eres un vago
/eɾes un baɡo/from spelling rules
The English phrase "you're a bum" is translated into Spanish as eres un vago.
This phrase is used to tell someone that they are lazy and avoid working. You can use the intensified expression Eres un vago de cuidado to say "You're a real lazy bum."
Which one should you use?
While eres un vago is a common way to say this, you can also say eres un holgazán to mean "you're a loafer/bum", which carries a slightly more formal or literary tone. Additionally, ¡Eres un holgazán! can be used to mean "You're a slacker!"
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The phrase eres un vago is informal. Depending on your tone, it can be used as a lighthearted tease among friends or as a genuine insult.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase changes gender to match the person you are addressing: use eres una vaga if you are speaking to a woman.
How do you pronounce it?
/eɾes un baɡo/
Did you know?
Examples in context
- Cuando no cumples con tus deberes, das la impresión de ser un vago.When you don't fulfill your duties, you give the impression of being a lazy person.
- ¿Otra vez llegando tarde? Eres un holgazán.Late again? You're such a slacker.
- No busques trabajo, eres un vago.Don't look for a job, you're a bum.
- Si no ayudas en casa, eres un vago.If you don't help at home, you're a bum.
- Deja de dormir todo el día, eres un vago.Stop sleeping all day, you're a bum.
Example conversation
Elena is talking to Daniel about his chores.
- DanielDaniel, no has hecho nada hoy.Daniel, you haven't done anything today.
- ElenaSolo estoy descansando un poco.I'm just resting a bit.
- DanielSiempre dices lo mismo, eres un vago.You always say the same thing, you're a bum.
- ElenaEstá bien, voy a limpiar ahora.Alright, I'll clean now.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries eres, un, vago, CC BY-SA 4.0.
