fracasé
/fɾakase/from spelling rules
fracasé is the Spanish way to say "I failed".
fracasé is a statement used to say that one was not successful in achieving a goal or a desired outcome.
Which one should you use?
While fracasé refers to a general failure in an endeavor, the word reprobé is the specific term used when talking about failing an exam or a school subject.
How does it change in a sentence?
If you want to describe a continuous or habitual state of failing in the past, use the imperfect form fracasaba (I was failing / I used to fail).
How do you pronounce it?
/fɾakase/
Did you know?
- In some Latin American countries, failing a school subject is not just reprobé but can be described as tronar the exam. This verb literally means 'to thunder'.
- The root of fracasé is related to the word fracaso, which in its earliest usages referred to a loud crash or a breaking sound. It evolved to mean the 'crash' of a plan or ambition.
- While fracasé describes a general failure, Spanish speakers often use the phrase meter la pata to say they failed by making an embarrassing mistake. It literally means 'to put your foot in it'.
Examples in context
- Fracasé en alcanzar mi cuota hoy.I failed to meet my quota today.This sentence shows how to use fracasé regarding a specific goal like a quota.Tatoeba #9051888 by rafaeldejesus8199, translation #9051891 by rafaeldejesus8199
- Cuando fracasé, él dijo "bien te lo mereces".When I failed, he said, "It serves you right."This sentence shows a reaction to the speaker's use of fracasé.Tatoeba #1645928 by marcelostockle, translation #246803 by sundown
- Fracasé.I failed.This sentence provides a simple way to say fracasé.Tatoeba #4986965 by cueyayotl, translation #2484985 by AlanF_US
- Me fue mal en el examenI did poorly on the exam
- He fallado en mi intento de iniciar mi propio negocioI failed in my attempt to start my own business
- 2 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lucía is telling Alejandro about her recent business presentation.
- LucíaLo siento, Alejandro, pero fracasé en la presentación.I am sorry, Alejandro, but I failed in the presentation.
- AlejandroNo te preocupes, Lucía, lo volverás a intentar.Don't worry, Lucía, you will try again.
- LucíaEs difícil aceptarlo.It is hard to accept it.
- AlejandroEres muy capaz y pronto lo lograrás.You are very capable and you will achieve it soon.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
