What does it mean word for word?
The phrase de terror functions as an adjective phrase meaning "of terror" or "of horror" when it modifies a noun like películas.
Which one should you use?
You can use Disfruto de las películas de terror to imply a deeper enjoyment of the films. For a more casual tone, the colloquial expression Las pelis de miedo son lo mío can be used to show a strong connection to the genre.
How does it change in a sentence?
In the phrase me gustan las películas de terror, the verb gustar is used in a way that literally means "horror movies are pleasing to me". Because the movies are the subject of the sentence, the verb must be plural (gustan) to agree with the plural subject las películas.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid saying yo gusto las películas de terror. English speakers often make this mistake by translating "I like" directly, but in Spanish, the thing being liked is the subject, so you must use me gustan.
Did you know?
- In Spanish, the word terror can be used to describe a person who is a handful or a troublemaker, such as calling a naughty child un terror.
- The word películas is the standard term for movies, but in some countries, people use cintas, which literally means 'ribbons' or 'tapes'.
- While me gustan is standard, a movie fan might say soy cinéfilo to describe their passion. This Greek-rooted term implies a deeper, more intellectual love for cinema than a simple preference for a genre.
Examples in context
- Algunos directores españoles hacen muy buenas películas de terror. Me gusta el cine de terror.Some Spanish directors make very good horror movies. I like horror movies.
- En mi tiempo libre, disfruto de las películas de terror. Me parecen fascinantes.In my free time, I enjoy horror movies. They seem fascinating to me.
- No puedo evitarlo, me encantan las películas de terror. Me emocionan mucho.I can't help it, I love horror movies. They excite me a lot.
- ¡Las pelis de miedo son lo mío! ¡Me ponen los pelos de punta y me encanta la adrenalina!Horror movies are my thing! They give me goosebumps and I love the adrenaline!
- ¿Sabes que me gustan las películas de terror?Do you know that I like horror movies?
Example conversation
Elena and Javier are deciding what to watch on Netflix.
- ElenaA mí me gustan las películas de terror.I like horror movies.
- Javier¿En serio? A mí me dan mucho miedo.Really? They scare me a lot.
- ElenaNo te preocupes, podemos ver una comedia.Don't worry, we can watch a comedy.
- JavierSí, eso suena mucho mejor.Yes, that sounds much better.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
