descargar
/deskaɾˈɡaɾ/
The Spanish verb for 'unload' is descargar.
descargar is used to describe removing cargo from a vehicle or removing ammunition from a weapon. In a digital context, it is also the standard term for downloading a file, such as in the phrase descargar un archivo.
Meaning: remove (cargo) from a vehicle, etc. (verb)
What does it mean word for word?
The verb is composed of the prefix des- (undo or reverse) and cargar (to load).
Which one should you use?
While cargar means to load, use descargar to specifically mean the act of unloading.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico, you may use descargar in both formal and informal contexts. You might also encounter the phrase bajar la carga in Mexico, which is also used in both formal and informal settings.
How does it change in a sentence?
The gerund form used for continuous actions is descargando.
How do you pronounce it?
/deskaɾˈɡaɾ/
Did you know?
- The root of descargar comes from the Latin carrus, which referred to a two-wheeled Celtic war chariot. This same root evolved into the English word 'car'.
- In some contexts, using the verb descargar can also mean to 'discharge' or release a built-up emotion or tension.
- The word descarga as a noun can refer to a physical unloading but also specifically to an electrical discharge, such as a bolt of lightning.
Examples in context
- No quiero descargar el coche porque ese es el trabajo de otro.I won't unload the car because that's somebody else's job.This sentence illustrates the use of descargar regarding a vehicle.Tatoeba #2112227 by teskmon, translation #1736355 by Dejo
- Hay que descargar la mercancía del camión.We need to unload the merchandise from the truck.
- El equipo de carga y descarga se encargará de descargar la carga en el almacén.The loading and unloading team will be responsible for unloading the cargo at the warehouse.
- Hay que bajar las cajas cuidadosamente del estante.We need to unload the boxes carefully from the shelf.
- Baja las bolsas del coche antes de irte.Unload the bags from the car before you leave.
- Descarga las compras del coche, por favor.Unload the groceries from the car, please.
- Vacía el contenido del camión en la bodega.Unload the contents of the truck into the warehouse.
- Necesito descargar las cajas del camión.I need to unload the boxes from the truck.
- Ellos van a descargar el barco en el puerto.They are going to unload the ship at the port.
Example conversation
Javier and María are working at a warehouse.
- JavierMaría, ¿puedes ayudarme a descargar el camión?María, can you help me unload the truck?
- MaríaSí, Javier, terminemos esto rápido.Yes, Javier, let's finish this quickly.
- JavierGracias, hay mucha mercancía para descargar.Thanks, there is a lot of merchandise to unload.
- MaríaNo te preocupes, yo te ayudo.Don't worry, I will help you.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry descargar, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries descargar, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
