tonto
mild, everyday
In Colombia stupid is tonto or bobo for a mild, everyday tone and estúpido for a stronger one. The feminine forms are tonta, boba and estúpida.
Meaning: lacking sense (adjective)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | Note |
|---|---|
| tonto | mild, everyday |
| bobo | mild, casual |
| estúpido | strong |
Tonto and bobo can even be teasing among friends. Estúpido is a real insult and can start an argument. Other words in Colombian Spanish are much stronger, so as a learner stay with the mild ones.
Did you know?
- Tonto and bobo are often used playfully with children.
Examples in context
- No seas tonto.Do not be silly.
- Fue una idea muy boba.It was a very silly idea.
- No me llames estúpido.Do not call me stupid.
Example conversation
Siblings joke around at home in Medellín.
- LauraSe me olvidaron las llaves.I forgot the keys.
- MateoQué boba eres.You are so silly.
- LauraNo te rías, ayúdame a entrar.Do not laugh, help me get in.
