tonto
common
The mild way to call someone stupid is tonto. Stronger slang depends on the country: boludo in Argentina, pendejo in Mexico and gilipollas in Spain.
Meaning: foolish, insult (adjective)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | Note |
|---|---|
| tonto | common |
| Boludo | Argentina, vulgar |
| Pendejo | Mexico, vulgar |
| Gilipollas | Spain, vulgar |
Tonto can even be playful. The other three are rude words, so use them only with people who are comfortable with that kind of language.
Which one should you use?
In Argentina boludo is often used among close friends as "dude", so the tone and the relationship decide whether it is an insult.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Do not call someone pendejo or gilipollas unless you are sure of the setting. In some countries these words are much more offensive than in others.
Did you know?
- In Argentina boludo is so common that friends often use it as a greeting.
Examples in context
- No seas tonto, claro que te quiero.Do not be silly, of course I love you.
- ¡Qué boludo que fui!How stupid I was!
- Fue una pendejada de mi parte.It was a stupid thing of me to do.
Example conversation
Hugo and Nacho laugh about a mistake in Buenos Aires.
- HugoMe olvidé las llaves adentro.I forgot my keys inside.
- Nacho¡Sos un boludo!You are an idiot!
- HugoSí, ya sé, ayudame a entrar.Yes, I know, help me get in.
