vs
QUICK ANSWER
"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.
es una pena(
ehs
oo
-
nah
peh
-
nah
)A phrase is a group of words commonly used together (e.g., once upon a time).
1. (general)
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.
qué pena(
keh
peh
-
nah
)A phrase is a group of words commonly used together (e.g., once upon a time).
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!
2. (used to express apology) (Colombia) (Mexico)
Regionalism used in Colombia
Regionalism used in 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!