Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| retirada | /retiˈɾada/ | feminine |
| repliegue | /reˈpljeɡe/ | masculine |
The word 'retreat' refers to the act of pulling back or withdrawing. Depending on the context, whether you are describing a military movement, a spiritual gathering or a short break from routine, different Spanish words are more appropriate. For the action of retreating, you can use the reflexive verb retirarse or replegarse.
Which one should you use?
While retirada is a general term for a retreat, repliegue is used in technical or military contexts to describe a tactical withdrawal or the regrouping of forces. If you are referring to a short break from routine, the word escapada is more suitable.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some regions of Latin America, the term retiro espiritual may be referred to as cursillo.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
retirada is a feminine noun and is used with the feminine article la. In contrast, repliegue is a masculine noun and is used with the masculine article el.
How do you pronounce it?
/retiˈɾada/
Did you know?
- If you use the verb replegar, you are not just retreating, but specifically folding or collapsing something, like a map or a tent.
- The term retiro is commonly used as a noun to describe 'retirement' from a professional career, treating the end of a job as a permanent retreat.
- In a sporting context, retirarse does not just mean to pull back, but is the standard term for a player 'withdrawing' from a tournament due to injury.
Examples in context
- Una retirada no es una derrota.Retreat is not defeat.This sentence is useful for illustrating how to use retirada in a common expression.Tatoeba #10615842 by Adelpa, translation #10616051 by DJ_Saidez
- Estoy planeando un retiro con mis compañeros de trabajo el próximo mes.I am planning a retreat with my colleagues next month.
- Necesito una escapada de fin de semana para recargar energías.I need a weekend getaway to recharge my energy.
- La retirada fue muy rápida.The retreat was very fast.
- El ejército ordenó una retirada.The army ordered a retreat.
Example conversation
Two people are discussing a historical battle.
- DanielDaniel, ¿cuándo empezó la retirada?Daniel, when did the retreat begin?
- MaríaFue justo antes del amanecer, María.It was just before dawn, María.
- DanielFue una retirada muy peligrosa.It was a very dangerous retreat.
- MaríaSí, pero lograron salvar al ejército.Yes, but they managed to save the army.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “retreat” translations and entries retirada, repliegue, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
