estoy duro
/estoi duɾo/from spelling rules
The English phrase "I am hard" translates to Spanish as estoy duro when used by a man to indicate that he has an erection.
Which one should you use?
Using estoy duro (with the verb *estar*) refers to a temporary physical state. In contrast, saying soy duro (using the verb *ser*) changes the meaning to a personality trait, implying "I am a tough or strong person".
What mistakes should you avoid?
Do not use estoy duro to express that you are having a difficult time or that a task is challenging. Instead, use the word difícil to mean "hard" or "difficult" in those contexts.
Did you know?
- In some Caribbean dialects, estoy duro can be used to brag about having a lot of money, meaning 'I am loaded' or 'I am rich'.
- The word duro is the name of a historical Spanish silver coin, a term used because of the perceived durability and hardness of the metal.
- The etymology of duro actually traces back to a Proto-Indo-European root meaning 'long' or 'far' rather than physical hardness.
Examples in context
- Soy difícil de complacer en cuanto a los resultados de mi trabajo.I am hard to please when it comes to the outcomes of my work.
- Soy exigente conmigo mismo/a y siempre me esfuerzo por hacer lo mejor.I am hard on myself and always strive to do my best.
- Soy exigente contigo, pero sé que lo puedes hacer mejor.I am demanding with you, but I know you can do better.
- Lo siento, pero estoy duro.I am sorry, but I am hard.
- No puedo controlarlo, estoy duro.I can't control it, I am hard.
- Me excito mucho y estoy duro.I get very excited and I am hard.
Example conversation
A couple is talking intimately in their bedroom.
- AlejandroNo puedo evitarlo, estoy duro.I can't help it, I am hard.
- LucíaTe noto muy excitado, Alejandro.I notice you are very excited, Alejandro.
- AlejandroEs que me encantas, Lucía.It's just that I adore you, Lucía.
- LucíaMe gusta que estés así.I like that you are like this.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries duro, CC BY-SA 4.0.
