ratas
/RAH-tas (roll the R)/
rats
Ratas meaning 'rats' (small rodents).
📝 In Action
Vimos ratas corriendo por la basura en el callejón.
A1We saw rats running through the trash in the alley.
Las ratas son conocidas por ser muy inteligentes y adaptables.
A2Rats are known for being very intelligent and adaptable.
💡 Grammar Points
Feminine Plural
Even though 'ratas' can refer to a group of male and female animals, the word itself is always feminine (las ratas).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Gender Confusion
Mistake: "Using 'los ratas' instead of 'las ratas'."
Correction: Always use the feminine article 'las' because the singular noun 'rata' is feminine.
⭐ Usage Tips
Pronunciation Tip
Remember to strongly roll the 'R' sound at the beginning of the word, which is a key difference from the softer 'r' sound in the middle of words.
Ratas can also metaphorically mean 'scoundrels' or 'crooks'.
ratas(noun)
scoundrels
?despicable people, crooks
,jerks
?contemptuous term
thieves
?people who steal
📝 In Action
¡Esas ratas me robaron la billetera en el metro!
B2Those crooks stole my wallet on the subway!
No confíes en él; es una de esas ratas de la política.
C1Don't trust him; he's one of those political scoundrels (rats).
💡 Grammar Points
Insulting Both Genders
Even when referring to a group of men, 'ratas' remains feminine (las ratas), emphasizing the contemptuous nature of the insult.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Using 'Ratas' Too Casually
Mistake: "Using 'ratas' in a formal setting or with strangers."
Correction: This word is a strong insult or slang term for thieves/bad people. Use it only in very informal or angry contexts.
⭐ Usage Tips
Regional Variation
In some countries, 'rata' (singular) is a common, strong insult for someone who is cheap or a traitor.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: ratas
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'ratas' as a strong, negative description of people?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'ratas' only used for female rats, or can it refer to a mixed group?
Since 'rata' is a feminine noun, 'ratas' is the standard plural used for any group of rats, regardless of their gender. It functions like English 'mice' or 'sheep,' referring to the species.
How offensive is 'ratas' when used as an insult?
It is quite offensive and strong. It implies someone is dirty, treacherous, or a thief. You should generally avoid using it unless you are in a very angry or casual, joking context with close friends.