eres un mono
/eɾes un mono/from spelling rules
The English phrase "you are a monkey" is translated into Spanish as eres un mono.
This phrase is used as an insult to tell someone that they are foolish or behave in a silly way.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico, the word chango is also used.
How does it change in a sentence?
If using the formal Usted form, you would say Usted es un mono/una mona.
How do you pronounce it?
/eɾes un mono/
Did you know?
- While English speakers use 'monkey' to imply someone is silly, the Spanish word mono can also be a compliment meaning 'cute' or 'adorable' in many regions.
- The word mono actually traces its roots back to the Arabic word maymūn, which specifically referred to a 'baboon' or 'mandrill'.
- In Spain, the word mono can refer to a one-piece jumpsuit or coveralls.
Examples in context
- ¡Eres un chango!You are a monkey
- Deja de hacer ruidos, eres un mono.Stop making noises, you are a monkey.
Example conversation
Daniel is acting silly to make Elena laugh during lunch.
- Elena¡Daniel, deja de saltar por la cocina!Daniel, stop jumping around the kitchen!
- DanielSolo estoy jugando, Elena.I am just playing, Elena.
- Elena¡No es gracioso, eres un mono!It is not funny, you are a monkey!
- DanielEstá bien, me calmaré.Okay, I will calm down.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries eres, mono, un, CC BY-SA 4.0.
