reina mezquina
/reina meθkina/from spelling rules
The English phrase "petty queen" is translated into Spanish as reina mezquina.
This phrase is used to describe a woman who is spiteful or who focuses on trivial grievances to make others feel inferior.
How do you pronounce it?
/reina meθkina/
Did you know?
- While mezquina describes a petty spirit, it is also the primary word used to describe someone who is stingy or cheap with money.
- Calling someone mezquino is often viewed as a deeper insult than calling them malo because it targets their lack of nobility and generosity.
- In certain social contexts, the word reina is used ironically to mock a woman who acts as if she is superior to others.
Example conversation
María and Javier are discussing a difficult coworker.
- MaríaJavier, ella siempre critica los detalles más pequeños.Javier, she always criticizes the smallest details.
- JavierSí, parece que quiere hacernos sentir mal.Yes, it seems like she wants to make us feel bad.
- MaríaEs una verdadera reina mezquina.She is a true petty queen.
- JavierTienes razón, mejor ignoremos sus comentarios.You are right, we should just ignore her comments.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
