limbo
/ˈlimbo/masculine
The English word "limbo" translates to limbo in Spanish.
The word limbo refers to an in-between place, condition or state of neglect and oblivion. This includes the theological concept of a state where unbaptized souls are believed to remain. To say that something is "in limbo", use the prepositional phrase en el limbo.
Meaning: in-between place, or condition or state, of neglect or oblivion (noun)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, the colloquial expression en el aire is used to convey the meaning of being in an uncertain state, similar to the English "in the air". Another way to describe a state of limbo where neither side takes control is the expression en tierra de nadie, which translates to "in no man's land".
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun limbo is masculine and is used with the definite article el, forming the phrase el limbo.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈlimbo/
Did you know?
- In a medical context, Spanish uses the word limbo to describe the 'limbus', which is the specific border of the cornea in the eye.
- In certain Spanish dialects, saying estoy en el limbo is a slang way to describe being completely zoned out or extremely confused during a conversation.
- The word limbo in Spanish can be used to describe the physical edge or border of a garment or piece of cloth.
Examples in context
- Sigue en el limbo.It's still in limbo.This sentence is useful for showing how to say something is still in a state of limbo using limbo.Tatoeba #627191 by darinmex, translation #526953 by CM
- limbo jurídicoLegal limboThis phrase shows how to use limbo to describe a legal limbo.
- El concepto del limbo es debatido en la teología católica.The concept of limbo is debated in Catholic theology.
- Después de la entrevista, quedé en un limbo esperando la respuesta.After the interview, I was left in limbo waiting for the response.
- El proyecto quedó en el limbo tras la crisis.The project was left in limbo after the crisis.
Example conversation
Two friends discuss a delayed project.
- MaríaTodavía no han respondido al correo.They still haven't replied to the email.
- AlejandroEntonces el proyecto sigue en el limbo.Then the project is still in limbo.
- MaríaSí, no sabemos qué pasará.Yes, we don't know what will happen.
- AlejandroEs frustrante esperar así, María.It is frustrating to wait like this, María.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “limbo” translations and entries limbo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR, Wiktionary CC BY-SA 4.0.
