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A1 noun #1,500 am häufigsten 13 Min. Lesezeit

dolor

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At the A1 level, 'dolor' is introduced as a basic and essential vocabulary word primarily related to health and the human body. Beginners learn this word to express simple physical discomfort, which is a critical survival skill when traveling or living in a Spanish-speaking environment. At this stage, the focus is on highly practical, everyday phrases. You learn to combine 'dolor' with the preposition 'de' and basic body parts. For example, 'dolor de cabeza' (headache), 'dolor de estómago' (stomachache), and 'dolor de muelas' (toothache) are among the first phrases memorized. The grammar surrounding 'dolor' at this level is kept very simple. Students are taught to use the verb 'tener' (to have) to state their condition: 'Tengo dolor de cabeza' (I have a headache). This avoids the more complex grammar of the verb 'doler' (to hurt), which functions like 'gustar' and requires indirect object pronouns (e.g., 'me duele'). By sticking to 'tener dolor', A1 learners can communicate effectively without getting bogged down in advanced grammar. Additionally, 'dolor' is taught as a masculine noun ('el dolor', 'un dolor'), and learners practice using basic adjectives like 'mucho' (a lot of) to describe intensity: 'Tengo mucho dolor' (I have a lot of pain). Understanding 'dolor' at the A1 level is entirely functional, aimed at ensuring the learner can seek help at a pharmacy or explain a basic ailment to a host family or teacher. It is a foundational building block for the broader topic of health and wellness in Spanish.

As learners progress to the A2 level, their understanding and usage of 'dolor' expand beyond simple, localized physical complaints. While they continue to use 'dolor de [body part]', they begin to incorporate more descriptive adjectives to explain the nature of the pain. Vocabulary such as 'fuerte' (strong), 'leve' (mild), and 'constante' (constant) are introduced. For example, an A2 student can say, 'Tengo un dolor fuerte en la espalda' (I have a strong pain in my back). At this level, the distinction between the noun 'dolor' and the verb 'doler' becomes a major focus. Learners practice using 'doler' with indirect object pronouns ('me duele la cabeza', 'le duele el pie'), comparing it to the 'tener dolor' structure they learned in A1. Furthermore, A2 introduces the emotional dimension of 'dolor'. Learners start using the word to express sadness or grief in simple contexts, such as 'Siento mucho dolor por la muerte de su perro' (I feel a lot of pain for the death of his dog). They also learn basic remedies and related vocabulary, such as 'pastillas para el dolor' (pain pills) and the verb 'aliviar' (to relieve). The context widens from basic survival to more conversational exchanges about well-being, allowing learners to ask others about their health: '¿Tienes dolor?' (Do you have pain?). This level bridges the gap between purely functional medical Spanish and the ability to express empathy and describe personal states more accurately.

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At the B1 level, the usage of 'dolor' becomes significantly more nuanced and integrated into complex sentence structures. Learners are now expected to discuss health issues in detail, perhaps narrating the history of an ailment to a doctor. They use 'dolor' with a wider variety of verbs, such as 'sufrir' (to suffer), 'causar' (to cause), and 'soportar' (to bear/endure). For example, 'He sufrido de dolor crónico durante meses' (I have suffered from chronic pain for months). The vocabulary surrounding 'dolor' expands to include medical terminology like 'dolor agudo' (sharp pain), 'dolor punzante' (throbbing pain), and 'síntomas' (symptoms). Emotionally, B1 learners use 'dolor' to discuss abstract concepts like heartbreak, disappointment, and psychological suffering in more sophisticated ways. They might read short stories or articles where 'dolor' is a central theme, understanding it in the context of human relationships and societal issues. Idiomatic expressions also come into play. A key idiom learned at this stage is 'ser un dolor de cabeza' (to be a headache), used metaphorically to describe a frustrating person or situation: 'Este proyecto es un dolor de cabeza' (This project is a headache). The ability to use 'dolor' metaphorically marks a significant step toward fluency. Learners also practice expressing sympathy more naturally, using phrases like 'Comparto tu dolor' (I share your pain). By B1, 'dolor' is no longer just a word for a doctor's visit; it is a versatile tool for expressing a wide range of human experiences.

