esposo
standard, Mexico
In Mexico a husband is an esposo, which is the usual and respectful word. Marido is also common in daily talk, and mi viejo is affectionate slang, literally "my old man".
Meaning: married man (noun)
Ways to say it
| Mexican | Note |
|---|---|
| esposo | standard, Mexico |
| Marido | everyday |
| Mi viejo | slang, affectionate |
Women say mi esposo in most situations, such as introducing him to others. Mi marido is a bit more everyday and is not rude.
Which one should you use?
Mi viejo is slang and can be tender or teasing, depending on tone. It is not used in formal settings.
How does it change in a sentence?
The feminine is esposa, and the plural esposos means a married couple or husbands.
Did you know?
- The word esposo also means "handcuff" in the plural form esposas, which Mexicans find easy to mix up in jokes.
Examples in context
- Mi esposo trabaja en Monterrey.My husband works in Monterrey.
- Te presento a mi marido.Let me introduce my husband.
- Mi viejo me trajo flores.My husband brought me flowers.
Example conversation
Rosa introduces her husband to a coworker at a party in Mexico City.
- RosaElena, te presento a mi esposo, Javier.Elena, let me introduce my husband, Javier.
- ElenaMucho gusto, Javier.Nice to meet you, Javier.
- JavierEl gusto es mío.The pleasure is mine.
