Gross! Disgusting! Unpleasant! We all have those moments when we need to express our distaste or disgust. In English, we often use the word “ew” or similar interjections to convey these feelings. But how do you say “ew” in Spanish? In this comprehensive guide, we will explore different formal and informal ways to express disgust in Spanish, while also providing regional variations where necessary. Get ready to expand your Spanish vocabulary and express your aversion in a variety of situations!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Ew” in Spanish
When it comes to expressing disgust formally in Spanish, it’s essential to use polite and appropriate language. Here are some phrases you can use:
1. Qué asco
This phrase literally translates to “how disgusting.” It is a polite and commonly used expression to convey disgust or repulsion. For example:
Qué asco me da esa comida. (That food disgusts me.)
Me encontré una cucaracha en el baño. ¡Qué asco! (I found a cockroach in the bathroom. How disgusting!)
2. Me parece repugnante
This phrase translates to “it seems repugnant to me” and is a more formal way of expressing disgust. You can use it to describe something that you find utterly unpleasant. Examples:
Me parece repugnante la forma en que habla. (I find the way he speaks repugnant.)
Esa película es horrible. Me parece repugnante. (That movie is dreadful. It seems repugnant to me.)
Informal Ways to Say “Ew” in Spanish
Informal language allows for a more casual and direct expression of disgust. Here are some phrases you can use:
1. ¡Qué asco!
This phrase is the informal counterpart of the formal “qué asco.” It is commonly used among friends and in everyday conversations. Examples:
¡Qué asco! No puedo creer que hayas comido eso. (Ew! I can’t believe you ate that.)
Me dijeron que hay una araña enorme en el sótano. ¡Qué asco! (They told me there’s a huge spider in the basement. Ew!)
2. Da asco
This phrase translates to “it gives (me) disgust” and is often used informally to express aversion. Here are some examples:
Esa imagen me da asco. (That image disgusts me.)
No puedo comer esto, me da asco. (I can’t eat this, it disgusts me.)
Regional Variations
While the phrases mentioned above are widely understood across Spanish-speaking regions, there are some variations in different countries. Let’s take a look at a few regional ways to say “ew” in Spanish:
Mexico:
- ¡Qué feo! (How ugly!)
- ¡Qué asqueroso! (How disgusting!)
Argentina:
- ¡Qué asquete! (How gross!)
- ¡Qué repugnancia! (How repulsive!)
Spain:
- ¡Qué asco más grande! (What a huge disgust!)
- ¡Qué repelús! (How gross!)
Remember, regional variations are not exclusive to these countries, but they give you a good starting point to understand the diversity of the Spanish language.
Tips for Using “Ew” Effectively in Spanish
1. Context is Key
Just like in English, the context in which you use the word “ew” in Spanish is crucial. Consider the situation, your relationship with the person you’re speaking to, and the tone of the conversation.
2. Pay Attention to Intonation
The way you say “ew” in Spanish can convey different levels of disgust. Adjust your intonation accordingly to accurately express your feelings.
3. Use Facial Expressions and Body Language
In addition to verbal expressions, your facial expressions and body language can enhance the impact of your disgust. Consider using appropriate facial expressions and gestures to accompany your words.
Conclusion
Expressing disgust is a universal feeling, and knowing how to say “ew” in Spanish allows you to communicate your distaste effectively. In this guide, we covered both formal and informal ways to express “ew” in Spanish, along with regional variations where applicable. Remember to consider the context, tailor your expressions to your audience, and use appropriate intonation and body language to convey the desired message. Now you are equipped with a range of vocabulary to express your aversion in Spanish. ¡Que asco!