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Reaching the B2 level, learners handle the word 'dolor' with a high degree of naturalness and precision, characteristic of upper-intermediate proficiency. At this stage, the focus shifts to abstract, societal, and literary uses of the word. In physical contexts, B2 students can read and understand detailed medical literature, patient information leaflets, and health articles that discuss pain management ('manejo del dolor'), side effects, and complex conditions. They can articulate the exact progression and sensation of pain using advanced vocabulary and varied sentence structures. Emotionally and metaphorically, 'dolor' is used to discuss broader issues. Learners might debate topics like the 'dolor' caused by economic crises, social injustice, or war. They can express complex emotional states, differentiating 'dolor' from synonyms like 'angustia' (anguish), 'sufrimiento' (suffering), and 'aflicción' (affliction). In writing, B2 students use 'dolor' in essays and opinion pieces, employing rhetorical devices. They understand the cultural weight of the word in Hispanic societies, recognizing its presence in art, music (like flamenco or tango), and historical narratives. They also master complex grammatical structures involving 'dolor', such as using it with the subjunctive mood to express emotion: 'Me da mucha pena que sientas tanto dolor' (It makes me very sad that you feel so much pain). The B2 learner uses 'dolor' not just to communicate facts, but to persuade, empathize, and analyze complex situations.

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At the C1 level, the learner's command of 'dolor' approaches that of an educated native speaker. The word is utilized effortlessly across all registers, from highly technical medical jargon to poetic and philosophical discourse. In a medical or scientific context, a C1 user can discuss the neurology of pain, the psychological impacts of 'dolor crónico', and the ethics of pain medication, using precise terminology. They are comfortable with derivative words and related concepts, such as 'indoloro' (painless), 'doloroso' (painful), and 'doliente' (mourner/sufferer). In literature and the humanities, C1 learners analyze texts where 'dolor' is a central motif. They can appreciate the nuances of 'dolor' in the works of Spanish and Latin American authors, understanding how it represents existential dread, historical trauma, or romantic agony. They can articulate these concepts in academic essays or sophisticated debates. The metaphorical use of 'dolor' is fully integrated into their active vocabulary. They understand subtle idiomatic variations and regional expressions involving pain. Furthermore, they can manipulate the word for rhetorical effect, using it to evoke strong emotions in their audience. At this level, the challenge is no longer grammatical or basic semantic understanding, but rather the stylistic and culturally appropriate application of the word in highly complex, abstract, or professional environments.

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At the C2 level, mastery of 'dolor' is absolute, characterized by an intuitive grasp of its deepest cultural, literary, and linguistic nuances. A C2 speaker understands 'dolor' not just as a vocabulary item, but as a profound cultural concept within the Hispanosphere. They can deconstruct its usage in classical literature, poetry, and philosophy, recognizing subtle shifts in meaning depending on the historical period or the author's stylistic intent. They are familiar with archaic or highly specialized uses of the word and its derivatives. In spoken and written production, a C2 user employs 'dolor' with exceptional elegance and precision. They can seamlessly transition from discussing the physiological mechanisms of nociception (the sensory nervous system's response to certain harmful or potentially harmful stimuli) to delivering a poignant eulogy that touches on the collective 'dolor' of a community. They invent their own metaphors involving 'dolor', playing with the language creatively. They are acutely aware of the sociolinguistic aspects of the word, knowing exactly how its use might vary across different social classes, regions, or generations. At this pinnacle of language proficiency, 'dolor' is a brush with which the speaker paints complex pictures of the human condition, demonstrating a flawless integration of vocabulary, grammar, culture, and emotion.

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dolor in 30 Sekunden

Noun meaning 'pain' or 'ache'.
Used for physical and emotional suffering.
Always masculine: 'el dolor'.
Often paired with 'tener' or 'sentir'.

The Spanish word 'dolor' is a fundamental noun that translates primarily to 'pain' in English, encompassing both physical suffering and emotional distress. Understanding 'dolor' is crucial for any Spanish learner, as it is one of the most common words used to express discomfort, illness, injury, or emotional heartache. In its most literal sense, 'dolor' refers to the physical sensation of discomfort caused by illness or injury. When you visit a doctor in a Spanish-speaking country, expressing where you feel 'dolor' is the first step in receiving care.

Physical Pain: This refers to bodily sensations, such as a headache (dolor de cabeza) or a stomachache (dolor de estómago).

Tengo un fuerte dolor en la espalda después de levantar esa caja pesada.

Beyond the physical realm, 'dolor' extends deeply into the emotional and psychological spheres. It is used to describe grief, sorrow, heartache, and profound sadness. When someone loses a loved one, the grief they experience is referred to as 'dolor'. This dual nature of the word makes it incredibly versatile and powerful in both everyday conversation and literary contexts. The etymology of 'dolor' traces back to the Latin word 'dolor', which carries the exact same meaning. This direct lineage explains why the word is so deeply embedded in Romance languages and why it shares cognates with English words like 'dolorous' (sad or mournful) and 'condolence' (an expression of sympathy for someone's pain).

