parálisis
/paˈɾalisis/
The Spanish word for paralysis is parálisis.
The term refers to the loss of muscle control.
Meaning: loss of muscle control (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
parálisis is a feminine noun, so it must be preceded by feminine articles like la or una.
How do you pronounce it?
/paˈɾalisis/
Did you know?
- Spanish speakers often use the term parálisis del análisis to describe the psychological state of overthinking a decision to the point of inaction.
- In certain Spanish-speaking contexts, particularly in political or social discussions, a 'parálisis legislativa' refers to a state where a government is unable to pass any laws, much like a body unable to move.
- While the word parálisis is used for medical conditions, the verb paralizar is frequently used metaphorically in Spanish to describe a person being 'frozen' by an emotion like fear or shock.
Examples in context
- Ha habido varios casos de parálisis infantil.There have been several cases of infantile paralysis.This example shows how to use parálisis when discussing cases of infantile paralysis.Tatoeba #2259478 by cueyayotl, translation #2259477 by _undertoad
- La enfermedad lo paraliza completamente.The illness paralyzes him completely.
- Me quedé paralizado de miedo.I became paralyzed with fear.
- La parálisis afectó a su pierna derecha.The paralysis affected his right leg.
- Sintió una parálisis repentina en los brazos.He felt a sudden paralysis in his arms.
Example conversation
A doctor is explaining a medical condition to a patient.
- DanielEl paciente tiene una parálisis parcial.The patient has a partial paralysis.
- Sofía¿Es una parálisis permanente, doctor?Is it a permanent paralysis, doctor?
- DanielNo estoy seguro todavía, Sofía.I am not sure yet, Sofía.
- SofíaEntiendo, espero que mejore pronto.I understand, I hope he improves soon.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “paralysis” translations and entries parálisis, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
