algo malo
/alɡo malo/from spelling rules
In Spanish, 'something mean' is translated as algo malo.
algo malo is used to express the idea of 'something mean' when you are referring to a specific thing or an action. While it can also be translated as 'something bad' in a general sense, it is the standard way to describe a mean act or object.
Which one should you use?
If you want to emphasize that the 'something mean' is specifically heartless or lacks compassion, you can use algo cruel instead.
How does it change in a sentence?
Because algo is a neuter pronoun, the adjective must always remain in the masculine singular form. You should always use algo malo regardless of whether the implied subject is feminine.
How do you pronounce it?
/alɡo malo/
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid saying algo mala. Even if you are referring to something that is grammatically feminine, the adjective must remain in the masculine singular form malo to agree with the neuter pronoun algo.
Did you know?
- In some Spanish idioms, to have 'malas pulgas' literally means to have 'bad fleas' but it actually describes someone who is mean or grumpy.
- While algo malo describes a mean act, the word malo can be used ironically in some dialects to describe something that is 'wickedly' good, such as a delicious dessert.
- Spanish has a specific concept called malicia, which can mean 'mean-spiritedness' but in some regions it also refers to a clever, street-smart kind of cunning.
Examples in context
- ¡Qué feo(a) eres!You are so ugly!
- No sabes hacer nada bien.You can't do anything right.
- Eres completamente insignificante.You are utterly insignificant.
- Eres tan aburrido(a) y sin gracia.You are so boring and dull.
Example conversation
Sofía and Daniel are talking about a classmate.
- SofíaDaniel, no digas algo malo de Juan.Daniel, don't say something mean about Juan.
- DanielNo lo hice, solo estoy siendo honesto.I didn't, I'm just being honest.
- SofíaPero eso sonó como algo malo.But that sounded like something mean.
- DanielEstá bien, lo siento, Sofía.Okay, I'm sorry, Sofía.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