Emotional Pain: Used to express sadness, grief, or heartbreak, often in the context of loss or disappointment.

El dolor de perder a su perro fue inmenso.

In medical contexts, 'dolor' is often categorized by its intensity and duration. For instance, 'dolor agudo' refers to sharp, sudden pain, while 'dolor crónico' refers to long-lasting, persistent pain. Understanding these distinctions is vital for effective communication with healthcare professionals. Furthermore, 'dolor' can be used metaphorically to describe a difficult or annoying situation, similar to saying something is 'a pain' in English.

Metaphorical Pain: Refers to annoyances, burdens, or extremely frustrating situations that cause mental strain.

Este proyecto de matemáticas es un verdadero dolor de cabeza.

The cultural significance of 'dolor' in Hispanic literature and art cannot be overstated. From the passionate lyrics of flamenco and tango to the poignant poetry of Pablo Neruda and Federico García Lorca, 'dolor' is a recurring theme that explores the depths of the human condition. It is often portrayed not just as something to be avoided, but as a profound experience that shapes character and deepens empathy.

Cantar ayuda a aliviar el dolor del alma.

In summary, 'dolor' is a multifaceted word that serves as a cornerstone of Spanish vocabulary. Whether you are navigating a medical emergency, comforting a grieving friend, or simply complaining about a difficult task, 'dolor' is the word you will reach for. Its rich etymological roots and deep cultural resonance make it a word worthy of careful study and nuanced understanding.

No hay dolor que el tiempo no cure.

By mastering the various contexts and collocations of 'dolor', learners can significantly enhance their ability to express complex physical and emotional states in Spanish, thereby achieving a higher level of fluency and cultural competence.

Using the word 'dolor' correctly in Spanish involves understanding its grammatical properties, common collocations, and the specific verbs it pairs with. As a masculine noun, 'dolor' is always preceded by masculine articles such as 'el' (the) or 'un' (a/an). It is most frequently used with the verb 'tener' (to have) to express that someone is experiencing pain. For example, 'Tengo dolor' translates to 'I have pain'. However, Spanish has a very specific and common construction for localized physical pain: 'dolor de + [body part]'.

Tener dolor de...: This is the standard formula for expressing an ache in a specific body part, such as a headache or toothache.

Ella no fue a trabajar porque tenía un terrible dolor de muelas.

Another crucial verb used with 'dolor' is 'sentir' (to feel). While 'tener dolor' states the fact of having pain, 'sentir dolor' emphasizes the sensation or experience of the pain. This is often used in more descriptive or medical contexts. For instance, a doctor might ask, '¿Siente dolor cuando presiono aquí?' (Do you feel pain when I press here?). When describing the intensity or nature of the pain, 'dolor' is modified by adjectives that follow the noun. Common adjectives include 'fuerte' (strong/severe), 'agudo' (sharp), 'leve' (mild), 'crónico' (chronic), and 'punzante' (stabbing/throbbing).

Describing Pain: Use adjectives after 'dolor' to give the listener or doctor a precise understanding of what you are experiencing.

El paciente se queja de un dolor agudo en el pecho.

In emotional contexts, 'dolor' is often paired with words that convey depth and weight, such as 'profundo' (deep) or 'inmenso' (immense). It is frequently used with verbs like 'causar' (to cause), 'aliviar' (to relieve), and 'soportar' (to bear/endure). For example, 'Sus palabras me causaron mucho dolor' (His words caused me a lot of pain).

Es difícil soportar el dolor de una traición.

It is also important to note the idiomatic uses of 'dolor'. The phrase 'un dolor de cabeza' is used exactly like 'a headache' in English to describe a highly annoying person or situation. 'Ese trámite burocrático es un dolor de cabeza' (That bureaucratic process is a headache).

Idiomatic Usage: Using 'dolor' to describe frustrations rather than actual physical or emotional suffering.

Mi nuevo jefe es un verdadero dolor de cabeza.

When writing or speaking formally, such as in medical reports or literature, 'dolor' remains the standard term. However, in casual conversation, you might hear people use the verb 'doler' more frequently than the noun 'dolor' for simple complaints (e.g., 'Me duele la rodilla' instead of 'Tengo dolor de rodilla'). Mastering both the noun and the verb forms is essential.

El médico le recetó algo para aliviar el dolor articular.

