Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| descanso | /desˈkanso/ | masculine |
| reposo | /reˈposo/ | masculine |
| holganza | /olˈɡanθa/ /olˈɡansa/ |
feminine |
The term for rest can be expressed in several ways depending on the context. Descanso is the most common way to refer to a short break from work or an activity. When you want to use a verb to mean 'to rest', you can use descansar or the more formal verb reposar, which implies relaxation or tranquility. If you are referring to the act of taking a nap, the colloquial expression echar una siesta is used.
Which one should you use?
The choice of word depends on the type of rest being described. Descanso refers to a break or recreation. In contrast, reposo is used for a state of physical inactivity, typically for medical reasons such as bed rest. If you want to describe leisure or a state of idleness, the literary term holganza is more appropriate. While descanso is a noun, the related verb reposar means to lie, lean or be supported.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Descanso is the common, standard term. Reposar is a formal verb. Holganza is a literary term. For informal situations, you might use the colloquialism echar una siesta to mean taking a nap.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico, the phrase echar la flojera is commonly used when referring to taking a break or resting.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
Descanso is a masculine noun, and its plural form is descansos. The related verb is descansar.
How do you pronounce it?
/desˈkanso/
Did you know?
- The word descanso is used to describe the flat landing between two flights of stairs.
- While descanso means 'rest' for people, Spanish uses the word reposo to describe the process of letting meat or cake sit after cooking to reach the ideal texture.
- The word holganza comes from the verb holgar, which can mean both to be idle and to be loose or spacious in terms of fit.
Examples in context
- Tom necesita un descanso.Tom needs a rest.This sentence shows how to express that someone needs a rest using descanso.Tatoeba #3839258 by hayastan, translation #2648674 by CK
- Deberías darte un descanso.You should get some rest.This sentence provides an example of suggesting that someone should get some rest using descanso.Tatoeba #1666876 by marcelostockle, translation #1656246 by Spamster
- Me puedo tomar un descanso.I can take a rest.This sentence illustrates how to say one can take a rest using descanso.Tatoeba #3113407 by marcelostockle, translation #2491831 by AlanF_US
- Antes de continuar, le recomendamos tomar un descansoBefore continuing, we recommend you take a break.
- Estoy cansado, voy a descansar un ratoI'm tired, I'm going to rest for a while.
- Me siento agotado, voy a echarme una siestaI feel exhausted, I'm going to take a nap.
- Vamos a la playa a relajarnosLet's go to the beach to relax.
- No quiero hacer nada hoy, solo quiero echar la flojeraI don't want to do anything today, I just want to laze around.
- 49 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
María and Daniel are taking a break during a long hike.
- MaríaEste descanso es muy necesario.This rest is very necessary.
- DanielSí, mis piernas están muy cansadas.Yes, my legs are very tired.
- MaríaDisfruta el descanso, Daniel.Enjoy the rest, Daniel.
- DanielGracias, María. Ya me siento mejor.Thanks, María. I feel better now.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “rest” translations and entries descanso, reposo, holganza, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
