Spanish word

empeorar

Pronunciation

IPA/empeoˈɾaɾ/

Meaning

  • verbworsen

Example

Sin tratamiento, la herida empeora.

Without treatment, the wound worsens.

Illustration for empeorar (worsen)

More examples

Si no hablan, la relación puede empeorar.

If they don't talk, the relationship may worsen.

Core concept

A condition becoming worse than before.

Common phrases

  • empeorar la relación

    worsen the relationship

  • empeorar el estado de ánimo

    worsen the mood

Similar words

deteriorar: Gradually deteriorates in physical condition or health.
agravar: Becomes more severe, intensifying a problem or symptom.
desmejorar: Becomes noticeably worse in health or appearance.
decaer: Declines in energy, mood, or overall vitality.

Definition in Spanish

Volverse o hacer que algo sea peor respecto a su estado, calidad o situación anterior.

Word origin

Formed from the prefix en- plus peor (from Latin peior "worse") and the verb-forming suffix -ar, with en- assimilating to em- before p to produce empeorar.

Usage tips

  • The reflexive empeorarse indicates that the subject's own condition gets worse, while nonreflexive empeorar is used when something or someone causes the worsening.

Opposites

Related words

  • empeoradoworsenedadjective

Word lists with this word