By practicing these structures—'tener dolor de', 'sentir dolor', and pairing 'dolor' with appropriate adjectives—learners can communicate their physical and emotional states accurately and naturally in any Spanish-speaking environment.

The word 'dolor' is ubiquitous in the Spanish-speaking world, appearing in a wide variety of contexts ranging from the mundane to the profound. One of the most common places you will hear 'dolor' is in medical settings: hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. When interacting with doctors, nurses, or pharmacists, 'dolor' is the primary keyword used to diagnose and treat ailments. You will hear questions like '¿Del uno al diez, qué tan fuerte es el dolor?' (From one to ten, how strong is the pain?).

Medical Contexts: Hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies where diagnosing physical ailments is the primary focus.

El doctor me preguntó dónde sentía el dolor exactamente.

Beyond the hospital, 'dolor' is frequently heard in everyday household conversations. Family members complain to each other about a 'dolor de espalda' (backache) after a long day of work, or parents comfort a child who has a 'dolor de barriga' (tummy ache). In these intimate settings, 'dolor' is a word that elicits care, empathy, and the offering of home remedies like chamomile tea or a warm compress. Another significant arena where 'dolor' is prominently featured is in the arts, particularly in music and literature. Spanish-language music genres such as rancheras, boleros, flamenco, and tango are famous for their dramatic and passionate expressions of heartbreak and sorrow. In these songs, 'dolor' is almost a character itself, representing the agony of lost love, betrayal, or nostalgia.

Music and Arts: Used poetically in songs and poems to describe profound emotional suffering and heartbreak.

La canción habla del dolor de un amor no correspondido.

You will also encounter 'dolor' in news broadcasts and journalism, especially when reporting on tragedies, accidents, or natural disasters. Reporters often speak of the 'dolor' of the victims' families or the collective 'dolor' of a nation in mourning. In this context, the word conveys a formal, respectful acknowledgment of widespread suffering.

El país entero comparte el dolor de las familias afectadas por el terremoto.

In religious contexts, particularly within Catholicism which has a strong historical presence in the Hispanic world, 'dolor' is a recurring theme. The 'Virgen de los Dolores' (Our Lady of Sorrows) is a prominent figure, and the concept of suffering as a spiritual trial is deeply ingrained in religious discourse.

Religious Contexts: References to spiritual suffering, penance, and figures like the Virgin of Sorrows.

Durante la Semana Santa, se reflexiona sobre el dolor de Cristo.

Finally, in casual slang, you might hear 'dolor' used humorously to describe something tedious. For example, a difficult exam or a complicated bureaucratic procedure might be described as 'un dolor'.

Renovar el pasaporte fue un dolor, tardé todo el día.

Understanding these diverse contexts—from the clinical precision of a doctor's office to the poetic depths of a bolero—will give you a comprehensive grasp of how 'dolor' functions in the Spanish language.

When learning to use the word 'dolor', English speakers often make a few predictable mistakes due to direct translation habits and confusion between related parts of speech. The most frequent and significant error is confusing the noun 'dolor' (pain) with the verb 'doler' (to hurt/ache). Because English uses 'pain' as both a noun ('I have a pain') and sometimes as a verb ('It pains me'), learners often try to use 'dolor' as a verb.

Noun vs. Verb Confusion: Using 'dolor' when the verb 'doler' is required. 'Dolor' is strictly a noun.

Incorrect: Mi cabeza dolor. Correct: Me duele la cabeza OR Tengo dolor de cabeza.

Another common mistake involves the preposition used to connect 'dolor' with a body part. In English, we say 'pain in my stomach' or 'stomachache'. In Spanish, the correct structure is 'dolor de [body part]'. Learners often say 'dolor en el estómago', which is understandable but less natural than 'dolor de estómago'. Gender agreement is another area where learners stumble. 'Dolor' ends in '-or', and words ending in '-or' in Spanish are almost always masculine (with exceptions like 'la flor'). However, because it describes an abstract concept or a physical feeling, some learners mistakenly apply the feminine article, saying 'la dolor'. It must always be 'el dolor'.

Gender Errors: Incorrectly assigning the feminine gender to 'dolor'. It is always masculine.

Siento un dolor muy fuerte en el brazo. (Not 'una dolor')

Furthermore, learners sometimes struggle with how to express that they are 'in pain'. In English, 'I am in pain' uses the verb 'to be'. If you translate this directly to Spanish as 'Estoy en dolor', it sounds completely unnatural and is grammatically incorrect. The correct way to express this state is using the verb 'tener' (to have) or 'sentir' (to feel).

