es cursi
/es kuɾsi/from spelling rules
The English phrase "something is cheesy" is translated into Spanish as es cursi.
The phrase es cursi is used to describe something that is overly sentimental, saccharine or cliché, similar to how English speakers use "cheesy" in a romantic or artistic context.
Which one should you use?
While the English word "cheesy" can sometimes refer to something being cheap or of low quality, es cursi focuses specifically on the quality of being overly sentimental or tacky.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Argentina, the adjective berreta is used to describe something that is cheap or cheesy, particularly when referring to poor quality. In Spain, the term cutre is often used to describe something that is tacky, cheap or cheesy.
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective cursi is invariable in gender, so it remains the same whether you are describing a masculine or feminine noun. To make the adjective plural to match a plural subject, add an 's' to get cursis.
How do you pronounce it?
/es kuɾsi/
Did you know?
- The word cursi originally meant 'elegant' or 'refined' in the 18th century, before it evolved to describe something that is 'tacky' or 'overly sentimental'.
- Depending on the tone, cursi can be used as a playful term of endearment between couples rather than as a genuine insult.
- In Argentina, the term berreta can be used to describe a 'cheesy' or low-budget production, but it can also imply that the item is fake or fraudulent.
Examples in context
- La película romántica era muy cursi.The romantic movie was very cheesy.
- El diseño del vestido es de mal gusto.The dress design is in bad taste.
- Esa película es muy cursi.That movie is very cheesy.
- Esa película es cursi.That movie is cheesy.
Example conversation
Sofía and Javier are talking about a greeting card.
- SofíaMira esta tarjeta, es muy linda.Look at this card, it's very cute.
- JavierNo sé, Sofía, es cursi.I don't know, Sofía, it's cheesy.
- Sofía¿De verdad piensas eso, Javier?Do you really think that, Javier?
- JavierSí, el mensaje es demasiado cursi.Yes, the message is too cheesy.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
