alto
common
The standard word for tall is alto. The slang word is larguirucho, which describes a tall and thin person, usually with a friendly or teasing tone.
Meaning: tall person (adjective)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | Note |
|---|---|
| alto | common |
| Larguirucho | casual, slang |
Larguirucho suggests long limbs and a skinny build. It is used for people, not buildings or trees.
Which one should you use?
Use alto in neutral descriptions. Larguirucho is more playful and may sound unkind if said to a stranger.
Did you know?
- Larguirucho comes from largo, which also means "long".
Examples in context
- Mi primo es muy alto.My cousin is very tall.
- El nuevo es un larguirucho.The new guy is a lanky one.
- ¡Qué alto estás!How tall you are!
Example conversation
Ana meets her cousin after a year in Lima.
- Ana¡Qué alto estás, Mateo!How tall you are, Mateo!
- MateoCrecí diez centímetros.I grew ten centimeters.
- AnaYa eres un larguirucho.You are a real beanpole now.
