Lástima (en. Pity)

/ˈlastima/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishSpanish

noun

Definition: Feeling of sadness experienced due to another's misfortune.

Example Sentence: I felt great pity upon seeing the injured dog.

Sentí una gran lástima al ver al perro herido.

Definition: Cause of sadness or pity.

Example Sentence: It's a pity you can't come to the party.

Es una lástima que no puedas venir a la fiesta.

Definition: In some contexts, loss or lack of something valued.

Example Sentence: It’s a pity that he didn't win the contest.

Es una lástima que no haya ganado el concurso.

Etymology/Origin: From the Latin 'lactima', which means 'sorrow' or 'affliction'.

Common Phrase: It’s a pity

Meaning: Expression used to express disappointment or sadness about a situation.

Es una lástima

Common Phrase: To feel pity

Meaning: Indicates that someone is deserving of compassion or pity.

Dar lástima

Common Phrase: Other people's pity

Meaning: Feeling of sorrow experienced towards the misfortune of others.

Lástima ajena

Related Word: compassion

Description: Feeling of sadness and sorrow in response to another’s suffering.

compasión

Related Word: misfortune

Description: Situation of misfortune or bad luck.

desgracia

Related Word: sorrow

Description: Feeling of sadness or sorrow.

pena

Slang Meaning: Pity for not being able to do something.

Slang Example: I feel pity for not being able to go out with you all today.

Me da lástima no poder salir con ustedes hoy.

Slang Meaning: I feel pity for someone’s situation.

Slang Example: I feel pity for his family; they have been through a lot.

Siento lástima por su familia; han pasado por mucho.