Qué pena
Example: Qué pena que no pudiste venir a la fiesta ayer.
Definition
"Qué pena" is a Spanish expression used to convey sympathy, regret, or disappointment about a situation, similar to saying 'what a pity' or 'that's too bad' in English. It expresses a feeling of sadness or empathy for an unfortunate circumstance.
Etymology
The phrase "qué pena" comes from the Spanish words 'qué' meaning 'what' and 'pena' meaning 'pain' or 'sorrow'. Together, they form an expression that literally translates as 'what pain,' reflecting emotional discomfort or regret. Did you know? The word 'pena' has roots in Latin 'poena', which originally meant 'punishment'.
Learn to use this expression actively
"Qué pena" appears in the Vocaplus list "Spanish - General - Modismos y refranes - (A1) - parte 1", containing 112 commonly used expressions.
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