monstruo
/MOHN-stroh/
monster
A common meaning of monstruo is a mythical creature or fictional monster.
monstruo(noun)
monster
?mythical creature, fictional character
,beast
?large, terrifying creature
hideous creature
?something deformed or physically frightening
📝 In Action
El monstruo marino tenía ojos rojos y dientes afilados.
A2The sea monster had red eyes and sharp teeth.
Pensaban que había un monstruo viviendo en el pantano.
B1They thought there was a monster living in the swamp.
💡 Grammar Points
Gender Note
Even though 'monstruo' ends in 'o', it can refer to a creature of any gender (male or female). You always use the masculine article: 'el monstruo'.
⭐ Usage Tips
Use for Deformity
This word is also used in a medical context to describe a severe deformity, so be mindful of the context when using it.
In Spanish, monstruo can also be used to describe a person who is a 'genius' or prodigiously skilled master.
monstruo(noun)
genius
?prodigiously skilled person
,fiend
?extremely cruel or evil person
whiz
?expert at something
,brute
?morally terrible person
📝 In Action
No puedo creer lo que toca; es un monstruo del piano.
B2I can't believe what he plays; he is a genius on the piano.
Su jefe es un monstruo que obliga a sus empleados a trabajar 70 horas a la semana.
B2His boss is a brute who forces his employees to work 70 hours a week.
Nuestra defensa fue un monstruo en el partido de hoy.
C1Our defense was monstrously good in today's game. (meaning: incredibly strong)
💡 Grammar Points
Using 'de'
When praising someone's skill, 'monstruo' is often followed by 'de' plus the activity: 'monstruo del ajedrez' (chess whiz).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Positive/Negative Context
Mistake: "Applying this meaning without clear context, confusing the listener whether you mean 'incredibly talented' or 'incredibly cruel.'"
Correction: Always pair it with a description of their action or field ('monstruo de la música,' 'monstruo de la avaricia') to clarify if you mean good or bad.
⭐ Usage Tips
Informal Praise
Using 'monstruo' to mean 'genius' or 'expert' is highly informal and affectionate. It's a strong compliment, reserved for casual conversation.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: monstruo
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'monstruo' to mean someone exceptionally skilled?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a female form, 'monstrua'?
Yes, 'monstrua' exists and is grammatically correct, but 'monstruo' is far more common and usually refers to both male and female monsters or creatures. 'Monstrua' is generally only used specifically to emphasize a female identity or in very formal/literal biological contexts.
Why is 'monstruo' used to mean both a scary creature and a genius?
The word is used metaphorically. In both cases, the person or thing is considered 'abnormal' or 'outside the ordinary.' If they are abnormal in skill (a 'prodigy'), it’s positive. If they are abnormal in morality (a 'fiend'), it’s negative.