tonto
mild, everyday
The mild everyday word for "stupid" in Peru is tonto, feminine tonta. Estúpido is stronger, and cojudo is a vulgar Peruvian word to avoid with strangers.
Meaning: foolish, silly (adjective)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | Note |
|---|---|
| tonto | mild, everyday |
| estúpido | strong |
| cojudo | vulgar, Peru |
No seas tonto is a light "don't be silly" between friends. Calling someone estúpido is an insult and can start a quarrel.
Which one should you use?
Cojudo is heard very often in Peru, but it is vulgar and fits only very close friends or anger. Learners should recognize it but not use it.
Did you know?
- In Spanish tonto also names a harmless clown-like fool and is often used as a gentle teasing word.
Examples in context
- No seas tonto, las llaves están aquí.Don't be silly, the keys are here.
- Fue una idea tonta.It was a silly idea.
Example conversation
Rafael forgets his keys and his sister Inés teases him at home in Lima.
- RafaelNo encuentro mis llaves.I cannot find my keys.
- InésNo seas tonto, están en tu bolsillo.Don't be silly, they are in your pocket.
- RafaelAh, es verdad. Gracias.Ah, true. Thanks.
