demonio
/deh-MOH-nee-oh/
demon
In the context of an evil spirit, "demonio" translates directly to 'demon'.
📝 In Action
En la historia, el caballero luchó contra un demonio que custodiaba el castillo.
B1In the story, the knight fought against a demon that guarded the castle.
La figura del demonio es central en muchas religiones antiguas.
B2The figure of the devil is central in many ancient religions.
💡 Grammar Points
Masculine Noun Rule
Even though 'demonio' ends in '-o', remember that the word refers to both male and female demons, but the word itself is always masculine: 'el demonio'.
⭐ Usage Tips
Use in Stories
This meaning is often used in fantasy, horror, or historical religious contexts, similar to how we use 'demon' in English.
When referring to a mischievous child, "demonio" is used affectionately, meaning 'little devil'.
demonio(noun)
little devil
?mischievous, playful child
,force/dynamo
?highly energetic or powerful person
genius
?exceptionally brilliant person (less common)
📝 In Action
Mi hijo es un demonio, siempre está saltando sobre los muebles.
A2My son is a little devil; he is always jumping on the furniture.
Trabaja como un demonio para terminar el proyecto a tiempo.
B2He works like a demon (very hard) to finish the project on time.
¡Qué coche tan rápido! Va como un demonio.
C1What a fast car! It goes like a bat out of hell (very fast).
💡 Grammar Points
The 'Demonios' Expression
When used in questions like '¿Qué demonios dices?' (What the heck are you saying?), 'demonio' acts as an intensifier, showing annoyance or surprise, similar to saying 'hell' or 'heck' in English.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Literal Translation
Mistake: "Using 'demonio' in a formal setting just to mean 'very fast' or 'very hard.'"
Correction: Use this meaning only in informal or passionate conversations, as it is highly colloquial. In formal settings, use 'rápidamente' (quickly) or 'arduamente' (arduously).
⭐ Usage Tips
Positive/Negative Connotation
This meaning can be either positive (great energy, skill) or negative (mischievous, uncontrollable), depending entirely on the context and tone of voice.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: demonio
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'demonio' to describe exceptional speed or energy, not an evil spirit?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'demonio' have a feminine form, like 'demonia'?
No. Even if the evil spirit is female, the word itself is always masculine: 'el demonio.' You should never use 'demonia' in standard Spanish.
Is 'demonio' a very strong swear word?
While it relates to the devil, 'demonio' itself is not typically considered a severe curse word. However, using it in phrases like '¿Qué demonios...?' is informal and can be slightly rude or exasperated, similar to saying 'What the heck?' or 'What the hell?'