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demora means delay — a common term in Travel Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: October 31, 2025

✈️ Travel Spanish

demora

noun • /[de-MO-ra]/

delay

Example:

El tren tiene una demora de dos horas.

The train is delayed by two hours.

🧠 What does demora mean?

Demora refers to a delay or a postponement in time. It is a noun that commonly appears in contexts related to travel, transportation, or appointments where schedules are involved. It signifies an unexpected or planned interruption to the expected timing of an event or journey.

📚 Extra examples

  • Hubo una demora considerable en nuestro vuelo debido al mal tiempo.
    There was a considerable delay on our flight due to bad weather.
  • La demora en la entrega del paquete causó inconvenientes.
    The delay in the package delivery caused inconvenience.
  • La constructora solicitó una demora en el inicio de las obras.
    The construction company requested a delay in the start of the works.
  • A pesar de la demora, llegamos a nuestro destino sanos y salvos.
    Despite the delay, we arrived at our destination safe and sound.
  • La oficina de correos explicó que la demora se debió a un problema logístico.
    The post office explained that the delay was due to a logistical problem.

💡 Did You Know?

The verb form associated with 'demora' is 'demorar', which means 'to delay' or 'to take a long time'. For example, 'El trámite se demoró más de lo esperado' (The process took longer than expected).

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "demora"

Synonyms: retraso, dilación, aplazo, interrupción
Opposites: puntualidad, rapidez, prontitud

🔍 See more travel spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'delay' in Spanish?
The most common word for 'delay' in Spanish is 'demora'. Other related terms might be used depending on the specific context, such as 'retraso'.
How do you pronounce 'demora' in Spanish?
The pronunciation of 'demora' is approximately deh-MOH-rah. The stress is on the second syllable, 'MOH'.
How do you use 'demora' in a sentence?
'Demora' is used as a noun. It can be preceded by articles (la demora), prepositions (con demora, sin demora), or possessives. For example, 'La demora del tren fue de una hora' (The train's delay was one hour) or 'Se espera una demora en la respuesta' (A delay in the response is expected).
What is the English translation of 'demora'?
The English translation of 'demora' is 'delay'.
Does 'demora' change for gender or number?
'Demora' is a feminine singular noun. Its plural form is 'demoras', but it is less commonly used in this form when referring to a single instance of delay. The word itself does not change for gender.
Is 'demora' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'demora' is a common word in everyday Spanish, particularly when discussing schedules, appointments, travel, or any situation where time is a factor.
Does 'demora' have slang or double meanings?
In its standard usage, 'demora' does not typically have slang or double meanings. It consistently refers to a delay.
Is 'demora' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The core meaning and usage of 'demora' are consistent across Spain and Latin America. While regional variations in vocabulary exist, 'demora' is widely understood and used in both regions to mean 'delay'.

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