Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA |
|---|---|
| descuide | /desˈkwide/ |
| no se preocupe | /ˌno se pɾeoˈkupe/ |
| pierda cuidado | /pjeɾda kwidado/ (from spelling rules) |
These phrases are used to indicate to the interlocutor not to worry about something.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase pierda cuidado literally translates to "lose care" but is used idiomatically to mean "don't worry".
Which one should you use?
While no se preocupe focuses on the state of worry, descuide is a more concise, formal way to tell someone not to concern themselves with a specific matter. Additionally, adding usted to the end of the phrase, as in no se preocupe usted, serves to emphasize respect.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
For formal settings, you should use descuide or no se preocupe. If you are speaking with friends, family or people younger than you, use the informal no te preocupes.
Is it said differently in some regions?
No te preocupes is commonly used in Spain. In Mexico, no se preocupe is widely understood and used in formal settings.
How does it change in a sentence?
The informal version of the phrase uses the 'tú' form of the verb. In contrast, the default forms in the source pack use the formal 'usted' form. To address more than one person, the verb ending changes to the plural form 'preocupen'.
How do you pronounce it?
/desˈkwide/
Did you know?
- In the Philippines, the use of cuidado in certain contexts is a 'calque', or a direct translation, of the Tagalog word bahala.
Examples in context
- No se preocupe, no muerdo.Don't worry, I won't bite.This sentence uses no se preocupe to reassure someone that you are not a threat.Tatoeba #11713273 by Seael, translation #11713268 by sundown
- No se preocupe. Yo lo hago.Don't worry. I'll do it.This sentence uses no se preocupe to offer help with a task.Tatoeba #2902465 by marcelostockle, translation #502329 by mwgamera
- No se preocupen. Soy doctor.Don't worry. I'm a doctor.This sentence uses no se preocupen to address more than one person.Tatoeba #9685205 by stormy_clau, translation #2275362 by CK
- No te preocupes, llega cuando puedas.Don't worry, arrive whenever you can.
- 18 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lucía apologizes to Javier for being a few minutes late.
- LucíaSiento llegar tarde, Javier.I'm sorry for arriving late, Javier.
- JavierNo se descuide, no pasa nada.Don't worry, it's nothing.
- LucíaGracias por entenderlo.Thank you for understanding.
- JavierDescuide, todo está bien.Don't worry, everything is fine.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “don't worry” translations and entries descuide, no se preocupe, 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 cuidado, no, se, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