Incorrect: Estoy en dolor. Correct: Tengo mucho dolor.

Lastly, there is a nuance in describing emotional pain versus physical pain. While 'dolor' works for both, learners sometimes overuse it for minor emotional upsets where words like 'pena' (sorrow/pity) or 'tristeza' (sadness) would be more appropriate. Using 'dolor' for a minor disappointment can sound overly dramatic.

Overusing for Minor Emotions: Reserving 'dolor' for deep emotional trauma rather than everyday sadness or pity.

Para la pérdida de su abuelo, sintió un gran dolor. (Appropriate use)

Me da pena que no puedas venir a la fiesta. (Better than using 'dolor' here)

By being aware of these common pitfalls—especially the distinction between 'dolor' and 'doler', the use of 'tener' instead of 'estar', and proper preposition usage—you can speak about pain in Spanish with much greater accuracy and natural flow.

While 'dolor' is the most direct and common translation for 'pain', the Spanish language offers a rich vocabulary of synonyms and related terms that convey specific nuances of physical and emotional suffering. Understanding these similar words allows for more precise and expressive communication. One of the closest synonyms for physical pain is 'malestar'. However, 'malestar' generally refers to a general sense of discomfort, unease, or a mild, non-specific illness, rather than a sharp, localized pain.

Malestar vs. Dolor: 'Malestar' is general discomfort or malaise, while 'dolor' is distinct, localized pain.

Tengo un malestar general, creo que me voy a resfriar.

Another related word is 'sufrimiento', which translates to 'suffering'. While 'dolor' can be a momentary physical sensation, 'sufrimiento' implies a prolonged state of enduring pain, distress, or hardship, often with a strong emotional or psychological component. It is a heavier, more dramatic word. For emotional pain, 'pena' is a very common alternative. 'Pena' translates to sorrow, grief, or pity. It is often used for the sadness felt over a loss or a regrettable situation. While 'dolor' can also mean grief, 'pena' is exclusively emotional and is frequently used in everyday conversation to express sympathy ('Qué pena' - What a pity).

Pena vs. Dolor: 'Pena' is emotional sorrow or pity, whereas 'dolor' covers both physical and severe emotional pain.

Sintió una gran pena al despedirse de su familia.

The word 'daño' translates to 'damage' or 'harm'. While it is not a direct synonym for the sensation of pain, it is closely related because 'daño' is often the cause of 'dolor'. The phrase 'hacer daño' means to hurt or cause harm, which results in pain.

Ese comentario cruel le hizo mucho daño.

For extreme pain or anguish, words like 'tormento' (torment), 'agonía' (agony), and 'angustia' (anguish) are used. These are highly expressive terms reserved for severe situations. 'Angustia' specifically refers to a state of extreme anxiety or emotional distress, often accompanied by a physical sensation of tightness in the chest.

Extreme Expressions: Words like 'agonía' and 'angustia' elevate the intensity of the suffering being described.

La espera de los resultados médicos fue una verdadera angustia.

El paciente estaba en agonía antes de recibir la morfina.

By distinguishing between 'dolor', 'malestar', 'pena', 'sufrimiento', and 'daño', learners can articulate their physical and emotional states with the precision of a native speaker, ensuring that their exact meaning and intensity are clearly understood.

How Formal Is It?

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Wichtige Grammatik

Using 'tener' for physical states

Gender of nouns ending in -or

Preposition 'de' for description (dolor de cabeza)

Difference between noun (dolor) and verb (doler)

Adjective placement (dolor fuerte vs fuerte dolor)

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Beispiele nach Niveau

Tengo dolor de cabeza.

I have a headache.

Uses 'tener' + 'dolor de' + body part.

El niño tiene dolor de estómago.

The boy has a stomachache.

Third person singular of 'tener' with 'dolor de'.

Tengo mucho dolor aquí.

I have a lot of pain here.

'Mucho' acts as an adjective modifying the masculine noun 'dolor'.

Ella tiene dolor de muelas.

She has a toothache.

'Muelas' is plural, but the structure 'dolor de' remains the same.

¿Tienes dolor de garganta?

Do you have a sore throat?

Question format using 'tener'.

No tengo dolor.

I don't have pain.

Basic negation with 'no' before the verb.

El dolor es muy fuerte.

The pain is very strong.

Using 'ser' to describe the characteristic of the noun.

Necesito medicina para el dolor.

I need medicine for the pain.

Preposition 'para' indicates purpose.

Siento un dolor agudo en la rodilla.

