rata asquerosa
/rata askeɾosa/from spelling rules
The English phrase "you little rat" can be translated into Spanish as rata asquerosa.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, rata asquerosa translates to "disgusting rat".
How do you pronounce it?
/rata askeɾosa/
Did you know?
- Because rata is a feminine noun, you must use the feminine adjective asquerosa to match it, even if you are insulting a man.
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, calling someone a rata does not always imply they are 'disgusting', but often means they are stingy or a cheapskate.
- In certain regional slangs, calling someone a rata can specifically refer to a traitor or a 'snitch' rather than just a general insult.
Example conversation
Javier discovers that María stole his snack.
- Javier¿Te comiste mi pastel, rata asquerosa?Did you eat my cake, you little rat?
- MaríaSolo probé un trozo pequeño, Javier.I only tried a small piece, Javier.
- Javier¡Lo querías todo para ti!You wanted it all for yourself!
- MaríaLo siento, no volverá a pasar.I'm sorry, it won't happen again.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
