolverte el favor que me hiciste.
I will never be able to repay the favor you did for me.
Ella me devolvió la mirada con una sonrisa.
She returned my gaze with a smile (She smiled back at me).
Using Reflexive Pronouns
When used to mean 'to pay back' or 'to return something to oneself' (e.g., regaining energy), you might see it used as devolverse, though this is less common than the transitive use.
Using 'Pagar Atrás'
Mistake: “Translating 'to pay back' literally as *pagar atrás*.”
Correction: Use 'devolver el dinero' or 'reembolsar' for financial returns.
recompensar
/reh-kom-pehn-SAHR//rekompenˈsaɾ/
Examples
El jefe decidió recompensar a sus empleados por el arduo trabajo.
The boss decided to reward his employees for the hard work.
La empresa quiere recompensar tu esfuerzo con un bono.
The company wants to reward your effort with a bonus.
Algún día, la vida te recompensará por tu bondad.
Someday, life will reward you for your kindness.
No sé cómo recompensarte por todo lo que has hecho.
I don't know how to repay you for everything you've done.
The Personal 'a'
When you are rewarding a specific person, you must use the word 'a' before their name or the word for the person. For example: 'Recompenso a mi hijo' (I reward my son).
Using 'por' for the Reason
To explain WHY someone is being rewarded, use the word 'por'. For example: 'Lo recompensó por su honestidad' (He rewarded him for his honesty).
Using 'para' instead of 'por'
Mistake: “Te recompenso para tu ayuda.”
Correction: Te recompenso por tu ayuda. Use 'por' to indicate the cause or reason behind the reward.
Devolver vs. Recompensar
Related Translations
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