bicho
informal, insect
For a small crawling or flying creature, Mexicans say bicho in casual speech and insecto in neutral language. For a software bug, error is the standard word.
Meaning: small insect or software error (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | Note |
|---|---|
| bicho | informal, insect |
| insecto | neutral, insect |
| error | software, neutral |
Hay un bicho en la pared is a natural way to point out a bug at home. Insecto fits school, science or pest control.
Which one should you use?
In tech talk Mexicans often use the English word bug as well, but error is the safe Spanish choice. Specific bugs have their own names, for example cucaracha (cockroach) and mosquito.
Did you know?
- In Mexican Spanish bicho can also be affectionate, as when a parent calls a mischievous child bichito.
Examples in context
- Hay un bicho en mi cuarto.There is a bug in my room.
- Ese insecto pica mucho.That insect bites a lot.
- La aplicación tiene un error.The app has a bug.
Example conversation
Ana and her little brother Pablo find a bug on the kitchen table in Veracruz.
- Pablo¡Mamá, hay un bicho en la mesa!Mom, there is a bug on the table!
- AnaTranquilo, solo es una hormiga.Calm down, it is just an ant.
- PabloSácala, por favor.Take it out, please.
