When it comes to expressing the concept of being “very drunk” in Spanish, there are several phrases and expressions that can be used. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to convey this meaning, providing tips, examples, and even regional variations where applicable.
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions:
While Spanish has various formal terms related to alcohol consumption, there is no direct equivalent for the phrase “very drunk” in formal situations. However, we can provide alternative phrases that convey a similar meaning:
1. En estado de embriaguez:
This expression can be used to describe someone in a formal context who is “in a state of drunkenness.” For example:
Después de beber mucho vino, él se encontraba en estado de embriaguez.
After drinking a lot of wine, he was in a state of drunkenness.
2. Bajo los efectos del alcohol:
This phrase translates to “under the influence of alcohol,” emphasizing the influence rather than the degree of drunkenness:
No se permite conducir bajo los efectos del alcohol.
Driving under the influence of alcohol is not allowed.
Informal Expressions:
Informal Spanish offers a range of slang expressions that native speakers commonly use to describe being “very drunk.” Here are some frequently used phrases:
1. Estar borracho/a:
This is the most common and straightforward way to say “to be drunk” in Spanish:
Ayer salí de fiesta y terminé borracho/a.
Yesterday, I went out partying and ended up drunk.
2. Estar pedo/a:
This is a very informal way to express being “very drunk” and might be considered offensive in some situations:
No deberías conducir, estás pedo/a.
You shouldn’t drive, you’re wasted.
3. Estar mamado/a:
Used mainly in Mexico, this slang term refers to being “hammered” or “plastered” when talking about excessive alcohol consumption:
Después de la fiesta, estaba totalmente mamado/a.
After the party, I was completely hammered.
Regional Variations:
Spanish is spoken across many countries and regions, each with its unique vocabulary and expressions. Let’s explore some regional variations:
1. Estar curda/curado:
In Argentina, Uruguay, and parts of Chile, “estar curda” or “estar curado” is a common way to say “to be drunk”:
Después de beber tanto vino, ella estaba totalmente curda.
After drinking so much wine, she was completely drunk.
2. Estar piripi:
Used in some regions of Spain, particularly Andalusia, “estar piripi” means “to be tipsy” or “a little drunk”:
No sé qué pasó anoche, solo sé que me levanté piripi.
I don’t know what happened last night, I just know I woke up a little drunk.
Remember that regional variations can exist within countries and not all expressions might be universally understood. However, the phrases mentioned in the informal expressions section will generally be recognized and understood throughout the Spanish-speaking world.
Conclusion:
In Spanish, expressing being “very drunk” can be done formally by emphasizing the state of drunkenness or informally through slang expressions, which vary across regions. It’s essential to choose the appropriate expression based on the context and formality of the situation.
By using phrases like “en estado de embriaguez” or “bajo los efectos del alcohol,” you can convey the concept of being “very drunk” formally. For informal situations, phrases like “estar borracho/a,” “estar pedo/a,” or “estar mamado/a” will enable you to express the idea more colloquially.
Finally, when encountering regional variations, such as “estar curda/curado” in some South American countries or “estar piripi” in certain parts of Spain, you can adapt your vocabulary to enrich your communication with locals.
Remember to drink responsibly and use these phrases only for linguistic purposes or in cultural contexts where they are deemed appropriate. Salud!
