noun

la pena

pity · shame · sadness

Es un sentimiento de tristeza o dolor por algo que ha pasado o por una situación difícil.

The word "pena" in Spanish translates to penalty or sorrow in English, depending on the context. It can refer to:

  1. Penalty: A punishment imposed for a wrongdoing or crime, such as imprisonment or fines.
  2. Sorrow: A feeling of deep sadness or grief.

In legal contexts, pena refers specifically to the punishment given by the justice system. In emotional contexts, it describes the experience of pain or grief associated with loss or disappointment.

Make “pena” part of your vocabulary.

Build your Spanish vocabulary with flashcards, audio and spaced repetition.

Examples

Es una pena que no puedas venir a la fiesta.noun

It is a pity that you cannot come to the party.

Es una pena que te hayas perdido el evento.noun

It's a shame you missed the event.

Siempre me da pena ver animales abandonados en la calle.noun

It always makes me sad to see abandoned animals on the street.

Es una pena que no puedas venir.noun

It's a shame that you can't come.

Me da pena el viejo árbol.noun

I feel pity for the old tree.

Qué pena que no vengas.noun

What a pity that you are not coming.

Keep exploring Spanish

Learn words from the content you love.

Add words from websites, books and videos, then remember them with spaced repetition (SRS).