vago
/ˈbaɡo/
The English phrase 'lazy bum' is translated into Spanish as vago.
The term refers to a person who is very lazy and avoids work. To say 'a lazy bum', you use the indefinite article un before the word vago.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The term vago is used informally to describe someone who is lazy or lacks ambition.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word vago changes its ending to vaga when referring to a female person. The plural form of vago is vagos when referring to a group of men or a mixed-gender group. The plural form of vago is vagas when referring to a group of women.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈbaɡo/
Did you know?
- The word vago shares a common ancestor with the English word 'vague'. Both originate from the Latin vagus, meaning 'wandering' or 'errant'.
- The word vago is a linguistic double agent. While it can mean 'lazy', it is also the exact same word used to describe something that is 'vague' or 'unclear'.
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, calling a friend a vago can be an affectionate tease rather than a mean insult.
Examples in context
- No seas un vago y busca un trabajo.Don't be a lazy bum and look for a job.
- Ese chico es un vago total.That guy is a total lazy bum.
- Mi hermano es un vago, nunca limpia nada.My brother is a lazy bum, he never cleans anything.
Example conversation
María and Mateo are talking about a friend who won't work.
- María¿Has visto a Luis últimamente?Have you seen Luis lately?
- MateoNo, él sigue siendo un vago.No, he is still a lazy bum.
- MaríaEs verdad, no quiere hacer nada.It's true, he doesn't want to do anything.
- MateoEs un problema para su familia.He is a problem for his family.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry vago, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries vago, CC BY-SA 4.0.