I feel a sharp pain in my knee.

Using the verb 'sentir' and the adjective 'agudo'.

El médico me dio pastillas para aliviar el dolor.

The doctor gave me pills to relieve the pain.

Infinitive 'aliviar' used after 'para'.

Ayer tuve un dolor de espalda terrible.

Yesterday I had a terrible backache.

Preterite tense of 'tener' (tuve).

Lloró de dolor cuando se cayó.

He cried in pain when he fell.

Preposition 'de' used to indicate the cause of crying.

Es un dolor constante que no desaparece.

It is a constant pain that doesn't go away.

Relative clause 'que no desaparece' modifying 'dolor'.

Siento mucho dolor por tu pérdida.

I feel a lot of pain for your loss.

Expressing emotional pain/sympathy.

¿Te calmó el dolor la medicina?

Did the medicine calm the pain for you?

Verb 'calmar' with direct object 'el dolor'.

El dolor muscular es normal después de hacer ejercicio.

Muscle pain is normal after exercising.

Adjective 'muscular' following the noun.

El paciente sufre de dolor crónico desde hace años.

The patient has suffered from chronic pain for years.

Verb 'sufrir de' and expression of time 'desde hace'.

Ese trámite burocrático es un verdadero dolor de cabeza.

That bureaucratic process is a real headache.

Idiomatic/metaphorical use of 'dolor de cabeza'.

No puedo soportar este dolor en el pecho.

I can't bear this pain in my chest.

Verb 'soportar' (to bear/endure) with 'dolor'.

El dolor emocional puede ser más difícil de curar que el físico.

Emotional pain can be harder to cure than physical pain.

Comparison structure 'más... que'.

Me causó mucho dolor enterarme de la noticia.

It caused me a lot of pain to find out the news.

Verb 'causar' with indirect object pronoun 'me'.

Para el manejo del dolor, recomendamos fisioterapia.

For pain management, we recommend physical therapy.

Noun phrase 'manejo del dolor' (pain management).

A pesar del dolor, continuó corriendo hasta la meta.

Despite the pain, he continued running to the finish line.

Prepositional phrase 'A pesar de' (Despite).

El dolor punzante me despertó en medio de la noche.

The throbbing pain woke me up in the middle of the night.

Specific adjective 'punzante' (throbbing/stabbing).

La analgesia epidural se utiliza para mitigar el dolor durante el parto.

Epidural analgesia is used to mitigate pain during childbirth.

Advanced medical vocabulary and passive voice 'se utiliza'.

Es desgarrador ver el dolor reflejado en los ojos de los refugiados.

It is heartbreaking to see the pain reflected in the eyes of the refugees.

Participle 'reflejado' modifying 'dolor'.

El umbral del dolor varía significativamente de una persona a otra.

The pain threshold varies significantly from one person to another.

Technical phrase 'umbral del dolor' (pain threshold).

Escribir poesía fue su manera de canalizar el dolor de la ruptura.

Writing poetry was his way of channeling the pain of the breakup.

Infinitive 'canalizar' used as a noun equivalent.

Me indigna la indiferencia de la sociedad ante el dolor ajeno.

The indifference of society to the pain of others angers me.

Adjective 'ajeno' meaning 'of others'.

Los cuidados paliativos buscan aliviar el dolor en pacientes terminales.

Palliative care seeks to relieve pain in terminal patients.

Medical terminology 'cuidados paliativos'.

El dolor fantasma es una sensación real que experimentan los amputados.

Phantom pain is a real sensation experienced by amputees.

Specific medical concept 'dolor fantasma'.

No hay palabras que puedan consolar un dolor tan profundo.

There are no words that can console such deep pain.

Subjunctive 'puedan' in a relative clause following a negative antecedent.

El autor plasma en su novela el dolor inefable de la posguerra.

The author captures in his novel the ineffable pain of the postwar period.

Literary vocabulary 'plasma' and 'inefable'.

La neuropatía diabética a menudo se manifiesta como un dolor urente en las extremidades.

Diabetic neuropathy often manifests as a burning pain in the extremities.

Highly specific medical adjective 'urente' (burning).

El estoicismo propone una aceptación serena del dolor como parte inherente de la existencia.

Stoicism proposes a serene acceptance of pain as an inherent part of existence.

Philosophical context and abstract nouns.

Su discurso estuvo impregnado de un dolor sordo y contenido por las injusticias sufridas.

His speech was imbued with a dull, restrained pain for the injustices suffered.

Metaphorical adjectives 'sordo' (dull/deaf) and 'contenido' (restrained).

