respaldar
/respalˈdaɾ/
To back up in Spanish is to say respaldar. Wiktionary also lists copiar a la nube.
Meaning: To copy as a security measure (verb)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA |
|---|---|
| respaldar | /respalˈdaɾ/ |
| copiar a la nube | /kopjaɾ a la nube/ (from spelling rules) |
When you want to say you are making a copy of data as a security measure, you can use respaldar. A common way to express the specific action of backing up files to cloud storage services is to say copiar a la nube, which literally means to copy to the cloud.
What does it mean word for word?
The verb respaldar is literally composed of respaldo (back/support) and the infinitive suffix, meaning to provide a back or support to something.
Which one should you use?
Respaldar can mean both to back up digital data and to support or endorse a person or an idea. If you want to refer to the noun for 'a backup', use una copia de seguridad.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico, the phrase dar reversa can be used to convey backing up.
How do you pronounce it?
/respalˈdaɾ/
Did you know?
- The word respaldo refers to the back of a chair, which is why the verb respaldar carries the imagery of providing a physical back or support.
- In a legal context, respaldar is used to describe providing evidence or documentation to prove a claim.
- The word copiar shares an ancient ancestor with the English word 'copy', both stemming from the Latin concept of 'abundance' or 'plenty'.
Examples in context
- Por favor, retroceda un poco para que pueda pasar.Please, back up a bit so I can pass.
- Les pido que se alejen por su seguridad.I ask that you back up for your safety.
- ¡Échate para atrás para que no me tropiece contigo!Back up so I don't trip over you!
- Respalda los archivos antes de apagar la computadora.Back up the files before shutting down the computer.
- Mi coche tiene sensores para dar reversa sin chocar.My car has sensors to back up without crashing.
- Debes respaldar tus archivos importantes.You should back up your important files.
- Voy a respaldar las fotos en el disco duro.I am going to back up the photos to the hard drive.
- Es necesario respaldar la base de datos cada semana.It is necessary to back up the database every week.
Example conversation
Daniel and Sofía are working in an office.
- DanielSofía, ¿ya pudiste respaldar el proyecto?Sofía, were you able to back up the project yet?
- SofíaNo, Daniel, todavía estoy descargando los datos.No, Daniel, I am still downloading the data.
- DanielTen cuidado de no perder la información.Be careful not to lose the information.
- SofíaNo te preocupes, lo haré ahora mismo.Don't worry, I will do it right now.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “back up” translations and entries respaldar, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries a, copiar, la, nube, respaldar, CC BY-SA 4.0.
