menso
casual, Mexico
Mexicans say menso (a mild, casual word), tonto or idiota for a moron. Pendejo is very common in Mexico, but it is vulgar and offensive.
Meaning: an insult for a foolish person (noun)
Ways to say it
| Mexican | Note |
|---|---|
| menso | casual, Mexico |
| tonto | mild |
| idiota | strong |
| pendejo | vulgar, Mexico |
Among friends menso is playful, and ¡No seas menso! means "do not be silly!"
Which one should you use?
Tonto is the soft general word. Idiota is a real insult. Pendejo is much stronger and is not used with people you do not know well.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Foreign learners should avoid pendejo, because it can start a fight even when said as a joke.
Did you know?
- Pendejo is one of the best known Mexican insults, which is why many families do not let children use it.
Examples in context
- No seas menso.Do not be silly.
- Fue un tonto error.It was a silly mistake.
- Ese tipo es un idiota.That guy is an idiot.
Example conversation
Teen friends Ximena and Beto joke about a test in a school hallway.
- BetoOlvidé mi examen en casa.I forgot my test at home.
- Ximena¡Qué menso eres!You are so silly!
- BetoYa sé, ya sé.I know, I know.