La somatización del dolor psicológico es un fenómeno ampliamente estudiado en psiquiatría.

The somatization of psychological pain is a widely studied phenomenon in psychiatry.

Academic/scientific register.

Acuciado por el dolor, el protagonista toma decisiones moralmente ambiguas.

Beset by pain, the protagonist makes morally ambiguous decisions.

Participle 'Acuciado' (beset/urged) starting a subordinate clause.

El luto es el proceso mediante el cual el psiquismo elabora el dolor de la pérdida.

Mourning is the process by which the psyche processes the pain of loss.

Psychological terminology 'psiquismo' and 'elabora'.

El dolor, lejos de doblegarla, forjó en ella una resiliencia inquebrantable.

The pain, far from breaking her, forged in her an unbreakable resilience.

Rhetorical structure 'lejos de' + infinitive.

En la poética lorquiana, el dolor telúrico brota de las entrañas mismas de la tierra andaluza.

In Lorca's poetics, the telluric pain springs from the very bowels of the Andalusian earth.

Literary criticism register, highly evocative adjectives ('telúrico').

La ontología del dolor sugiere que el sufrimiento no es un mero accidente, sino una condición constitutiva del ser.

The ontology of pain suggests that suffering is not a mere accident, but a constitutive condition of being.

Philosophical discourse, complex abstract syntax.

Ese dolor atávico, transmitido de generación en generación, permeaba todas las tradiciones del pueblo.

That atavistic pain, transmitted from generation to generation, permeated all the traditions of the village.

Use of 'atávico' (ancestral/atavistic).

El virtuosismo del violonchelista logró transmutar el dolor descarnado de la partitura en una belleza sublime.

The cellist's virtuosity managed to transmute the stark pain of the score into sublime beauty.

Artistic critique vocabulary ('transmutar', 'descarnado').

Frente a la inefabilidad del dolor extremo, el lenguaje claudica y solo queda el silencio.

Faced with the ineffability of extreme pain, language gives up and only silence remains.

Advanced vocabulary 'inefabilidad' and 'claudica' (gives up/yields).

La hiperalgesia inducida por opioides es una paradoja clínica donde el tratamiento exacerba el dolor subyacente.

Opioid-induced hyperalgesia is a clinical paradox where the treatment exacerbates the underlying pain.

Highly specialized medical/pharmacological terminology.

Su prosa, cincelada a golpe de dolor, destila una lucidez que estremece al lector.

His prose, chiseled by blows of pain, distills a lucidity that makes the reader shudder.

Poetic metaphor 'cincelada a golpe de dolor'.

El patetismo de la escena radicaba en la contención de un dolor que amenazaba con desbordarse en cualquier instante.

The pathos of the scene lay in the containment of a pain that threatened to overflow at any moment.

Theatrical/literary analysis terms ('patetismo', 'radicaba').

Häufige Kollokationen

dolor de cabeza

dolor de estómago

dolor de espalda

dolor agudo

dolor crónico

sentir dolor

causar dolor

aliviar el dolor

soportar el dolor

umbral del dolor

Häufige Phrasen

Tengo dolor de...

Me causa dolor

Un dolor insoportable

Pastillas para el dolor

Sin dolor

Llorar de dolor

Grito de dolor

Dolor muscular

Dolor articular

Manejo del dolor

Wird oft verwechselt mit

dolor vs doler

dolor vs color

dolor vs calor

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"Ser un dolor de cabeza"

"Con dolor de mi corazón"

"Costar sangre, sudor y lágrimas (related concept)"

"Ser un dolor de muelas"

"Estar adolorido"

"Pasar las de Caín (experiencing hardship/pain)"

"Poner el dedo en la llaga (causing emotional pain)"

"Llorar a lágrima viva"

"Sentir en el alma"

"Partir el corazón"

Leicht verwechselbar

dolor vs

Satzmuster

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So verwendest du es

formality

'Dolor' is appropriate in all registers, from highly formal medical reports to casual street slang.

regionalisms

In some Latin American countries, 'dolor de panza' is more common than 'dolor de estómago' in informal speech.

Häufige Fehler

Saying 'la dolor' instead of 'el dolor'.
Saying 'estoy en dolor' instead of 'tengo dolor'.
Confusing the noun 'dolor' with the verb 'doler'.
Saying 'dolor en la cabeza' instead of the more natural 'dolor de cabeza'.
Using 'dolor' for minor disappointments where 'pena' would be better.

