pobrecito
“pobrecito” means “poor thing” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
poor thing
Also: poor little guy, poor dear
📝 In Action
¡Pobrecito! Se le escapó el globo.
A1Poor thing! His balloon floated away.
El perro está temblando, pobrecito.
A2The dog is shaking, poor little guy.
Pobrecito Juan, tiene muchísima tarea hoy.
B1Poor Juan, he has so much homework today.
the poor guy
Also: the poor thing
📝 In Action
Al pobrecito no lo dejaron entrar.
A2They didn't let the poor guy in.
¿Viste al pobrecito que perdió su maleta?
B1Did you see the poor guy who lost his suitcase?
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: pobrecito
Question 1 of 1
If you see a child cry because they dropped their ice cream, what would you likely say?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Formed by the word 'pobre' (from the Latin 'pauper') and the diminutive suffix '-cito', which is used to show smallness or affection.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use 'pobrecito' for a woman?
No, for a woman or a girl, you should use 'pobrecita'. Spanish words change their endings to match the gender of the person you are talking about.
Is 'pobrecito' rude?
Usually, it is kind and sympathetic. However, if said with a specific tone of voice, it can be used sarcastically to tell someone they are being a 'crybaby'.