boludo
slang, Argentina, rude
The most Argentine word for "idiot" is boludo. Idiota is understood everywhere, and pelotudo is a stronger and vulgar version.
Meaning: insulting word for a foolish person (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | Note |
|---|---|
| boludo | slang, Argentina, rude |
| idiota | neutral, insult |
| pelotudo | vulgar, strong |
Among close friends boludo is often just a way to say "dude" and is not meant as an insult. With strangers it can start a fight.
Which one should you use?
Idiota is a plain insult. Pelotudo is much harsher than boludo and is not used lightly.
How does it change in a sentence?
These words are used for men. For a woman the endings change to boluda and pelotuda, and idiota stays the same.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Do not copy the friendly use of boludo with people you do not know well.
Did you know?
- Boludo is so common in Argentine speech that it is one of the first words foreigners notice there.
Examples in context
- No seas boludo.Don't be an idiot.
- Sos un idiota.You are an idiot.
- Che, boludo, ¿vamos?Hey, dude, shall we go?
Example conversation
Diego and his friend Nico joke around after Nico forgets the tickets in Rosario.
- DiegoNico, ¿trajiste las entradas?Nico, did you bring the tickets?
- NicoMe las olvidé en casa.I forgot them at home.
- DiegoSos un boludo, pero te quiero.You are an idiot, but I love you.
