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"Qué pena" is a form of "qué pena", a phrase which is often translated as "what a shame". "Es una pena" is a phrase which is often translated as "it's a pity". Learn more about the difference between "es una pena" and "qué pena" below.
A phrase is a group of words commonly used together (e.g., once upon a time).
phrase
a. it's a pity
Es una pena que no pudieras venir a mi cumpleaños.It's a pity that you couldn't come to my birthday.
b. it's a shame
Es una pena que no vayas al cine con nosotros.It's a shame you won't come to the movies with us.
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qué pena(
keh
 
peh
-
nah
)
A phrase is a group of words commonly used together (e.g., once upon a time).
phrase
a. what a shame
No voy a poder ir con ustedes mañana. - ¡Ay, qué pena!I'm not going to be able to go with you guys tomorrow. - Oh, what a shame!
b. too bad
¡Qué pena que no ganaste el primer lugar!Too bad you didn't win first place.
2. (used to express apology)
Regionalism used in Colombia
(Colombia)
Regionalism used in Mexico
(Mexico)
a. I'm sorry
Oye, me pegaste con el codo. - Qué pena, señora. ¡Fue sin querer!Hey, you just elbowed me. - I'm sorry, madam. It was an accident!
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