tasa
nounCEFR B2High frequency
What does “tasa” mean in English?
rate, ratio — a measure of how often something occurs; also a levy or fee
rate, ratio — a measure of how often something occurs; also a levy or fee (tasa de desempleo/natalidad; tasa impositiva)
Example sentences
La tasa de desempleo juvenil en algunas regiones supera el veinte por ciento, lo que constituye un grave problema estructural.
The youth unemployment rate in some regions exceeds twenty per cent, constituting a serious structural problem.
La tasa de interés fijada por el banco central afecta directamente a las hipotecas de millones de familias.
The interest rate set by the central bank directly affects the mortgages of millions of families.
Las tasas universitarias se han incrementado en varias comunidades autónomas pese a las protestas estudiantiles.
University fees have increased in several autonomous communities despite student protests.
How to use it
La tasa (noun, feminine) means 'rate, ratio, levy' — a measured proportion expressed as a percentage, or an official charge. Core B2 collocations: tasa de desempleo/natalidad/mortalidad/analfabetismo; tasa de interés; tasa impositiva; tasas académicas (tuition fees). The verb is tasar (to value, to set a price). Distinguish from porcentaje (percentage — the figure) and índice (index — composite measure).
Common mistake
In Spain, tipo de interés is more common than tasa de interés for interest rate. Tasas (plural) often means 'fees' in academic or administrative contexts. Don't confuse tasa with impuesto (tax, a broader category). 'Tax rate' = tipo impositivo or tasa impositiva.