Tipps

Always Masculine

Remember that 'dolor' is masculine. It is always 'el dolor' or 'un dolor'. Never use 'la' or 'una'.

Tener vs. Estar

Use 'tener' to express having pain ('Tengo dolor'). Never use 'estar' ('Estoy en dolor' is incorrect).

Dolor de + Body Part

To specify where it hurts, use 'dolor de' followed by the body part. Example: dolor de espalda (backache).

Stress the Last Syllable

The stress in 'dolor' falls on the last syllable: do-LOR. Make sure not to stress the first syllable.

Un dolor de cabeza

Use 'un dolor de cabeza' metaphorically to describe a very annoying situation or person.

Describing Intensity

When at the doctor, use adjectives like 'leve' (mild), 'fuerte' (strong), or 'insoportable' (unbearable) to describe the pain.

Expressing Sympathy

You can say 'Siento mucho tu dolor' to express deep sympathy when someone is grieving.

Dolor vs Doler

'Dolor' is the noun (the pain). 'Doler' is the verb (to hurt). Don't mix them up in sentences.

Aliviar el dolor

The most common verb for relieving or easing pain is 'aliviar'. 'Esta pastilla alivia el dolor'.

No Accent Mark

The word 'dolor' does not have a written accent mark (tilde). It naturally stresses the final syllable because it ends in 'r'.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Imagine a DOoR hitting you, causing you a lot of DOLOR (pain).

Wortherkunft

Latin

Kultureller Kontext

A recurring theme in Boleros and Rancheras.

Nuestra Señora de los Dolores is a key Catholic figure.

Central to the dramatic works of Federico García Lorca.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Gesprächseinstiege

"¿Alguna vez has tenido un dolor tan fuerte que fuiste al hospital?"

"¿Qué haces normalmente para aliviar un dolor de cabeza?"

"¿Crees que el dolor emocional es peor que el dolor físico?"

"¿Cuál es el mayor 'dolor de cabeza' en tu trabajo actual?"

"¿Cómo consuelas a un amigo que está pasando por un gran dolor?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Escribe sobre una vez que tuviste un dolor físico muy fuerte y cómo lo superaste.

Describe una situación que sea un 'dolor de cabeza' para ti en este momento.

Reflexiona sobre cómo la música de tu cultura expresa el dolor emocional.

¿Qué remedios caseros usas en tu familia para el dolor de estómago?

Escribe una carta de consuelo a alguien que está experimentando dolor.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

'Dolor' is a masculine noun. You must always use masculine articles and adjectives with it, such as 'el dolor', 'un dolor', or 'dolor intenso'. A common mistake is saying 'la dolor' because it ends in a consonant, but words ending in '-or' are typically masculine in Spanish.

'Dolor' is the noun meaning 'pain' or 'ache'. 'Doler' is the verb meaning 'to hurt' or 'to ache'. You say 'Tengo dolor' (I have pain) but 'Me duele' (It hurts me). They are related but function differently in a sentence.

The most common way to say 'headache' is 'dolor de cabeza'. You use the structure 'dolor de' followed by the body part. You can say 'Tengo dolor de cabeza' (I have a headache).

Yes, absolutely. 'Dolor' is frequently used to describe grief, sorrow, heartbreak, and emotional suffering. For example, 'el dolor de perder a un ser querido' (the pain of losing a loved one).

Do not translate 'I am in pain' literally as 'Estoy en dolor'. Instead, use the verb 'tener' (to have) or 'sentir' (to feel). Say 'Tengo mucho dolor' (I have a lot of pain) or 'Siento dolor' (I feel pain).

This is an idiom that translates directly to 'to be a headache'. It is used exactly like in English to describe a person, situation, or task that is very frustrating, annoying, or difficult to deal with.

The plural of 'dolor' is 'dolores'. You form the plural by adding '-es' because the word ends in a consonant. For example, 'Ella sufre de dolores crónicos' (She suffers from chronic pains).

You can ask '¿Tienes dolor?' (Do you have pain?) or '¿Sientes dolor?' (Do you feel pain?). A doctor might ask '¿Dónde le duele?' (Where does it hurt you?) using the verb form.

Common adjectives include 'fuerte' (strong/severe), 'agudo' (sharp), 'leve' (mild), 'crónico' (chronic), 'punzante' (throbbing), and 'insoportable' (unbearable). These usually follow the noun: 'un dolor fuerte'.

Yes, 'dolor' is the standard, professional medical term for pain. It is used in diagnoses, patient charts, and when prescribing medication, such as 'analgésicos para el dolor' (painkillers).

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