mentiroso
“mentiroso” means “lying” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
lying, untruthful
Also: deceitful
📝 In Action
Su excusa era tan mentirosa que nadie le creyó.
B1His excuse was so untruthful that nobody believed him.
El informe parecía mentiroso y lleno de errores.
B2The report seemed misleading and full of errors.
liar
Also: fibber
📝 In Action
¡No le creas! Es un mentiroso.
A1Don't believe him! He is a liar.
Mi hijo dijo que no era un mentiroso, pero tenía chocolate en la cara.
A2My son said he wasn't a liar, but he had chocolate on his face.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: mentiroso
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence correctly uses 'mentiroso' as an adjective?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from the Latin verb *mentiri*, which means 'to lie.' It is built upon the idea of inventing or fabricating something in the mind rather than reporting the truth.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I say 'little white lie'?
The common Spanish phrase for a 'little white lie' or a harmless untruth is 'una mentira piadosa' (literally, a pious lie or merciful lie).
Is 'mentiroso' very offensive?
It is a direct accusation, so it can be offensive, especially if used seriously. However, it can also be used playfully among close friends or family, depending on the tone.