cursi
/ˈkuɾsi/
The English phrase "cheesy" can be translated into Spanish as cursi.
cursi is used to describe something that is overdramatic, clichéd or excessively sentimental and overly romantic.
Meaning: overdramatic, clichéd (adj)
Which one should you use?
While cursi refers to being overly sentimental or clichéd, the word chafa is used to describe something that is of poor quality or lacks authenticity.
Is it said differently in some regions?
chafa is a term often used in Latin America.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈkuɾsi/
Did you know?
- While cursi is a standard term, in Mexico you might hear someone use payaso to describe a person being 'cheesy' or 'ridiculous' in an annoying way.
- The word cursi can sometimes carry a stronger social judgment than 'cheesy' does in English, as it can subtly suggest a person is trying too hard to appear 'upper class'.
- While cursi describes a style, the word cursiada refers to a specific action or phrase that is so sentimental it becomes embarrassing.
Examples in context
- Esa película es muy cursi.That movie is very cheesy.
- No seas tan cursi, Daniel.Don't be so cheesy, Daniel.
- Escribió un poema muy cursi.He wrote a very cheesy poem.
Example conversation
Daniel and Elena are talking about a romantic comedy.
- DanielMe encanta esta escena, es tan romántica.I love this scene, it is so romantic.
- ElenaPara mí es un poco cursi.For me, it is a bit cheesy.
- Daniel¡No seas así, Elena!Don't be like that, Elena!
- ElenaEs que es demasiado cursi.It's just that it's too cheesy.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry cursi, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
