Spanish Conversation · Level 61
76 words
Spanish word
arruinar
Pronunciation
IPA/arwiˈnaɾ/
Meaning
- verbspoil
Example
No quiero arruinar la sorpresa.
I don't want to spoil the surprise.
More examples
Un mal comentario puede arruinar la fiesta.
A bad comment can ruin the party.
Core concept
A shuttered business with unpaid bills on the counter and empty shelves.
Common phrases
arruinar la sorpresa
ruin the surprise
arruinar la fiesta
ruin the party
arruinar los planes
ruin the plans
arruinar la relación
ruin the relationship
arruinar el día
ruin the day
Similar words
estropear: Makes an item deteriorated or broken so it cannot be used as intended.
dañar: Causes defects or malfunctions that impair an object's parts or operation.
echar a perder: Spoils quality or effectiveness of food, goods, or plans so they no longer work.
Definition in Spanish
Echar a perder por completo algo o causar su ruina, de modo que deje de cumplir su función; también usar para provocar la ruina económica de una persona o proyecto.
Word origin
The verb comes from Latin ruīna 'collapse', with Spanish prefix a- and the verb ending -ar giving the sense of causing collapse or utterly ruining.
Usage tips
- Arruinar implies total destruction or financial ruin, arruinarse means becoming ruined or bankrupt, and estropear covers minor or reversible damage such as a scratched shirt or a ruined meal.