Learning how to say “stern” in Spanish can be useful in various situations, whether you’re describing someone’s personality or an authoritative figure. In this guide, we will explore different ways to express “stern” in Spanish, both formally and informally. While Spanish is a widely spoken language with numerous regional variations, we will focus on the most common and widely understood terms. So, let’s dive in!
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Formal Ways to Say Stern in Spanish
If you need to convey the idea of “stern” in a formal context, the following terms are commonly used:
- Serio: This word carries the formality of “stern” and can refer to someone who is serious or stern in demeanor. For example, “Él es un profesor serio” translates to “He is a stern teacher.”
- Riguroso: This term emphasizes strictness and adherence to rules or principles. It is commonly used to describe someone who is stern due to their commitment to discipline or a strict code of conduct. For instance, “La jefa tiene reglas muy rigurosas” means “The boss has very stern rules.”
- Severo: Often used in professional or disciplinary contexts, “severo” conveys a strict or stern attitude. It can refer to someone who is harsh or demanding. For instance, “El párroco es conocido por su actitud severa” translates to “The priest is known for his stern attitude.”
Informal Ways to Say Stern in Spanish
When it comes to informal situations or casual conversations, Spanish offers some alternative terms to express “stern.” Here are a few commonly used expressions:
- Cabreado/a: Although it can be considered slightly informal, “cabreado/a” refers to someone who is angry or annoyed, which may result in them acting sternly. For example, “Mi padre estaba cabreado cuando llegué tarde” means “My father was stern when I arrived late.”
- Enojado/a: Comparable to “cabreado/a,” “enojado/a” also means angry. It’s often used in Latin American countries to describe someone who is stern or displeased. For instance, “El profesor estaba enojado con los estudiantes” translates to “The teacher was stern with the students.”
- Duro/a: Usually used to describe someone who is tough or strict, “duro/a” can be understood as a way to express the idea of being stern in an informal setting. For example, “El entrenador es duro pero justo” means “The coach is stern but fair.”
Examples of Usage
Él es un policía serio y muy riguroso con las reglas del tráfico.
Translation: He is a serious and very stern police officer when it comes to traffic rules.
Mi abuela tiene una mirada severa cuando no obedecemos.
Translation: My grandma has a stern look when we don’t obey.
Estaba cabreado porque no le habíamos avisado del cambio de planes.
Translation: He was stern because we hadn’t informed him about the change of plans.
El profesor estaba enojado y nos dio una tarea extra como castigo.
Translation: The teacher was stern and gave us an extra assignment as punishment.
Mi jefe es duro, pero eso motiva al equipo a dar lo mejor.
Translation: My boss is stern, but it motivates the team to give their best.
Regional Variations
Spanish is spoken across a wide range of countries, and regional variations can introduce different terms to express “stern.” While the previously mentioned terms are universally understood, here are some variations used in specific regions:
- Recio/a: Primarily used in parts of Mexico, “recio/a” can be employed to convey a stern or strict attitude.
- Apretado/a: Commonly used in parts of Central America, this term translates to “tight” but can also mean someone is stern or demanding.
- Severo/a: Though already mentioned earlier, it’s worth noting that “severo/a” is commonly used in Spain to express sternness.
Remember, these regional terms might not be familiar to everyone, so it’s advisable to stick to the more universally understood expressions when in doubt.
Now armed with various options, both formal and informal, you can confidently describe someone as “stern” in Spanish. Remember to adapt your language to the context and maintain a warm and respectful tone. Happy communicating!
