no molestar
/no molestaɾ/from spelling rules
The Spanish phrase for "do not disturb" is no molestar.
Meaning: do not disturb (phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of no (not) and the infinitive verb molestar (to disturb/to bother).
How does it change in a sentence?
In the context of signs or instructions, the infinitive form molestar is used instead of a conjugated imperative.
How do you pronounce it?
/no molestaɾ/
Did you know?
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, the word molestar can carry a sexual connotation meaning 'to harass' or 'to touch inappropriately'.
- The verb molestar is a cognate of the English word 'molest', but in Spanish it is much more commonly used for minor annoyances like a fly or a loud noise.
- In Spain, a person who is 'molesto' is often just 'annoyed', but in some Latin American countries, it can specifically mean they are 'upset' or 'angry'.
Examples in context
- No molestar.Do not disturb.Tatoeba #1585835 by deniko, translation #785677 by sacredceltic
- Por favor, no molestar. Estoy ocupado en una llamada importante.Please do not disturb. I am busy on an important call.
- Me encuentro en una reunión importante. Favor de no interrumpir hasta que termine.I am in an important meeting. Please do not interrupt until it finishes.
- Estoy descansando, por favor, no me des la lata.I am resting, please don't bother me.
- Estoy ocupado, déjame en paz por un momento.I am busy, leave me alone for a moment.
- Ponga el cartel de no molestar.Put up the do not disturb sign.
- Por favor, no molestar durante la siesta.Please, do not disturb during the nap.
Example conversation
Sofía is working in her home office and Javier enters the room.
- SofíaJavier, ahora no molestar, por favor.Javier, do not disturb right now, please.
- JavierLo siento, ¿estás muy ocupada?I'm sorry, are you very busy?
- SofíaSí, necesito terminar este informe.Yes, I need to finish this report.
- JavierEstá bien, te dejo sola.That's fine, I'll leave you alone.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “do not disturb” translations, 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.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
