Clarification the word "estupido" in Spanish
3
votes
Dear Sir:
I was always taught that the word "estupido" used as either an adjective or a noun was quite strong. I know some in the US who are born and raised here...who believe that it is used as in English. Can you clarify? I would rarely use this word with native speakers.
Thanks,s Kathy
1657 views
updated Mar 26, 2014
posted by anissia
2 Answers
2
votes
I am not a native speaker but I do live in Mexico. The word estupido does have a strong connotation and is seldom used to refer to a person. Ideas and actions, yes...people, no.
Necio is far more common as is imbécil. To me, in English, imbicile is much harsher than stupid. But every language is different.
Other words are tonto, bobo, etc.
updated Mar 26, 2014
edited by gringojrf
posted by gringojrf
About the same in CR. But tonto y loco are the most common and necio is being an **** not stupid. - 00551866, Mar 20, 2014
It blocked that? Well it should have put *** not ****. - 00551866, Mar 20, 2014
Mexico is highly influenced by the US. The word is not that strong in other countries. - DualG, Mar 26, 2014
2
votes
Not as strong as it's in English at all. Depending on context it can even be used in a friendly manner.
updated Mar 20, 2014
posted by DualG
In English I rank it from least offensive on up as: Stupid, Idiot, Imbecile. - gringojrf, Mar 20, 2014
