disculpado
/diskulpado/from spelling rules
The English word excused is translated into Spanish as disculpado.
The term disculpado can mean that someone has been forgiven for a mistake. It is also used in formal contexts to indicate that a person has been granted permission to be absent from a duty or an obligation.
Which one should you use?
While disculpado refers to the state of being excused or forgiven, the reflexive verb disculparse is used when a person is actively performing the act of apologizing or excusing themselves.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form of the adjective must agree with the subject or noun it describes. Use disculpado for masculine singular subjects, disculpada for feminine singular subjects, disculpados for masculine plural subjects and disculpadas for feminine plural subjects.
How do you pronounce it?
/diskulpado/
Did you know?
- While disculpado means 'excused', the word culpa from which it is derived shares a root with the English word 'culprit'.
- In many Spanish speaking cultures, saying disculpe is used as a polite way to physically push past someone in a crowd, rather than just asking for forgiveness.
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, instead of saying one is 'excused' from a social event, it is more common to say one 'tiene un compromiso' (has a commitment) to avoid sounding blunt.
Examples in context
- Con permiso, necesito salir un momento.Excuse me, I need to leave for a moment.
- Oye, con permisito, ¿puedo salir un momento?Hey, excuse me, can I go out for a moment?
- Disculpa, tengo que marcharme temprano hoy.Excuse me, I have to leave early today.
- El estudiante fue disculpado por su falta.The student was excused for his absence.
Example conversation
María and Javier are talking about a missed meeting at work.
- MaríaJavier, ¿fuiste disculpado por no venir ayer?Javier, were you excused for not coming yesterday?
- JavierSí, el jefe aceptó mi justificante médico.Yes, the boss accepted my medical excuse.
- MaríaQué bueno que ya estás disculpado.It's good that you are already excused.
- JavierGracias, María, me siento más tranquilo ahora.Thanks, María, I feel more relieved now.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
