descanse en paz
formal, Mexico
In Mexico "rest in peace" is descanse en paz or que en paz descanse. With a close friend or relative, people say descansa en paz.
Meaning: wish for the dead (phrase)
Ways to say it
| Mexican | Note |
|---|---|
| descanse en paz | formal, Mexico |
| que en paz descanse | formal |
| descansa en paz | informal |
The formal descanse en paz is used when speaking about someone who died or in a message of condolence. Descansa en paz speaks directly to the person who has passed away, as on a social media post.
How does it change in a sentence?
The change from descanse to descansa is the change from formal usted to informal tú.
When do people say it?
Mexican death notices and gravestones usually carry the initials of this phrase. The Day of the Dead on November 1 and 2 is a time when families remember those who have died.
Did you know?
- In Mexico the phrase is often written as initials Q.E.P.D. on notices and messages.
Examples in context
- Descanse en paz, don Manuel.Rest in peace, Mr. Manuel.
- Mi abuelo, que en paz descanse, era carpintero.My grandfather, may he rest in peace, was a carpenter.
- Descansa en paz, amigo.Rest in peace, friend.
Example conversation
Rosa tells her neighbor Julia that an old friend has passed away in Oaxaca.
- RosaJulia, murió don Manuel ayer.Julia, Mr. Manuel died yesterday.
- JuliaLo siento mucho. Que en paz descanse.I am so sorry. May he rest in peace.
- RosaGracias, el velorio es mañana.Thank you, the wake is tomorrow.
