Cállate
/kaʝate/from spelling rules
The phrase "stfu up" in Spanish is translated as Cállate.
In an informal context, you can also use Déjame en paz. to convey the idea of wanting someone to be silent or to stop bothering you.
Which one should you use?
While Cállate is used with friends or people you address as tú, the form Cállese is the formal version used with people you address as usted. Additionally, Cállate la boca is a more aggressive or emphatic way to say 'shut up' compared to the standard Cállate.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Cállese is the formal version used with people you address as usted.
How does it change in a sentence?
Cállate is the imperative (command) form of the reflexive verb callarse used for the second person singular (tú).
How do you pronounce it?
/kaʝate/
Did you know?
- While Cállate is a command, people often use the phrase ¡Calla! to mean 'no way' or 'you're joking' when they are surprised by news.
- In many Latin American countries, if you want someone to stop talking about a specific topic, you might say No me digas más, which is a much gentler way to imply 'stop talking' than Cállate.
- The use of Cállese in a formal setting is an extremely rare and high-tension occurrence, as the formality of usted usually precludes such a blunt command.
Examples in context
- Cállate.Shut up.
- Déjame en paz.Leave me alone.
- Cállate de una vez.Shut up once and for all.
- Solo cállate y escucha.Just shut up and listen.
Example conversation
Two friends are arguing loudly in a library.
- Sofía¡Estás hablando demasiado fuerte!You are talking too loudly!
- AlejandroNo me importa.I don't care.
- Sofía¡Cállate, Alejandro!Shut up, Alejandro!
- AlejandroEstá bien, me callo.Fine, I'll be quiet.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
