pasivo-agresivo
/pasiboaɡɾesibo/from spelling rules
The English phrase "passive aggressive" is translated into Spanish as pasivo-agresivo.
Used to describe someone who expresses negative feelings indirectly instead of stating them openly.
How do you pronounce it?
/pasiboaɡɾesibo/
Did you know?
- In certain Latin American dialects, someone being passive-aggressive might be described as 'hacer la ley del hielo', which translates to 'practicing the law of ice' and refers to the act of giving someone the silent treatment.
- The Spanish word agresivo can be a positive trait in business settings, where it is interpreted as being 'forceful' or 'determined'.
- Because of the high value placed on cortesía, certain behaviors that an English speaker labels 'passive-aggressive' may be perceived by Spanish speakers as merely being polite or conflict-avoidant.
Examples in context
- Está mostrando un comportamiento pasivo agresivo al no cumplir con lo solicitado.They are displaying passive aggressive behavior by not fulfilling the request.
- No me gusta su actitud pasivo-agresiva.I don't like his/her passive-aggressive attitude.
- No me gusta su comportamiento pasivo-agresivo.I don't like his passive-aggressive behavior.
- Ese comentario fue muy pasivo-agresivo.That comment was very passive-aggressive.
Example conversation
Javier and Lucía are discussing a coworker's behavior.
- JavierLucía, ¿viste el correo de Pedro?Lucía, did you see Pedro's email?
- LucíaSí, me parece que fue muy pasivo-agresivo.Yes, I think he was very passive-aggressive.
- JavierTienes razón, no dice lo que quiere claramente.You're right, he doesn't say what he wants clearly.
- LucíaEs cansado tratar con alguien así.It's tiring dealing with someone like that.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
