conflictivo
“conflictivo” means “troublesome” in Spanish (describing a person or group).
troublesome, problematic
Also: contentious, tough
📝 In Action
No quiero trabajar con él porque es un empleado muy conflictivo.
B1I don't want to work with him because he is a very troublesome employee.
Ese es un barrio conflictivo por la noche.
A2That is a tough/problematic neighborhood at night.
La reforma de la ley es un tema conflictivo en el parlamento.
B2The law reform is a contentious issue in parliament.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: conflictivo
Question 1 of 3
If you describe a neighbor as 'conflictivo', what are you saying?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'conflictus', meaning a collision or a clashing together. It shares the same root as the English word 'conflict'.
First recorded: 19th century (in its modern adjective form)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use 'conflictivo' to say I'm 'conflicted' about a choice?
No. In Spanish, 'conflictivo' describes something that causes external trouble. If you feel torn between two choices, use 'tengo un dilema' or 'estoy indeciso'.
Is 'conflictivo' a negative word?
Yes, it almost always carries a negative connotation, implying that the person or thing causes stress, arguments, or danger.
What is a 'barrio conflictivo'?
It is a neighborhood that might have high crime rates, social unrest, or where residents frequently clash with authorities.