este tipo
/este tipo/from spelling rules
In Spanish, 'this guy' is expressed as este tipo.
Este tipo is a casual way to refer to a man or a boy. Depending on the tone of voice used, it can range from a neutral description to being slightly derogatory. Additionally, when followed by the preposition 'de', the phrase este tipo de… can mean 'this type of [something]'. For a simple way to say 'guy' without the 'this', you can use chico.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of este (this) and tipo (type/kind), literally meaning 'this type' of person.
Which one should you use?
While este tipo is common, este sujeto is a more formal or clinical way to refer to a man, often used in police reports or news. To refer to a woman or girl in the same casual manner, you change the gender to esta tipa.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Este tipo is informal. If you need to be polite or formal, use este caballero to mean 'this gentleman'. Alternatively, esta persona serves as a formal way to refer to someone without specifying their gender.
How do you pronounce it?
/este tipo/
Did you know?
- The word tipo shares an ancient root with the Greek verb τύπτω, which means 'to strike' or 'to poke'. This suggests the original sense of a 'type' was a physical mark or impression left by a blow.
- If you use este tipo while pointing at someone, the gesture can make the phrase feel much more aggressive or dismissive than the English 'this guy'.
- While este tipo is a common way to say 'this guy', the word tipo may actually have roots in Quechua, an indigenous language of the Andes, rather than just Latin.
Examples in context
- ¡Ten cuidado, este tipo tiene licencia de disparar!Be careful, this guy has a shooting license!This example shows how to use este tipo to warn someone about a person's dangerous capability.Tatoeba #1406080 by marcelostockle, translation #1401890 by Eldad
- ¿Dónde va este tipo?Where is this guy going?This sentence uses este tipo to ask about a person's destination.Tatoeba #3534087 by Aether, translation #1414262 by CM
- Este tipo es realmente débil. No puede tomar una decisión para salvar su vida.This guy is really wishy-washy. He couldn't make a decision to save his life.This example uses este tipo to describe a person's indecisiveness.Tatoeba #854088 by princesamee, translation #31537 by CK
- Este tío siempre hace bromas.This guy always makes jokes.
- Mira a este chico.Look at this guy.
Example conversation
Javier and Elena are watching a street performer in a plaza.
- JavierMira a este tipo, ¡qué bien baila!Look at this guy, he dances so well!
- ElenaSí, tiene mucho talento.Yes, he has a lot of talent.
- JavierCreo que este tipo es profesional.I think this guy is a professional.
- ElenaSeguramente viaja por todo el mundo.He probably travels all over the world.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries este, tipo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
