What does it mean word for word?
The word consentido means pampered or indulged. It is derived from the verb consentir, which means to allow, to indulge or to pamper.
Which one should you use?
There is a distinction between the various ways to express this idea. While consentido focuses on being overindulged with gifts or attention, malcriado focuses more on the resulting bad behavior and lack of manners. Additionally, using the verb ser in the form eres un consentido emphasizes that being spoiled is a permanent personality trait, whereas estás consentido treats it as a state. Finally, Estás malcriado/a is often used in a more playful or teasing manner to imply someone is acting entitled.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase must agree with the gender of the person you are addressing. Use estás consentido for a male and change it to estás consentida when addressing a female.
Did you know?
- The verb consentir is a linguistic relative of the English word 'consent', though in Spanish it has evolved to mean the act of indulging someone's whims.
- If you call a child malcriado, you are not just saying they are spoiled, but literally that they have been 'badly raised' or lack proper upbringing.
- While 'spoiled' in English often carries a negative connotation, the verb consentir can also describe a very affectionate, positive way of treating a loved one or a pet.
Examples in context
- Estás consentido/a, siempre consigues lo que quieres.You're spoiled, you always get what you want.
- Eres mimado/a, tus padres te consienten demasiado.You're spoiled, your parents spoil you too much.
- Estás malcriado/a, deberías aprender a valorar lo que tienes.You're spoiled, you should learn to appreciate what you have.
- No te quejes, sabes que estás consentido.Don't complain, you know you are spoiled.
Example conversation
Javier is complaining about the restaurant service.
- Sofía¡Javier, no seas tan exigente!Javier, don't be so demanding!
- JavierSolo quiero que todo sea perfecto.I just want everything to be perfect.
- SofíaLa verdad es que estás consentido.The truth is that you are spoiled.
- JavierTal vez tengas razón.Maybe you are right.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
