bromeas
“bromeas” means “you joke” in Spanish (Present tense, informal 'tú').
you joke, you are kiddingAlso: you tease
📝 In Action
¿Me bromeas? ¡No puedo creer que ganaste la lotería!
A2Are you kidding me? I can't believe you won the lottery!
Siempre bromeas sobre mi pelo, pero sé que lo dices con cariño.
B1You always joke about my hair, but I know you say it affectionately.
Si bromeas tanto, nadie te tomará en serio.
B1If you joke so much, no one will take you seriously.
Word Connections
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: bromeas
Question 1 of 1
If your friend tells you a wild story and you want to ask, 'Are you kidding me?', which phrase would you use?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family
📚 Etymology
The root is the Spanish noun 'broma,' which originally referred to a type of woodworm or boring insect. Over time, it developed the figurative meaning of 'teasing noise' or 'trick,' eventually leading to the creation of the verb 'bromear' (to make jokes).
First recorded: 17th century (for the modern meaning)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I say 'I am joking'?
You would use the 'yo' form of the verb, which is 'bromeo.' For example, 'Estoy bromeando' (I am joking right now) or 'Yo bromeo mucho' (I joke a lot).
When should I use 'bromear' versus 'chistear'?
'Bromear' is much more common and general; it means to kid around, tease, or joke. 'Chistear' specifically means to tell a joke (a short, funny story). You will use 'bromear' far more often in daily conversation.