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engañoso

en-gahn-YOH-soheŋɡaˈɲoso

“engañoso” means “misleading” in Spanish (giving the wrong idea or impression).

misleading

Also: deceptive, tricky
General
A colorful storybook illustration of a shiny, bright red apple that, when turned slightly, reveals a hidden wormhole on the other side.

📝 In Action

Las apariencias son engañosas.

A2

Appearances are deceptive.

Ese anuncio de internet es muy engañoso.

B1

That internet ad is very misleading.

El examen tenía varias preguntas engañosas.

B2

The exam had several tricky questions.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • falso (false)
  • ilusorio (illusory)

Antonyms

Common Collocations

  • publicidad engañosa – false advertising
  • un camino engañoso – a tricky path
  • promesas engañosas – deceptive promises

Idioms & Expressions

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "engañoso" in Spanish:

misleading→tricky→

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: engañoso

Question 1 of 3

Which of these is the correct way to say 'The news is misleading' (noting 'las noticias' is feminine plural)?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
engañar(to deceive / to trick) — Verb
engaño(deceit / trickery) — Noun
desengaño(disillusionment / disappointment) — Noun
engañifa(swindle / trick) — Noun
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼

From the Spanish verb 'engañar' (to deceive), which traces back to Vulgar Latin roots meaning 'to mock' or 'to trick'.

First recorded: 13th century

Cognates (Related words)

Portuguese: enganoso

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between 'engañoso' and 'falso'?

'Falso' means something is completely untrue or fake. 'Engañoso' means something might have a bit of truth but is designed to lead you to the wrong conclusion.

Can I use 'engañoso' to describe a person?

Yes, but it's less common than using it for things. If you describe a person as 'engañoso', you are saying they have a deceptive nature or appearance.

How do I say 'trick question' in Spanish?

You can say 'una pregunta engañosa' or 'una pregunta con trampa'.