demolición
/demoliˈθjon/feminine
The English word demolition is translated into Spanish as demolición or derribo.
Meaning: the action of demolishing or destroying (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| demolición | /demoliˈθjon/ /demoliˈsjon/ |
feminine |
| derribo | /deˈribo/ | masculine |
Both terms refer to the action of destroying or knocking down a structure. Demolición is the noun form of the verb demoler, while derribo is the noun form of the verb derribar.
Which one should you use?
While both words mean demolition, derribo is a more common and everyday term used when specifically referring to the act of knocking down a structure or building. In English, this nuance is often expressed as the difference between 'demolition' and 'tearing down'.
How does it change in a sentence?
demolición is a feminine noun and must be preceded by feminine articles such as la or una. In contrast, derribo is a masculine noun and must be preceded by masculine articles such as el or un.
How do you pronounce it?
/demoliˈθjon/
Did you know?
- The term derribo is also used in hunting to refer to the specific act of bringing down a bird or animal.
- In Spanish, the verb derribar can be used figuratively to mean 'overthrowing' a government or a political regime.
- The word derribo is used in forestry to describe the felling of trees, which is a specific meaning not shared by demolición.
Examples in context
- La demolición del edificio será mañana.The demolition of the building will be tomorrow.
- Han ordenado la demolición de la vieja fábrica.They have ordered the demolition of the old factory.
- La demolición de la pared fue muy rápida.The demolition of the wall was very fast.
Example conversation
Alejandro and Elena are discussing a construction project in their neighborhood.
- Alejandro¿Sabes cuándo será la demolición del muro?Do you know when the demolition of the wall will be?
- ElenaAlejandro, la demolición está programada para el lunes.Alejandro, the demolition is scheduled for Monday.
- AlejandroEspero que la demolición no haga mucho ruido.I hope the demolition doesn't make much noise.
- ElenaSeguro que sí, pero será un proceso controlado.Surely it will, but it will be a controlled process.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “demolition” translations and entries demolición, derribo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
