desapego
/desaˈpeɡo/
The English phrase "detachment" is translated into Spanish as desapego.
desapego is used to describe a state of being unattached to material things or emotions. It is a common term in psychological and spiritual contexts to refer to emotional or psychological detachment.
Meaning: separation (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is formed from the prefix des- (un-) and apego (attachment/clinging), literally meaning "unattachment" or "lack of attachment".
Which one should you use?
While separación is used to describe a physical separation, desapego is the specific term for emotional or psychological detachment.
How do you pronounce it?
/desaˈpeɡo/
Did you know?
- While desapego describes emotional detachment, the verb apegar can also mean to physically glue or stick two objects together. This creates a linguistic link between emotional clinging and physical adhesion.
- In a romantic context, calling someone desapegado might be interpreted as a compliment in some spiritual circles, but as a criticism of being 'cold' in a relationship.
- While desapego is a psychological state, if you want to describe a physical detachment like a part falling off a machine, you would use desprendimiento instead.
Examples in context
- El desapego es necesario para mantener la objetividadDetachment is necessary to maintain objectivity
- El distanciamiento emocional puede ayudar a superar una relación tóxicaEmotional detachment can help overcome a toxic relationship
- En el ámbito académico, es importante tener desapego emocional hacia los resultados de nuestras investigacionesIn the academic field, it is important to have emotional detachment towards the results of our research
- El distanciamiento de emociones negativas puede ser beneficioso para nuestra salud mentalDistance from negative emotions can be beneficial for our mental health
- No me importa lo que piensen los demás, mantengo mi desinterés por las críticasI don't care what others think, I maintain my indifference towards criticism
- El desapego es necesario para la paz mental.Detachment is necessary for peace of mind.
- Siento un cierto desapego hacia mis posesiones.I feel a certain detachment toward my possessions.
- Su desapego de la realidad es preocupante.His detachment from reality is worrying.
Example conversation
Sofía and Alejandro are discussing a new philosophy book.
- SofíaEl libro habla mucho sobre el desapego.The book talks a lot about detachment.
- AlejandroEs un concepto difícil de entender.It is a difficult concept to understand.
- SofíaPero ayuda a vivir con menos estrés.But it helps to live with less stress.
- AlejandroTienes razón, Sofía.You are right, Sofía.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry desapego, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
