How to Say "to unload" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “to unload” is “descargar” — use this word when referring to the physical act of removing cargo, goods, or weight from a vehicle, container, or location.
Use this word when referring to the physical act of removing cargo, goods, or weight from a vehicle, container, or location.
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Use this word when a company or product is introduced or launched into a new market, territory, or country, implying a strategic entry.
Learn more →dehs-kar-GAHRdeskaɾˈɣaɾ
Examples
Los trabajadores están descargando el camión de mudanza.
The workers are unloading the moving truck.
Ayúdame a descargar las bolsas del coche.
Help me unload the bags from the car.
El barco descargó toda la mercancía en el puerto.
The ship unloaded all the goods at the port.
Physical vs. Digital
The logic is the same as English 'unload'. You are removing 'cargo' (carga), whether it's heavy boxes or digital data.
de-sem-bar-kardesembarˈkaɾ
Examples
La cadena de hoteles planea desembarcar en México el próximo año.
The hotel chain plans to enter the Mexican market next year.
Están desembarcando los suministros médicos en el muelle.
They are unloading the medical supplies on the dock.
Figurative Language
Think of a business 'landing' in a new country like a ship arriving at a new shore. It implies a significant and organized arrival.
Physical vs. Market Entry
The most common mistake is using 'descargar' for market entry. Remember, 'descargar' is for physically removing items. 'Desembarcar' is specifically for a business or product 'landing' in a new place.
Related Translations
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