TOC
/ˈtok/
The English phrase OCD is translated as TOC in Spanish.
In Spanish, you must use the acronym TOC rather than the English acronym OCD.
What does it mean word for word?
TOC is an acronym for trastorno obsesivo-compulsivo, which means obsessive-compulsive disorder.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈtok/
Did you know?
- In casual Spanish conversation, TOC is often used as a slang adjective to describe someone who is simply very neat or picky, even if they do not have a medical diagnosis.
- The Spanish word compulsivo shares a Latin root with the English word 'compel', but in Spanish, it is more frequently used to describe impulse buying or eating.
- While English speakers often say 'I am so OCD', Spanish speakers are more likely to say Tengo TOC, which literally means 'I have TOC'.
Examples in context
- Tengo Trastorno Obsesivo-Compulsivo y me afecta especialmente con la limpieza. A veces tengo que lavarme las manos repetidamente para sentirme seguro/a.I have Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and it particularly affects me with cleanliness. Sometimes I have to wash my hands repeatedly to feel safe.
- El Trastorno Obsesivo-Compulsivo es una condición de salud mental que afecta a muchas personas. Se caracteriza por pensamientos obsesivos y comportamientos compulsivos. Es fundamental ser comprensivo/a y brindar apoyo a quienes lo experimentan.Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is a mental health condition that affects many people. It is characterized by obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. It is essential to be understanding and supportive of those who experience it.
- Él tiene TOC.He has OCD.
- El TOC puede ser muy difícil.OCD can be very difficult.
- Ella está estudiando sobre el TOC.She is studying about OCD.
Example conversation
Elena and Mateo are talking about their cleaning habits.
- ElenaMateo, ¿por qué limpias todo otra vez?Mateo, why are you cleaning everything again?
- MateoEs que mi TOC no me deja tranquilo.It is just that my OCD won't leave me alone.
- ElenaNo te preocupes, ya está muy limpio.Don't worry, it is already very clean.
- MateoLo sé, pero necesito que sea perfecto.I know, but I need it to be perfect.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry TOC, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
